As Dunkin’, the unofficial graduate school of caffeination, temporarily shuts its doors for grand renovations, Tenafly students find themselves entangled in a profound existential crisis. No, Dunkin’ is not just updating its winter menu, but several Dunkin’s are undergoing interior and exterior renovations. As of November 27, Dunkin’ in Cresskill closed. As a result, the familiar buzz of coffee grinders and the aroma of freshly baked goods are momentarily halted. The gossip sessions and study sessions are both on a pause as well. 

The students suddenly realized that the slogan “America Runs on Dunkin’’’ is true, and that they relied on Dunkin’ more than they ever knew. “I have always been an avid lover of Dunkin,’ and since its closure I have been extremely upset,” Orli Rosentein (’26) said. “Not only was it fast and easy to get, but it was cleaner than the other Dunkin’s nearby.” In the eyes of the Tenafly students, Dunkin’ was convenient for a midday pick-me-up or just a chat with friends. 

Despite Dunkin’ being a perfect place for students to go to, it still needed some improvements. Many noticed that the drive-thru had abnormally long lines. Dunkin’ plans to add a double drive-thru. The Dunkin’ location in Bergenfield is building a drive-thru, which they didn’t have before. “A double drive-thru system is going to change lives. It’s going to be very very convenient because right now the lines are usually backed up and cause traffic jams,” Ms. Griffin, a social studies teacher, said. Luckily, this will ensure that those with impatience won’t have to wait as long as they normally would. 

Another benefit coming to Dunkin’ is that the delicious bakery items are now going to be displayed in a location that allows Dunkin’-goers to get a closer look. Prior to this change, the bakery items presenting donuts and munchkins were not easily accessible to see, as it was behind the cash register. “I think that’s a really cool feature to see what you want, and maybe it will make people order faster,” Hannah Benowitz (’27) said. “It’s a good idea.” If you are indecisive and like visuals, this change will appeal to you. 

Some people may think that Dunkin’s logo is outdated. This is why Dunkin’ is advancing its logo to be more modern and more fitting for a comforting ambiance. “There usually aren’t even enough seats to be comfortable in Dunkin’, and the colors are so ugly, so I’m glad that they’re renovating it,” Val Reyes (’26) said. With the new renovations, customers will feel more welcomed. 

During this closure, while students may feel like they’re experiencing caffeine withdrawals from the temporary change, the teachers who reluctantly allow drinks in their classes have heaved sighs of relief when they noticed the lack of condensation marks left on the desks, or the constant clashing of ice against the plastic. “I hate Dunkin’,” Mr. Whitehead, an English teacher, said. “Kids have spilled huge amounts of Dunkin’ in class and arrived late. Then, they have to run to the bathroom because they drank too many ounces.” 

At least one teacher is dreading the re-opening of Dunkin’. 

The temporary closure of Dunkin’ due to renovations not only disrupted the daily routines of students and teachers but also revealed the addiction that individuals have to Dunkin’s coffee and baked goods. Now that Dunkin’ is currently undergoing construction, people realized that they took for granted the fun walks to Dunkin’ with friends. Let’s summarize the forthcoming changes: double drive-thru systems, an enhancing display of bakery items, and a new makeover inside. Although the students and some teachers of Tenafly are upset with this sudden closure, they are eager to see what Dunkin’ now has to offer. It’s clear that Dunkin’ is not just a coffee shop but a vital part of Tenafly community daily rhythm. 

Dunkin’ could not be reached for any comments.