I am giving this location a 3 star only because on one hand, the service was good, but for the simple fact that the "Made Fresh, Served Hot" sign was on, this location DOES NOT make their own donuts. Although the sign is not lying, the iconic sign that Krisy Kreme is known for (you don't even need to know how to read) when you see that light on, you know you want to do a 180 and turn in to get that freshly made, warm, melt-in-your-mouth donut and forget about all that goodness going straight to your hips because it's. just. so. dang. good.
It has been a long time since I have been in an actual retail location. I am used to seeing the donuts boxed in a grocery store or gas station. Today, though, we were shopping at the Tanger Outlets in Pooler and it was cold and wet from all the rain and when my family and I saw that light on, we were like (picture Homer Simpson)...mmmm....donuts.
Parking - located in the Tanger Outlets in Pooler, Center parking.
Vibe - Well, the small store should have been an indication, that they don't make their own donuts, but you never know, they might have all that machinery in the back? A girl can only dream. The location seems pretty new. It was nice and modern and pretty clean looking. Only a few tables, so very limited seating. Plan to eat and walk.
Service - There were only 2 employees at the time we walked in. The girl at the cash was very cheerful and was very nice. I asked about the donuts and she informed me that the donuts had been brought in this morning from another location. I guess that's as fresh as this store can get them. I asked why the sign was on and she said that it was directions from HQ that the sign must be on at all times. Well, HQ, as a customer, this, I think is mis-leading. On the bright side, I am assuming to make up for this fact, they do have a large oven contraption to reheat all the sugary goodies.
What we ate - I tried to order the S'mores Hot Chocolate, but she said they ran out of all the specialty Hot Chocolates and only had the plain, which I ordered. I was happy to find out that they made them with real milk. I'm a Hot Chocolate snob and refuse to drink Hot Chocolate made out of water. My daughter ordered the Plaid Holiday donut (it is basically an Original glazed with frosting in a Plaid pattern). We requested it warmed up and although it was still pretty good, it all just melts, frosting included and it gets pretty messy. I think you still can't beat when they are freshly made! I know, I know...trying to let it gooooooooo!
All in all, it seems to have everything a regular Kripsy Kreme has, a large variety of donuts as well as their specialty drinks. Although, not sure how they will make it through until Tuesday. The girl at the cash said that they got slammed yesterday and their milk supply (and seems like their specialty Hot Chocolate supply) won't come in til Tuesday! It was already filling up as we were leaving.
If you want a sugar rush, this definitely is the place! read more