I usually can be a little tougher reviewing big name chain businesses simply because the level of customer service that is involved. Considering there are over 11,000 "Dunkin Donuts" locations nationwide, this one in Folsom is no exception. It is the 2nd location to open in the greater Sacramento area since 2015 as they try to put a dent into already well-known fan favorite places such as Starbucks & Dutch Bros.
Located on the corner where Greenback Lane and Madison Ave meet at the Folsom/Orangevale border, this "Dunkin Donuts" opened its doors in April 2016. What sets them apart from the rest is that they carry a very impressive amount of breakfast sandwiches, coffee/espresso beverages, pastries, and of course, donuts. Since I am very fond of their locations on the east coast (which are literally on every block), I am not one to be super enthusiastic about them opening more locations in California.
I had come here on a Sunday morning around 11:45am with my lady as we decided to fuel up on caffeine and carbs to start our day. Since this was our first time, the parking lot is rather spacious. There is also a drive-thru lane that provides enough space to go around for the people who who wish to stay in the vehicles. The inside is also lively, spacious, and has some modern touches such as a flatscreen TV and plush leather chairs. And there is also free Wi-Fi as well!
As we glanced on the digital menu board, I decided on trying their "Bacon Wake-Up Wrap" (for $1.69), a side of "Oven Toasted Hash Browns" (for 99¢), and a "Plain Croissant" (for 89¢). To drink, I chose on abandoning a coffee drink and opted for a 12 oz. size of their "Tropical Mango Smoothie" (for $1.99). My lady decided on their "Ham, Egg, & Cheese" breakfast sandwich (for $3.49) with hash browns and an Iced Vanilla Latte.
Now here is the reason for why this place is only 3-stars. The ordering system is very confusing. Since we dined in, they did mention the name of our breakfast items. However, they did not use an 'order number' and/or 'name' which confuses things even more. Many of the customers didn't even know if they were picking up the right item. Additionally, the woman who took my order couldn't even find the croissant on her touchscreen register and had to ask one of the supervisors to take over.
When we did get all of our items, everything came out sporadically. Basically, the food items came out a good 5 minutes before our drinks arrived. And since I was already familiar with eating at several Dunkin Donuts in the past, the breakfast items were just so-so. My bacon wake-up wrap was small but tasted much like something you'd find at a 7-11. The hash brown nuggets were surprisingly good but they just don't give you very many for 99¢. And my mango smoothie was refreshing but a bit on the sweet sugary side. The iced vanilla latte that my lady ordered was decent but like my smoothie, it was very sweet.
All in all, this is a decent Dunkin Donuts location. Business was thriving around midday but its really hard to say if they will conquer the coffee/pastry business in an already crowded and competitive market. The food is predictable while the donuts are forgettable (and far less tasty than your mom and pop donut shop). So only time will tell if this Folsom location will withstand the test of time. read more