It’s a new dessert that’s been all over social media, and now mochi donuts can be found in Grand Rapids.
“We’ve been selling out all week," said Yang Hang, partner and social media manager at Rak Thai. "There’s very few stores in the Midwest that have mochi donuts, we’re the first in West Michigan for sure.”
Hang explained the restaurant's new sweet treat, which feature notes from both Asian and American cuisine is an exciting way to share cultures through food.
“It's like a cross between two cultures...We’ve got one that’s caramel churro so it’s like three cultures, you know?" he laughed.
Mochi donuts are similar to a Japanese rice cake, with frosted toppings that give it the feel of an American donut.
“It’s 8 unique rings that hook to each other but on the inside its very soft and chewy. Chewy but not chewy like gum chewy...springy," Yang explained.
He jokes it’s a good stepping stone for those looking to diversify their palates.
"If we were to do just the mochi here people may be like 'uhh that’s not a taste we’re used to,' but when you add the American toppings, it’s like 'this is something I wanna try.'"
Hang's team has been showcasing the donuts for about a week, selling out each day. He said he hopes the crowds will continue to draw into his space and others' in the Downtown Market, citing the hard hit restaurants have taken during the pandemic.
