Conversations with Arlton Cangelosi

Today we’d like to introduce you to Arlton Cangelosi.

Hi Arlton, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in New Orleans and have always enjoyed Louisiana’s cuisine. My career started in the foodservice industry at the age of 16 working at a donut shop as a baker’s helper, at night, on weekends. I attended community college achieving an Associates degree in food service while managing Beignet shops in the New Orleans area.

I went to work for the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier for the next 30 years. Through those years, I continued making beignets for my family and friends any time they requested.

Upon retirement, I decided I wanted to go back to what I love. I enjoy preparing food and seeing the smiles on the faces of those that eat what I have created.

I’m proud to provide New Orleans Style traditional Beignets and Chicory Coffee with chicory for all to enjoy.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Everyone thinks food trucks are an easy way to start a food business.

There is no set of rules as to how to get started. Permitting is a never ending process. Supply chain interruptions. Trucks will break down.

If you’re passionate about what you do, then none of this will matter.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At Mr. A’s Beignets we make authentic New Orleans style beignets. These are made fresh to order and served hot and topped with powdered sugar. Our mix and coffee is shipped directly from Louisiana.

We have two Mr. A’s Beignet trucks.

The first one serves on Hwy 55 at 312 S. Mason St.in Apex, NC from 7am – 1pm Tuesdays thru Friday and 8am-1pm on Saturdays. At this location, you can get traditional beignets or bite-sized beignets that are great for children or sharing.

The second truck handles catering and events, making handmade traditional beignets on site.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Mr. A’s Beignets started as a retirement hobby. My family has been a big part in the day to day operations.

There are a few people that are not family but are considered family that help out. I’m surrounded by some of the best in the business. Everyone loves what they do and does their best to make it a success.

Contact Info:

• Email: arltonc1@gmail.com
• Website: www.SquareDoughnuts.com
• Instagram: SquareDoughnuts
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SquareDoughnuts
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mr-as-beignets-apex-2

Image Credits
Photo credit Mash Photography @MashPhotography