Mabel Gray Team Brings ‘Bowling Alley Chic’ Food to Hazel Park Ice Cream Stand

Hazel Park ice cream stand Doug’s Delight is returning this month with help from Mabel Gray chef James Rigato and pastry chef Kristina Conger. The rebooted snack shop located at 24110 John R Rd. began hosting soft openings over the weekend and plans to officially debut on Wednesday, April 25, the Detroit Free Press first-reports.

Doug’s Delight originally opened in 1965 but was forced to close its doors in August 2014 after longtime owner Vicky Muccino died. In 2016, the Mabel Gray team bought the building just a few blocks from the restaurant hotspot with plans to bring Doug’s back under the direction of Conger. As Conger told Eater in October, she plans to use the additional kitchen space to expand into wedding cakes and other special order desserts.

Rigato, who handle the savory side of the menu describes his approach as “bowling alley chic.” Diners can expect six styles of Dearborn brand hot dogs including the Hot Mess topped with National Coney Island chili, house kimchi, onions, house sauerkraut, and nacho cheese. There’s also options like tater tots and curly fries that can be upgraded with toppings. Similar to Frito pie or Dorilocos, Doug’s so-called Walking Tacos are served in an open bag of Fritos topped with chili, tomatoes, onions, scallions, and nacho cheese. On the dessert side, Doug’s offers soft serve, Guernsey Creamery milkshakes, brownie sundaes, and banana splits.

Doug’s is planning to host additional opening previews from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on April 13 and 14 and April 20 and 21. The menu will be cash-only on those dates.

• Mabel Gray Team Revives Classic Hazel Park Ice Cream Stand Doug’s Delight [Freep]
• Ice Cream Shack Doug’s Delight Aims for Spring Revival in Hazel Park [ED]
• All Doug’s Delight Coverage [ED]
• All Openings Coverage [ED]