Munchi Mochi remains open with limited hours after car crashes through storefront

CEDAR RAPIDS — A relatively new doughnut shop is pressing forward after a car crashed through its storefront.

Munchi Mochi, a new doughnut shop near Kirkwood Community College, had a temporary setback after a car drove through its building on July 30. The incident destroyed the store’s front wall and left significant damage inside.

The shop said there were no serious injuries from the incident. Two employees and a customer were on site at the time.

“We cannot comment on the cause of the accident, as we are only able to speak from our own perspective. What we can say is that it was truly an accident,” owner Kira Anthony said in a statement. “The individual involved — who has been a loyal supporter of our business — and their passengers are understandably still in shock, as are those who were present inside.”

The shop was boarded up quickly, and Munchi Mochi continued selling its treats from a makeshift booth, according to KCRG. Less than two hours after the crash, it nearly sold out thanks to an outpouring of support from customers who saw social media posts.

Anthony said her employees may be out of work “for some time,” asking for the community to help support them. Those wishing to support the business can participate in a $1 raffle each week while the café works through insurance claims.

“Every ounce of what we had, including our personal home, was invested into building Munchi Mochi into the safe, vibrant, and creative space it became,” Anthony said. “We've always believed that Cedar Rapids is a special place, and this past week — even amidst the heartbreak — has proven just how strong and caring our community is.”

The shop first opened in March. It specializes in boba tea and mochi doughnuts, a rice flour-based twist that has about half the calories of a traditional doughnut.

Munchi Mochi will continue operating with temporary hours:

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.

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