Ted Ngoy was the Cambodian-American entrepreneur known as “The Donut King” in California.
Ngoy arrived in the United States as a refugee and built a successful doughnut business in Southern California. He also helped train and finance other Cambodian refugees who entered the industry, contributing to the strong Cambodian-American presence in California doughnut shops.
His story illustrates how immigrant networks can shape a regional food business. Doughnut shops offered a relatively accessible path to self-employment, and Ngoy’s influence extended beyond his own stores through mentoring and financial support.
Ngoy’s nickname should not be confused with the founders of major American chains. He was not the founder of Krispy Kreme or Dunkin’ Donuts; his importance lies in the California doughnut community and its refugee history.