The beloved Twin Donuts diner in Allston, set to close after 70 years.
Allston, Boston, prepares to say goodbye to Twin Donuts, an iconic diner closing after 70 years of operation. Amidst fond memories and nostalgia from the community, the diner will officially close on March 24. The Taing family has run the establishment since 2001, offering a menu beloved for its budget-friendly breakfast options. As changing circumstances led to its closure, Twin Donuts will forever remain a cherished landmark for many locals.
Allston, Boston is saying goodbye to one of its iconic landmarks, Twin Donuts, a cozy diner that has warmed hearts and filled stomachs for an impressive 70 years. Nestled at 501 Cambridge Street, this beloved eatery is set to close its doors for the final time on Sunday, March 23, with the official farewell happening the very next day, March 24.
Having opened its doors in 1955, Twin Donuts has been a constant in the lives of many in the Allston/Brighton community. Over the years, the diner has seen various ownership changes, with the Taing family taking the helm in 2001. The family, led by Chiang Sou Pang and her late husband, Leang Sim Taing, has continued the legacy built by previous owners, ensuring that the diner remains a cherished spot for locals.
Initially known for its delicious doughnuts and pastries, the Taing family’s influence transformed the diner into a hotspot that offered a full breakfast menu. This shift brought in local customers and college students alike, drawn in by the irresistible charm of budget-friendly breakfast combos. Items like pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, corned beef hash, and home fries were once sold for under $10, making it a go-to breakfast spot that fit perfectly into any budget.
But as the years rolled on, Twin Donuts faced challenges that ultimately led to its closure. The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role, alongside rising food costs and the gentrification affecting the Allston area. As the community changed, so did the diner’s customer base, which Catherine Taing noted had shifted away from the local “hippie-punk crowd” due to increasing rents pushing regulars out. The familiar faces that once filled the booths began to dwindle, a stark change that quietly echoed through the diner.
Recognized as a local landmark, even with its impending closure, Twin Donuts holds a special place in the hearts of many. It’s not just a diner; it has served as a point of reference for directions in the neighborhood, a gathering place for friends, and a comforting stop on chilly mornings. The outpouring of sadness and nostalgia on social media platforms reflects just how much the diner meant to the community, with many locals sharing sweet memories and favorite meals over the years.
Although Twin Donuts will be closing, the Taing family will continue to serve the community through their other establishments. Cafe Mirror and The Brighton Cafe, both situated within a mile of the diner, are set to remain open and will carry on the Taing family tradition of providing delicious food in a friendly atmosphere.
In its final days, Twin Donuts will continue to operate daily from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., welcoming patrons one last time before the doors close for good. Anyone who has ever enjoyed a meal at Twin Donuts knows it’s more than just a diner—it’s a piece of history and a home away from home for so many in Allston. As the community prepares to say goodbye, it’s safe to say that Twin Donuts will always be remembered for the joy it brought into the lives of those who walked through its doors.
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