WeirdDoughs is a unique bagel and coffee shop with a rich history in the town of Warrenton. Originally opening in a small storefront on Comfort Inn Drive in March 2021, the bakery later relocated and is currently situated in Old Town on 12 Culpeper Street. This change occurred in August of 2024.
The move to the destination has also led to a change in the business’s popularity. The farmer’s market is a contributor to WeirdDough’s patronage, causing a dilemma, as it is only held on Saturday mornings. “Weekends are very busy for us… We’re kind of packed for those couple of hours, but the rest of the time it can be a little bit slow because we’re a little bit off the beaten path,” explained the owner, Danielle Grimes.
Grimes is proud of her social media presence, even stating that some of her favorite feedback from customers is the positive attention regarding her posts. “The number one feedback that I get is probably about social media,” said Grimes. On behalf of the business, Grimes often says “exactly what she thinks.” Grimes’s authentic and witty personality is a source of traffic for the business.
WeirdDoughs has a vast and diverse menu, consisting of everything from chai lattes to burrito bowls. Considering this, it is hard to pick a favorite, especially as a staff member. “[The] burrito bowl [is my favorite] because it’s fun to make the eggs… and it’s good to eat,” stated employee Ryder Cupka, a freshman at Fauquier High School (FHS).
The creation of “WeirdDoughs” has a unique start. Before beginning the endeavor in the bakery business, Grimes noted, “I love to cook, but I don’t like to bake.” Due to COVID-19, Grimes lost her primary source of income. Around the same time, she complained of not being able to find a bagel she enjoyed eating. This inspired Grimes to make her own bagels. Grimes’s son persuaded her to open a shop. “And so… here I am four years later,” exclaimed Grimes.
Recently, the storefront of WeirdDoughs was officially acquired and owned by the business. In the past, they have had to share it with another business and trade off during the late afternoons. Due to this, the bakery owners have been working on developing a concept for a new after-hours mocktail bar.
“WeirdDoughs After Dark” is in support of the sober-curious movement and hopes to be open by October of 2025. This concept also targets the demographic of underage townsfolk, offering them a casual hangout spot with creative drinks and food. “[If] you want a place to come and have food and some drinks, but not alcohol, you have a place now too,” Grimes told enthusiastically.
WeirdDoughs is a quirky and amazing Bagel & Brew store. The business has already achieved great success and has exciting plans for the near future. The town of Warrenton looks forward to seeing what the future of WeirdDoughs has to offer.
