Joe’s Doughs suddenly closes for good on North Davidson Street on Dec. 3

Joe’s Doughs announced on Facebook on Dec. 1 that this weekend would be their last in business. They will close their doors for good on Sunday, Dec. 3.

Joseph Pepe, who launched Joe’s Doughs in Charlotte in October 2014 as a series of pop-up doughnut shops with the help of his wife, Jen, wrote on Facebook:

“To be honest, this business just wasn’t working with the partners that I brought on. I wish there was a more romantic story but it’s the truth. We dove into the deep end and tried our best. But in the end some partnerships just aren’t made to last.”

In June 2016, the business celebrated the grand opening of its first permanent storefront at 1721 North Davidson St. Unit B., next to Abari Game Bar. The aim: To start producing 1,000 doughnuts a day in the sparkling, new, professional kitchen.

At the time of the grand opening, Pepe had actually moved to Los Angeles to play keyboard and bass with his band, SLEEPLUST. His plan was to make regular trips back to Charlotte, while continuing to be active with recipe and menu development, but leaving the daily operations in the hands of business partners.

Joe’s Doughs on opening day

By 9:30 a.m. on grand opening day, Joe’s Doughs had already sold out of the 1,200 doughnuts they made that morning.

Our then-interns were particularly obsessed with the maple bacon, everything and salted caramel flavors.

In his Dec. 1 Facebook post, Pepe wrote that the closure of the store saddens him.

“My wife, Jen, and I started this business in our kitchen with the mission to serve our unique ideas on donuts to everyone in Charlotte,” he wrote. “And with your help we did just that. Everyone involved put in their hard work, sweat, tears and too many early morning and late nights to count. I am grateful.”

He gave a shout out to his general managers Jasmine and Jaclyn.

And he ended on a high note:

“So now what? Well let’s blow it out this weekend with one last big sale! After that it is on to bigger and better things. I hold my head up high knowing we brought smiles to so many faces. Thank you all for the support and the distinct opportunity to serve you.”

Photos: Rachel Stone and Jane Little

This story was originally published December 3, 2017 at 5:20 AM with the headline "Joe’s Doughs suddenly closes for good on North Davidson Street on Dec. 3."