The Real Story Behind Bismarck-Mandan’s Bearscat Bakehouse
Bearscat Bakehouse is the go-to donut shop in Bismarck-Mandan. We know they have delicious maple bacon long johns, but we don't know the full Bearscat story. It's time to find out.
Bearscat Bakehouse quickly became a hot spot for donut lovers in Bismarck-Mandan with its creative flavors, fun designs, friendly staff and fresh donuts.
Kevin Cavanagh, the owner of Bearscat Bakehouse in Bismarck and Mandan, was tired of working for corporate companies.
I wanted to do something on my own. I was tired of working for corporations. I wanted to do something different, something fun.
If you've been a longtime resident of Bismarck or Mandan, you probably remember The Donut Hole. Cavanagh bought out the old donut shop and transformed it into the hip and creative place it is today. The Bismarck store's success brought a new Bearscat Bakehouse location to Mandan on December 9th, 2015.
So, what about a third Bearscat Bakehouse location? It's a definite possibility.
Any future locations will need to be able to have a drive thru. I think that will help us be even more convenient.
We asked Cavanagh a few questions to get to know him, the story behind the infamous donuts and the whole Bearscat family a little better.
What makes your donuts and products so unique?
KEVIN CAVANAGH: We are always trying to come up with new flavors. We get ideas from employees and customers. We make our donuts fresh throughout the day so you are getting a fresher donut than most places.
Where did you come up with the name 'Bearscat?'
KC: I found an old cowboy dictionary. It said bearscat was a cowboy term for donuts. I loved the sound of it. It took me 2 years to talk my wife into naming it that.
How would you describe your customer?
KC: We think buying and eating donuts should be fun. Our customers are the same. We don't care where you work, your political views, etc. Heck, you can even wear your pajamas. We are happy to see you!
How do you come up with the unique flavors?
KC: Our employees come up with some ideas and customers make suggestions. Sometimes I just buy things and we all brainstorm what to do with it. For example, I bought toasted almonds so we made a raspberry filled, vanilla iced donut dipped in toasted almonds and drizzled with chocolate. My daughter told me to do a cotton candy donut for 6 months before I finally did it.
Would you consider becoming a franchise?
KC: I have been asked a few time to franchise. I may consider it, but I would have to guarantee that things are done correctly.
How did you find the money to open your business?
KC: I originally bought into the company and opened the business with a partner. My partner decided to sell out so I went to a local bank and got an SBA loan.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone thinking about opening a small business, what would it be?
KC: Ask a lot of questions before you start. The more information and friends you have the better off you will be.
Bearscat Bakehouse
701-222-2911
Hours: 6 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Bismarck | 1914 N. 12th St.
Mandan | 111 5th Ave. NE
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