In a bittersweet turn for the Allston community, Twin Donuts, a beloved breakfast landmark, has announced its closure after serving local patrons for decades. The Taing family has been at the helm of this iconic establishment for the past 25 years, but rising operational costs have deemed it unsustainable to continue. Many residents who have frequented Twin Donuts recall fond memories associated with the shop, which has seen them from sunup to sundown.
The last day for Twin Donuts will be March 23, 2025, marking the end of an era for many who grew up near the landmark. Following an announcement made on an Allston-Brighton Facebook group, Boston.com confirmed the closure details with an employee who cited escalating prices as the primary reason for shutting down. This closure resonates deeply with long-time patrons who visited the shop for its comforting offerings.
For Rae, a former Allston resident, memories of late-night gatherings at Ringer Park, where they would savor a plain bagel with cream cheese and coffee from Twin Donuts as the sun rose, represent more than just food. “Staying up all night at Ringer Park, sitting on the rock watching the sun rise, and then having a plain bagel with cream cheese and coffee at Twin Donuts. The bagel was the motivation not to fall asleep,” Rae reminisced.
Many community members expressed their sorrow at the impending closure. John N. lamented, “I take my daughter there for breakfast twice a month. It’s been our routine for a couple of years now. Twin Donuts has been a staple in the neighborhood. I really hope it’s not replaced with another apartment/condo building.” His sentiments reflect a wider concern regarding the gentrification of Allston and its shift from a quaint, community-oriented area to one dominated by redevelopment.
Brian, another long-time patron, echoed John’s concerns, stating that, “Allston used to be full of anti-establishment types who would frequent a family-owned business like this. Now, Allston is full of yuppies and rich kids. It’s not the same. RIP to Twin Donuts and the Allston way of life that made the neighborhood unique.” This passing of the shop serves as a symbol of the changing face of Allston, as beloved establishments continue to fall victim to rampant development.
Longtime customers have shared their favorite items from Twin Donuts, emphasizing what they will miss most. Lawrence C., who has been a customer since 1968, declared, “The donuts are the best anywhere. Very sad.” His nostalgia speaks to the donut shop's longstanding reputation for quality. Meanwhile, Gwen K. fondly recalls childhood Sundays after church, “When Mom and Dad would let you get TWO! Twin Donuts has always evoked those great memories of being covered with white powder and jelly down your dress, but a smile stretching from ear to ear.”
As visitors prepare for the shop's final days, Meag, a former visitor who now resides in Medfield, expressed their determination to return for a last indulgence: “We will definitely make one last visit before it closes. So sad to hear it’s closing; it is truly an Allston/Brighton gem!”
Several former patrons reminisced about their loyalty to Twin Donuts over the years. Declan P., who worked nearby, highlighted how important the shop was to local teachers, revealing, “I was a teacher at the Jackson Mann middle school for a few years before the pandemic. I was there every day getting a tea/donut or a breakfast. At times in the afternoon, they would give me their leftover donuts for the day.” Declan’s connection with the shop and its staff showcases the warmth and community spirit fostered within its walls.
Kelly B. shared similar memories, valuing the accessibility of Twin Donuts during her time in Allston. “I worked in Allston for a few years and would stop at Twin Donuts at least twice a week for a glazed treat. An icon that will be deeply missed, for sure!” Her remarks highlight the neighborhood aspect that Twin Donuts cultivated throughout its operations.
Beyond the memories of food, patrons expressed a desire to preserve Twin Donuts' iconic sign. Susan B. proposed saving the sign as a way to honor the shop: “Saving the Twin Donuts sign would honor a local landmark that served this community for decades.” Her suggestion signals a hope for maintaining a link to the community history amidst its rapid change.
As the March 23 closing date approaches, many worry about what will replace the shop and how Allston may further transform in the future. John T., a former customer, captured the community’s sentiment perfectly: “God forbid they put triangular shaped luxury apartments in its footprint.” His humor reflects the tension between preserving community landmarks and the pressures of urban redevelopment.
Twin Donuts has not only been a favorite for its food but has embodied the local charm that has drawn people together over the years. The closure resonates with deep significance, highlighting the community's nostalgia and the changes that threaten to alter the fabric of Allston forever. As residents say their goodbyes, they do so knowing that the memories created at Twin Donuts will linger on long after its doors close.
