Cinnabon opened its first bakery in Federal Way, Washington, in 1985.
The bakery was established at SeaTac Mall, now known as The Commons at Federal Way. Its founders, Rich Komen and Greg Komen, developed the concept around freshly baked cinnamon rolls, with the product prepared in shops rather than supplied only as packaged food.
Cinnabon later expanded through franchising, placing small bakery counters and stores in shopping malls, airports, and other high-traffic locations. Its signature Classic Roll became the brand’s best-known product and helped distinguish it from ordinary bakery franchises.
The opening date is sometimes confused with the company’s later national expansion. Cinnabon’s first location dates to 1985, while its international growth occurred afterward through franchise agreements and company development.