Julie Darling Donuts Prepares to Reopen Under New Local Ownership

Chattanooga’s North Shore doughnut shop is getting a refreshed look while keeping the recipes that made it a neighborhood favorite

Charmain Pieterse News Writer
Julie Darling Donuts is refreshing its North Shore storefront under new local ownership while keeping its beloved doughnut recipes (Image credit: Julie Darling Donuts)

Julie Darling Donuts is preparing to welcome customers back to its North Shore storefront at 121 Frazier Avenue in Chattanooga, Tennessee, following a change in ownership and renovations to the longtime doughnut shop. A recent Instagram announcement from the business introduced a new local owner, Cassie Burke, and a refresh of the space and branding ahead of its anticipated reopening.

The transition marks a new chapter for the business, which previously operated under the Kuenzli family. The former owners announced their departure after 16 years, bringing an end to their involvement in the neighborhood bakery. The Chattanooga Times Free Press reported that Burke intends to continue operating from the existing location, with renovations underway before the shop’s return.

According to Burke’s Instagram announcement, customers can expect the familiar doughnut recipes to remain part of the experience. The updates will instead focus on the appearance of the shop, its branding and preparations for a new team. The business is documenting the transition through renovations, staff training and preparations for its first fresh batches under the new ownership.

Julie Darling Donuts has built its reputation around freshly made doughnuts and an inventive selection of flavors. Its official website describes a business founded in Chattanooga in 2009 by entrepreneur Kent Davis, who began experimenting with homemade doughnuts before introducing them to the local community. The shop’s original approach centered on making fresh products daily while continually developing new flavors.

The website also highlights its coffee offerings, including drip coffee, lattes and cappuccinos made with locally roasted coffee from Mad Priest Coffee. Its doughnut selection has featured creative varieties such as blueberry, chocolate, Oreo, pancakes and bacon, along with filled options and rotating specialties.

Burke is now preparing to carry that established identity forward while giving the North Shore business a refreshed appearance. The Instagram announcement describes the reopening as coming soon, with the team inviting Chattanooga customers to follow along as the transformation progresses.

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I am a South Africa-based reporter for WhatNow Media Group covering restaurant and retail openings in Charlotte and Nashville. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Languages, specializing in Journalism, from the University of Pretoria, and bring 20 years of industry experience to my work. My reporting focuses on pre-opening developments, new concepts, and the people behind the businesses shaping local communities. I enjoy connecting with hospitality and retail professionals, learning their stories and sharing their insights, passions, and growth with readers. When I’m not reporting, I’m always interested in discovering the next business, concept, or story worth telling.
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