Thursday, August 25, 2011

New Restaurant Opening: Fonuts Reinvents the Doughnut


First, it was cupcakes (hello Sprinkles). Then, frozen yogurt (a Pinkberry on every corner). Are doughnuts the next big food craze to hit Los Angeles?


Fonuts, a modern take on the traditional doughnut and coffee shop, opened its doors on 3rd Street last week for the very first time.

Pastry Chef Waylynn Lucas and Nancy Truman

The brainchild of Pastry Chef Waylynn Lucas (The Bazaar by Jose Andres; Patina) and partner Nancy Truman, Fonuts features more than a dozen varieties of fonuts, which are baked, not fried like a traditional doughnut. Furthering their health consciousness, Fonuts offers gluten-free and vegan versions of this baked treat.

Strawberry

At the opening party, I had opportunity to sample a variety of their signature flavors (along with foodie turned blogger extraordinaire Jo of My Last Bite). We both proclaimed our preference for savory treats and honed in on the Chorizo & Chedder, Rosemary Olive Oil, and Maple Bacon flavors.

Chorizo & Cheddar

The Chorizo & Chedder reminded me of a dinner roll, crusted with tons of yellow cheese, and the inside studded with sweet-tasting chorizo.

Rosemary Olive Oil

Meanwhile, the Rosemary Olive Oil was reminiscent of the cake of the same name, with powdered olive oil coating the exterior in place of traditional powdered sugar.

Maple Bacon
The Maple Bacon seized on the classic breakfast flavors of maple syrup and bacon, with a healthy amount of crumbled bacon lodged in the icing. 


After noshing on my fill of Fonuts (it was five in the afternoon, and I'd had three at least), I tucked a few in my purse for my husband, a self-proclaimed doughnut expert. Since he prefers the sweeter side of life, I brought him a little Peanut Butter & Jelly pastry and Strawberry and Chocolate Hazelnut Fonuts.

Chocolate Hazelnut

His verdict? He scarfed them down, however, I can't be certain if he's ready to give up the deep fried version for these healthier counterparts. Yet...

In addition to their regular menu, Fonuts plans to offer limited edition, seasonal-inspired flavors. Upcoming fall and holiday selections will include Pumpkin-Squash, Ginger, and Chocolate Peppermint. Accompanying the baked goods, Fonuts also offers premium coffees from cult coffee brand LAMILL.

Only time will tell if healthier doughnuts really will be the next big food trend. However, if Fonuts is any indication, it just might be.

Fonuts, open Wednesday through Monday from 7:00am to 6:00pm, is located at 8104 West 3rd Street in Los Angeles. Call 323.592.3075 or visit www.fonuts.com.

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