Indianapolis foodies have a reason to smile, as a new doughnut shop is now open in Fountain Square.
Rocket 88 opened its doors at 847 Virginia Avenue, bringing the popular pastry to residents.
Though the store is competing in a field crowded with similar shops, Patrick Burtch, the owner, says that approximately 90% of everything that goes into Rocket 88's doughnuts is organic, local, and natural. Among the creations turned out by the baker, Rachel Layne, are scratch-made fried yeast doughnuts topped with glazes like chocolate ganache. This is a dark chocolate coating topped with crumbled, crunchy bacon bits supplied by another Indianapolis company, Smoking Goose. The apple fritters are baked using New Day Craft's cider. Other flavors include vanilla chai and brown-butter pumpkin. There are also gluten-free and vegan options on the menu.
Burtch and Layne met via mutual friends, and have been working on the menu for Rocket 88 for approximately 12 months. Burtch is a former high school instructor, and Layne graduated from The Chef's Academy. Burtch, a music enthusiast, named Rocket 88 after a rhythm and blues song released in 1951. Some music experts believe it may be the first rock 'n' roll number ever recorded.
Burtch could work with a flyer printing company to create a handout for distribution outside the shop as he works to increase his clientele.
