D.P. Dough is an American quick-service restaurant franchise that specializes in calzones. The company was founded in 1987 by Penny Knight and her son, Dan Knight, in Amherst, Massachusetts. Originally operating as a food truck, the business transitioned into a permanent retail location before expanding through franchising.
The restaurant's business model is specifically designed to target college student demographics. Consequently, many of its locations are situated near university campuses and maintain operational hours late into the night. The primary menu focus is on a variety of calzones, which are often categorized by main ingredients such as chicken, steak, or vegetables. The brand also offers side items, including tater tots and salads.
Ownership of the company has changed over time. In 2011, the franchise was purchased by Mark Crumpton. In 2019, D.P. Dough was acquired by Calzone Concepts, LLC, the parent company of the competing calzone chain Calios. Following the acquisition, the two brands began a process of consolidation, which included rebranding existing Calios locations as D.P. Dough establishments.
