DRIZZL’D, DESSERTS & DOPAMINE

There’s no denying the joy of biting into a warm, chocolate-drizzl’d churro or the comfort of a perfectly crispy hot-ball doughnut with some ice cream. But have you ever wondered why desserts have such an instant mood-boosting effect? It turns out that our love for sweets isn’t just about taste—it’s deeply rooted in science, psychology, and even evolution.

The three D’s: Drizzl’d, Desserts & a Dopamine hit.

At the heart of it all is dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in pleasure and reward. When we eat something sweet, our brain releases dopamine, triggering a sense of happiness and satisfaction. This is the same chemical reaction that occurs when we accomplish a goal, listen to our favourite song, or experience something exciting. Essentially, dessert gives us a built-in happiness boost.

Our preference for sweet foods isn’t just psychological; it’s biological. From an evolutionary perspective, humans are naturally wired to crave sugar. In ancient times, sweet foods like fruits and honey were energy-rich and crucial for survival, so our brains developed a reward system that encourages us to seek them out. While today we no longer need to hunt for honeycombs or forage for berries, our love for sweetness has remained just as strong.

Beyond the science, desserts also trigger positive emotions and nostalgia. The scent of our warm cinnamon coated hot-ball doughnuts might transport you back to childhood, or the taste of creamy, melted chocolate could remind you of a special celebration. Food is deeply connected to our emotions, and desserts, in particular, hold a special place in many of our happiest memories. Whether it’s birthday cake, ice cream on a hot summer day, or a late-night hot-ball doughnut run with friends, sweet treats are often tied to joyful experiences.

There’s also something about the ritual of dessert that makes it so enjoyable. Unlike a rushed meal, dessert is usually savoured—whether it’s a casual café outing, a date night, or a catch-up with friends over something sweet. The experience itself adds to the happiness factor, making dessert more than just a food but a moment of pure indulgence and relaxation.

At Drizzl’d, we believe that dessert isn’t just about satisfying a craving—it’s about celebrating the small joys in life. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day, sharing a couple trays of churros with mates, or simply enjoying a solo moment of indulgence, every bite is a reminder to enjoy the sweeter moments. So next time you’re in need of a mood boost, don’t underestimate the power of dessert—it’s happiness on a plate. 🍩🍫✨

LATE NIGHT REVIVAL?

Anyone who has travelled abroad knows that late-night eating culture is thriving in many parts of the world. In cities like Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and New York, food spots stay open well into the early hours of the morning, bustling with life. Whether it’s a crowded ramen shop in Japan, a hawker centre in Singapore, or a 24-hour dessert café in Paris, these places create a sense of community that brings people together long after the sun has set.

The perfect late night spot!

Melbourne, known for its incredible café and food scene, has never fully embraced this late-night dining culture—at least, not beyond fast food, kebabs, or pub meals. While the city comes alive in the evenings with bars and nightlife, finding a place to sit and enjoy a quality dessert past 10 PM can be a challenge.

Travelling has opened our eyes to the possibilities of what a thriving late-night food culture could look like. Overseas, late-night dessert spots are common, offering locals and travellers a chance to unwind, socialise, and indulge well past midnight. These places aren’t just about grabbing a quick snack; they create an inviting atmosphere where people can gather, share stories, and enjoy quality food in a relaxed setting.

This made us wonder—why doesn’t Melbourne have more of this? While the demand for late-night dining may not be as large as in some overseas cities, it’s clear that many people still crave quality food options after dark. Whether it’s a group of friends looking to extend their night out, a couple on a dessert date, or someone simply wanting to satisfy a late-night sweet tooth, there’s room for more places that cater to this culture.

Rather than reinventing the wheel, we look to the incredible late-night food cultures overseas for inspiration. There’s something special about knowing you can always find a delicious dessert, a warm drink, and a cosy place to sit, no matter the time. The idea of good food, good vibes, and a welcoming space late into the night is something Melbourne could embrace even more.

While the city’s late-night dining scene is still evolving, the shift is happening. More places are recognising that people don’t want their nights to end at 9 PM—and dessert lovers, in particular, deserve better options. As Melbourne continues to grow as a food capital, perhaps the future holds more places where great desserts and great company go hand in hand, no matter the hour.

Melbourne’s late-night food culture is evolving, and we can’t help but wonder—should we take it even further? We’ve seen firsthand how many people love indulging in a post-dinner dessert or late-night treat, and it raises the question: would Melbourne benefit from more places staying open until 2 AM or later? We’d love to hear from you—would you visit Drizzl’d if we extended our hours? Let us know your thoughts, and who knows—maybe Melbourne’s late-night dessert scene is just getting started! 🍩🍫✨

ECONOMICS OF A DESSERT RESTAURANT

Running a dessert business is more than just crafting delicious treats—it’s about understanding the financial side of the operation to ensure long-term success. While the idea of serving up mouthwatering sweets sounds like a dream, profitability requires careful planning, strategic pricing, and the ability to adapt to an ever-evolving market.

One of the most crucial aspects of running a profitable dessert business is understanding costs. Ingredients alone can be a significant expense, especially when quality is a priority. Customers expect rich chocolate, fresh fruits, and premium toppings, which means sourcing the best products without letting costs spiral out of control. Finding reliable suppliers, purchasing in bulk, and streamlining operations can make a noticeable difference in managing expenses. However, ingredients are just one part of the equation. Labour costs, rent, utilities, packaging, and marketing all contribute to the overall financial structure of the business. A beautiful, high-traffic location may draw customers in, but it also comes with higher rent. Striking the right balance between visibility and affordability is key.

The flagship.

Pricing is another major factor in ensuring profitability. Simply covering costs isn’t enough—the price of each item must reflect the value provided while also aligning with customer expectations. Dessert businesses that position themselves as premium experiences can command higher prices, while those aiming for affordability must focus on volume sales to remain profitable. Small details, such as the way prices are presented, can also influence customer perception. A $9.90 dessert may feel more justifiable than a $10 one, even though the difference is minimal. Additionally, offering bundle deals or add-ons, such as extra toppings or paired beverages, can help increase the average spend per customer.

Beyond pricing, maximising profit margins requires strategic management of inventory and waste. Wastage is a silent killer in the food industry, eating away at profits. Keeping track of ingredients, forecasting demand accurately, and repurposing excess stock into new creations can help maintain a steady margin. Seasonal specials and limited-time offerings are another way to drive sales, creating urgency and excitement among customers while also allowing the business to experiment with new flavours.

At Drizzl’d, we’ve gone through the trial-and-error process to figure out what truly works. We’ve refined our pricing, perfected our menu offerings, and built a brand that resonates with dessert lovers. Our approach is not just about selling desserts; it’s about creating an experience that keeps customers coming back for more. Whether it’s through innovative flavours, irresistible presentation, or strategic business decisions, we’ve unlocked the formula for a profitable dessert venture.

For those looking to step into the world of desserts, Drizzl’d offers the perfect opportunity. Our franchise model provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the guidance, support, and proven strategies needed to run a successful business. Instead of starting from scratch and facing the usual growing pains, franchisees can leverage our experience to fast-track their success. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a dessert business, now is the time to make it happen. Join us at Drizzl’d and turn your passion into a profitable reality. 🍩🍫🚀

WHY DESSERTS AND DEEP CHATS GO HAND IN HAND

There’s something about dessert that brings people together and sets the stage for deep, meaningful conversations. Whether it’s catching up with an old friend, sharing a heart-to-heart with a loved one, or having an unexpected late-night chat that stretches into the early hours, dessert has a way of making these moments even sweeter. At Drizzl’d, we see it all the time—friends sitting together, leaning in over a plate of warm churros, couples lost in conversation while enjoying their shakes, and groups of mates laughing between mouthfuls of hot-ball doughnuts.

It’s better when you share these.

Unlike a full meal, which can sometimes feel structured or rushed, dessert is all about taking your time and enjoying the moment. There’s no pressure to finish quickly or move on to the next course. Instead, the experience is relaxed, letting the conversation flow naturally while each bite is savoured. With the comforting aroma of fresh hot ball doughnuts in the air and the satisfying drizzle of chocolate over every treat, the atmosphere is perfectly set for genuine connection. Drizzl’d was designed with this in mind—a warm, welcoming space where people can sit back, indulge, and let the conversations unfold.

Food has a unique way of bringing back memories, and dessert is often at the heart of our most cherished moments. A bite of chocolate-drizzld churros might transport someone back to childhood family outings, while the taste of ice cream could bring back summer holidays spent with friends. These nostalgic flavours often spark stories, naturally leading to deeper conversations as people reminisce and open up. Dessert also has a scientific link to happiness, as sweet foods release serotonin, the brain’s "happy chemical." When people feel good, they naturally become more open, relaxed, and engaged, making dessert the perfect companion for long and meaningful talks.

Sometimes, the best conversations happen when no one wants the night to end. Ordering dessert is the perfect excuse to stay a little longer, letting the conversation continue without feeling rushed. Whether it’s dipping the last piece of churro into warm chocolate or playfully sharing the final spoonful of a creamy, indulgent treat, dessert creates a reason to linger and enjoy the company of those around you.

At Drizzl’d, we believe dessert is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a moment to connect, laugh, and enjoy life’s best conversations. Open late every night, we’re here for those spontaneous deep talks, light-hearted catch-ups, and every sweet moment in between. So next time you need a place to unwind, relax, and let the conversation flow, grab a table at Drizzl’d, order something delicious, and make memories over dessert. 🍩🍫✨

HOW TO PLAN A SWEET NIGHT OUT

There’s something undeniably special about a dessert date. Whether it’s a first date, an anniversary celebration, or just a casual night out with someone special, sharing something sweet adds a little magic to the experience. It’s fun, light-hearted, and full of good vibes—because let’s be honest, who isn’t happy when they’re eating dessert?

The Sweetest Night Out

If you’re looking to plan the perfect dessert date, here’s how to make it a night to remember.

1. Choose the Right Atmosphere

The setting plays a huge role in creating the perfect date night. You want a place that feels warm, inviting, and buzzy without being too loud—somewhere you can actually enjoy a conversation while indulging in your sweet treat. That’s why Drizzl’d is the ideal spot. The vibe is always upbeat, with the scent of freshly made waffles and doughnuts filling the air, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxed and fun night.

2. Pick the Perfect Dessert to Share

One of the best things about a dessert date is the shared experience. There’s something incredibly romantic and playful about dipping churros into melted chocolate together or fighting over the last piece of a warm, gooey brownie. Sharing desserts adds to the connection, making the date feel even more intimate.

3. Keep the Conversation Flowing

A dessert date is meant to be easygoing and fun—so keep the conversation light and engaging. Talk about your favourite childhood treats, the best desserts you’ve ever had, or even dream up crazy flavour combinations. Food has a way of sparking nostalgia and laughter, making it the perfect conversation starter.

4. Extend the Night (If It’s Going Well!)

If the date is going great, why end it at dessert? Take a walk through the city, find a scenic lookout, or just sit and people-watch while finishing the last bites of your sweet treat. A dessert date is the perfect way to set the tone for a memorable night without the pressure of a full-course meal.

Make Drizzl’d Your Go-To Dessert Date Spot

At Drizzl’d, we believe dessert is more than just a treat—it’s an experience. Whether it’s a first date, a casual hangout, or a celebration of love, we’ve got everything you need to make your night extra sweet.

So next time you’re planning a date night in Melbourne, skip the typical dinner and head straight for dessert. Drizzl’d is open late 7 days a week, serving up all the good vibes and sweet moments you’ll remember forever. 🍩✨💕

WE’RE HITTING THE STREETS

At Drizzl’d, we’re all about creating good vibes, spreading joy, and making people feel rewarded. In a world that can feel a little overwhelming, we believe in the power of small moments—like indulging in your favourite dessert—to turn a day around. Whether you’re celebrating a win, needing a pick-me-up after a tough day, or just craving something sweet, we’ve got you.

But we don’t just want to serve up delicious treats; we want to connect with you. That’s why we’re stepping outside our stores and into the heart of Melbourne and Sydney to bring our new marketing campaign to life!

What’s new??

We’re on a mission to spread positivity, inspiration, and feel-good moments. Through our new street campaign, we’ll be hitting the pavement, chatting with real people, and discovering what makes you happy. Whether it’s a favourite memory, a goal you’re working towards, or simply the little things that make you smile, we want to hear it all!

Here’s What You Can Expect:

✅ Street Pop-Ups & Giveaways – Keep an eye out for us! We’ll be handing out some sweet surprises and giveaways while capturing stories that inspire both online and in person.
✅ Social Media Spotlights – We’ll be sharing your stories across our socials, highlighting the little things that make life special.
✅ Collaborations & Community Love – Are you a content creator, business, or just someone who loves spreading joy? We’d love to work with you!

Get Involved!

If you’ve got a story to tell, a brand that aligns with our mission, or an idea to spread more positive energy, we’d love to collaborate. Send us an email at hello@drizzld.com.au and let’s create something special together.

At the end of the day, Drizzl’d isn’t just about desserts—it’s about celebrating life’s moments, big or small. So, next time you see us on the streets, don’t be shy—come say hi and let’s make the world a little sweeter together!

GOOD VIBES ONLY: THE PERFECT PICK-ME-UP

Life can be hectic, and sometimes all you need is a little pick-me-up to brighten your day. Whether you’re winding down after a long shift, celebrating a small victory, or simply looking for a reason to smile, going out for dessert is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to boost your mood. And at Drizzl’d, we’ve created the perfect space for you to indulge, relax, and soak in those good vibes.

Good vibes, Always.

There’s a reason why sweet treats make us feel good—it’s all in the science. Desserts naturally trigger the release of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical, instantly lifting your spirits. Whether it’s the comforting warmth of fresh churros, the richness of melted chocolate, or the perfect crunch of a waffle, every bite brings a moment of happiness.

But it’s not just about the sugar rush. The experience of going out, treating yourself, and socialising with friends plays a huge role in boosting your mood. Studies show that stepping out of your daily routine and engaging in positive social interactions helps reduce stress and improve overall well-being. What better way to do that than over a tray of indulgent, freshly made desserts?

There’s something magical about breaking away from the usual routine and doing something just for yourself. Instead of heading straight home after work or lounging on the couch, why not step out and treat yourself to a well-deserved dessert at Drizzl’d?

Picture this: You walk into Drizzl’d, greeted by the inviting scent of warm churros and freshly made doughnuts. The atmosphere is buzzing, filled with laughter and conversation. You take a seat, take a deep breath, and let the stress of the day melt away as you enjoy a plate of churros dipped in rich, velvety chocolate or a perfectly made, hot-ball doughnuts Drizzl’d in your favourite sauces. Instantly, your mood is lifted, and for that moment, nothing else matters except the pure joy of indulgence.

Melbourne may not have a big late-night food scene, but that’s why Drizzl’d is open late, seven days a week—because we know cravings don’t have a bedtime! Whether it’s after a long day, a spontaneous catch-up with friends, or a solo moment of self-care, Drizzl’d is your go-to dessert spot for good vibes and great treats.

So the next time you need a little pick-me-up, skip the boring routine and head to Drizzl’d. Because life is too short not to indulge in something sweet! 🍩🍫✨

MELBOURNE IS LACKING A LATE NIGHT EATING CULTURE

Travelling abroad has opened my eyes to something Melbourne is missing— a thriving late-night eating culture. After a long day of work, I found myself craving something satisfying, yet all I could find were the usual suspects: burgers, kebabs, or fast food chains. It was frustrating, especially since I had just come from places where food options were abundant well into the early hours of the morning. All I wanted was to sit down with my partner, relax and enjoy a nice meal. 

Overseas, it’s a completely different story. Whether it’s bustling hawker halls in Singapore, late-night ramen spots in Japan, or vibrant street markets in Thailand, there’s always somewhere to eat no matter the time. Even at midnight and beyond, these places are packed with people sharing a meal, socialising, and enjoying the night no matter what day of the week. It made me wonder—why isn’t Melbourne like this?

The reality is that Australia, and Melbourne in particular, doesn’t have the same ingrained culture of late-night dining that many other cities do. A big factor is how our society operates—our work schedules, nightlife, and city planning all contribute to businesses closing early. Even though Melbourne is known for its vibrant coffee culture and world-class food scene, when the sun sets, our dining options become incredibly limited past 9.30pm.

Another issue is demand. While plenty of people love the idea of having more late-night food options, the overall population of night owls might not be big enough to make it sustainable for many businesses. Running a restaurant or café into the late hours comes with increased labour costs, staffing challenges, and lower foot traffic during weekdays, which makes many owners hesitant to stay open past the usual dinner rush.

However, what I’ve noticed at Drizzl’d is that people are eager for more late-night options. Looking at our own customer statistics, we see a lot of people coming in right up until closing time, sometimes even waiting until the last minute to grab a dessert. This tells me that while late-night eating may not be the norm in Melbourne, there are definitely people who crave it.

That’s exactly why Drizzl’d is open late, seven days a week. We understand that sometimes, a sweet craving doesn’t hit until after dinner, or maybe you just want to catch up with friends over a warm churro or doughnut balls after a movie or late-night drive. We’ve made it our mission to bring a taste of that overseas late-night food culture right here in Melbourne—because dessert shouldn’t have a bedtime.

While Melbourne may not yet have a fully developed late-night dining scene, the demand is growing. More people are looking for places to eat, hang out, and enjoy good food after hours. At Drizzl’d, we’re proud to be one of the few places catering to that need, offering delicious desserts in a welcoming space long after most spots have shut their doors.

So the next time you find yourself craving something sweet at 10 PM until close to midnight, know that Drizzl’d has got you covered. Come in, indulge, and let’s keep Melbourne’s night-time food culture alive—one dessert at a time. 🍩🍫✨

RECRUITMENT RUN - COMPLETE

Wow—what a start to the year! Our January recruitment drive has officially wrapped up, and we’ve been blown away by the level of interest in joining the Drizzl’d team. With over 60 applications received, it’s been an exciting (and busy!) process reviewing all the passionate dessert lovers eager to be part of our journey.

We want to thank everyone who took the time to apply. Seeing so many enthusiastic candidates who share our love for delicious treats and exceptional customer experiences has been incredibly rewarding.

Want to Stand Out in Future Recruitment Drives?

While we couldn’t offer positions to everyone this time around, we encourage all applicants to keep an eye out for future opportunities. If you’re keen to increase your chances of success next time, here’s our biggest tip: follow the instructions!

A surprising number of applications missed key details, such as requested documents or properly answering our application questions. These steps help us understand if you’re the right fit for our team, so taking the time to read and respond carefully will always work in your favour.

Here are some quick ways to boost your application:
✅ Read the job ad thoroughly – Make sure you understand what we’re looking for.
✅ Follow instructions carefully – If we ask for a cover letter or specific experience, don’t skip it!
✅ Show your passion – We love enthusiastic people who align with our brand and values.
✅ Check your application before submitting – Typos and missing details can make a big difference.

At Drizzl’d, we’re always looking for energetic, customer-focused people who thrive in a fun and fast-paced environment. If that sounds like you, stay tuned—more opportunities will come as we continue growing!

Once again, a huge thank you to everyone who applied. We can’t wait to welcome our new team members and see them bring the Drizzl’d experience to life! 🍦✨

Would you love to work with us in the future? Follow us on social media and keep an eye on our careers page for upcoming roles!

DESSERTS AND DATE-NIGHT

There’s something undeniably romantic about sharing a dessert with someone special. Whether you’re dipping strawberries into our rich, melted chocolate, splitting a plate of warm churros and dunking them into creamy ice cream, or feeding each other spoonfuls of indulgent doughnut balls, Drizzl’d creates the perfect setting for a sweet and unforgettable date night - no matter how long you’ve been together!

Just met on Tinder or been together for over 50 years? We’ve got you!

But what is it about desserts that make them the ultimate romantic treat?

It’s no secret that sweetness is linked to happiness. Psychologists suggest that indulging in desserts releases dopamine—the same “feel-good” chemical associated with falling in love. This means that when you and your date share a delicious treat at Drizzl’d, you’re not just satisfying your cravings—you’re deepening your emotional connection.

Desserts also encourage sharing, a natural way to build intimacy. Splitting a dessert at Drizzl’d isn’t just about portioning bites—it’s about the playful back-and-forth, the teasing over who gets the last spoonful, and the shared excitement of discovering new flavours together. These small moments create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.

Beyond the taste, the experience of enjoying dessert together sets the perfect mood for romance. Picture yourself and your date at Drizzl’d, nestled into a cosy corner, the scent of freshly baked waffles filling the air. As you take your time savouring every bite, the atmosphere encourages laughter, deep conversations, and a moment to truly connect.

Some desserts even have aphrodisiac properties—chocolate, for example, naturally boosts serotonin levels, increasing feelings of happiness and attraction. The warmth of cinnamon, the richness of caramel, and the smoothness of vanilla all add layers of indulgence that enhance the sensory experience. At Drizzl’d, we craft each dessert to not only taste incredible but to create the perfect backdrop for romance.

Desserts aren’t just about indulgence—they’re about connection. Whether it’s your first date or your hundredth, Drizzl’d is the perfect place to share a treat, a laugh, and a moment that lingers long after the last bite.

Planning your next date night? Make it one to remember—visit Drizzl’d and let the sweetness begin! 💕🍫