In True Boston Form, Dunkin’ Donuts Stays Open During Lockdown

Despite the chaos and tension of the Boston lockdown, leaving city streets deserted and all mass transit suspended, Dunkin’ Donuts remains determined to stay open and serve officers and first responders free of charge.

“There was an automated message going around telling businesses to close, but because we’re Dunkin’ Donuts, we called the police department and they said we didn’t have to [close],” Jessica Cadorette, manager at a Dunkin’ Donuts in Newton, Mass., informed BuzzFeed.

@indiana_jojo Our Watertown restaurant is open to serve first responders & law enforcement w/ free coffee & product. ^JG

— Dunkin’ Donuts (@DunkinDonuts) April 19, 2013

Needless to say, DD’s efforts during these times made a huge impact on Bostonians and sent the message that the Boston spirit remained stronger than ever.

Literally the most Boston thing I’ve ever heard. Authorities ask Dunkin Donuts to remain open during lockdown.

— Only In Boston (@OnlyInBOS) April 19, 2013

CLUTCH. “@dunkindonuts: Our Watertown restaurant is open to serve first responders & law enforcement w/ free coffee & product.”

— kimmie (@telooweimmik) April 19, 2013

Know who’s allowed to stay open in Boston right now? Dunkin Donuts. Police gave them special permission.#GodIloveboston

— Jimmy Mosca (@jimmy_mosca) April 19, 2013

All of Boston on lockdown… Except for @dunkindonuts they were open all day. #BostonStrong#dunkinstrong just serving the people and cops

— Benjamin Johnson (@BeeJ0221) April 19, 2013

Over the years, Dunkin’ Donuts has become an essential symbol to the city of Boston — surpassing its image as a mere coffee and donut joint. As Paul McMorrow of Esquire, explains:

It’s less a coffee shop than a marker of local solidarity. It’s an expression of shared heritage that bridges the petty ethnic, regional and class tribalism that normally dominates Boston. A large regular is a large regular, whether you’re in Dorchester or Chelsea or Wellesley. The thing that unites us is mediocre coffee.

Here’s to you, Boston.

H/T Huffpo, Esquire + PicThx Instagram