Coachella Valley’s first Dunkin’ Donuts opens

The first Dunkin’ Donuts location in the Coachella Valley opened Tuesday to much fanfare from local residents. People lined up at the door or the drive-thru to get their first taste of the East Coast and Midwest staple.

There were people that waited since Monday night in order to get a shot to win a $250 gift card that was given to the very first customer at the door and at the drive-thru. The mascot of Dunkin’ Donuts, Chippy greeted guests as they got to sample drinks from the menu.

One visitor, Daniel Debonis of Palm Springs, said he had waited for eight years in the desert for a location to open up. He said the donut chain reminded of his roots in Boston.

“I’ve been looking forward to Dunkin Donuts the whole time I’ve been in the desert so it’s about time they got one out here,” he said. “I enjoyed my first chocolate glazed donut of probably many more, so it’s awesome.”

This franchise location is owned by Nachhattar Chandi of Chandi Group USA. Chandi said he was pleased to have location open and help grow the local economy.

“One of the things I loved about this first opening is that it created 95 jobs,” he said. “I was even surprised myself. This could create 95 jobs to our community here.”

Chandi said he had plans in the future to bring more locations in the Valley.

The Indio Dunkin’ Donuts is located at 42-225 Jackson St.