It’s Monday, your weekend was rough, and all you need is a doughnut! Luckily for you, and us, Eater.com has found the 14 BEST Doughnut Destinations in New York City. And if you happen to be on our Chelsea Market tour this morning, you will have a chance to try one of them at the Doughnuttery!
best doughnut destinations in new york cityDoughnuts in New York City have evolved from their humble beginnings as “olykoeks,” a treat introduced by Dutch settlers in the 17th century. Washington Irving, the namesake of Irving Place, immortalized them in his 1809 work, “Knickerbocker’s History of New York,” referring to them as “dough-nuts” – sweet dough balls fried in pork fat.
Today, doughnuts are categorized into two main types: yeasted and cake. Yeasted doughnuts are lighter and often come with a sugar glaze, whereas cake doughnuts are typically denser, frosted, or covered in sprinkles. Modern varieties may include fillings like pudding, jelly, or peanut butter, demonstrating the treat’s versatile appeal.
The culinary scene has embraced doughnut innovation, leading to the creation of unique flavors and presentations. This guide highlights some notable spots:
Don Paco Lopez Panadería
In East Harlem, Don Paco Lopez Panadería, a staple for pan dulce, offers doughnuts among its selections. Notably, a fried doughnut filled with custard, resembling a sandwich, stands out for its decadence.
Angelina Bakery Times Square
Angelina Bakery, located near Times Square, surprises with its refined pastries, including doughnuts with Italian flair, like the pistachio cream-filled variant dusted with sugar.
Bear Donut
Bear Donut specializes in mochi doughnuts, a gluten-free option made from rice or tapioca flour. Favorites include toasted coconut and the inventive grapefruit-poppy seed.
Daily Provisions
At Daily Provisions, the crullers are a must-try. Available in flavors like cinnamon sugar and maple, they’re known for their creamy interior and honey-darkened crunchy exterior.
Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery
Umber Ahmad’s West Village location serves brioche doughnuts filled with vanilla cream, accompanied by the doughnut hole placed on top, a nod to traditional design.
The Doughnut Project
For savory tastes, The Doughnut Project offers creations like olive oil and black pepper doughnuts or a beet version with ricotta, redefining meal boundaries.
The Donut Pub
A fixture since 1964, The Donut Pub in Greenwich Village delights with a vast selection, ensuring new varieties are always on the menu.
Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop
In Greenpoint, Peter Pan is known for its affordability and classic offerings, like the honey dip and sour cream cake doughnuts.
Supermoon Bakehouse
Famed for its innovative pastries, Supermoon Bakehouse’s filled doughnuts, such as the one inspired by the super blood moon, showcase creative combinations.
Doughnut Plant
A leader among doughnut shops, Doughnut Plant excels in both cake and yeasted varieties, with specials like the tres leches cake doughnut and peanut butter and jelly yeasted doughnut.
Pies ‘n’ Thighs
Known for its brunch, Pies ‘N’ Thighs also offers standout doughnuts, like the butter pecan crunch, available until sold out.
Dun-Well Doughnuts
Dun-Well Doughnuts in Williamsburg offers an all-vegan selection, proving that dairy-free can still be delicious.
Fan Fan Doughnuts
After departing from Dough, Fany Gerson opened Fan Fan, gaining acclaim for offerings like the Danny Boy doughnut, with brown butter and salted caramel.
Doughology
Founded by Jackie and Chris Stiansen, Doughology is known for its bold and imaginative toppings, differentiating their doughnuts with playful aesthetics.
