Yelp’s Top 100 US Donut Shops 2023

There’s no better treat than a donut, served fresh and warm from a friendly local shop. And this year, the country’s top donut makers are crafting the beloved comfort food in exciting new ways. From old-fashioned frosted classics to bacon-topped maple creams, and trendy Hawaiian-style donuts with ube-flavored glaze, our 2nd annual guide to the top US donut spots has it all. The common denominator? They’re all considered America’s best by the Yelp community. 

So get ready for a sweet adventure. Here are the donut trends fans are Yelping about in 2023:

Outrageous toppings are more popular than ever. Craving something completely new? HOLE in Asheville, North Carolina (#2), offers a new topping flavor every week—honeysuckle, strawberry-peppercorn, and juneberry-basil, to name just a few. And at places like JD Flannel in San Juan Capistrano, California (#3), or Diablo Doughnuts in Baltimore (#19), you’ll find sweet treats covered with a dessert’s worth of confections, such as breakfast cereals, marshmallow, Nutella—or savory tastes like bacon and Old Bay seasoning. 

But classics keep donut fans coming back! Over-the-top donuts may be an occasional photo-worthy treat, but true donut lovers crave the simple stuff. That means a perfectly cooked ring of tender, sweet dough (cake or yeast-style) with a sugar or chocolate glaze (and maybe a cream or jelly filling). Chicago’s aptly named Old Fashioned Donuts (#16), for one, has been frying up its popular Original Glazed for half a century, and each one is as good as the last.

And it’s more than just donuts. Great donut shops also sell crullers, twists, apple fritters, and other fresh baked goods. Rocklin Donuts & Cinnamon in Rocklin, California (this year’s #1 spot), and Munchkins Donuts in Covina, California (#4), are as popular for cinnamon buns and croissants as they are for donuts. Top shops also pour a great cup of coffee or tea—the perfect donut pairing. At Glee’s Donuts & Burgers (#18) in Anaheim, California, you can sip a standout Vietnamese coffee with your blueberry-iced cronut—or you can order a “flight” of 5 chai teas with the unique mini donuts at Pip’s Original Doughnuts & Chai (#15) in Portland, Oregon. 

So whether you’re hungry for a cream-filled cronut or a brown-butter-iced donut, you gotta get up early to grab your favorites—the best shops attract long lines and sell out quickly. Plan your next delicious donut purchase by downloading the collection. And keep scrolling to see the top 25 donut shops in Canada that made this year’s list.

Did your favorite shop make it into the Top 100 Donuts list? Let us know on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok with #YelpTop100. And share your reviews on Yelp—maybe your favorites will be on next year’s Top 100 list! 

How we did it: This is a list of the Top Donut Shops in the US and Canada in 2023, according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the donuts category, then ranked those spots using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews between January 1st, 2022 and March 31st, 2023. This list looked at businesses in the US and Canada. All businesses were marked open on Yelp as of May 1st, 2023. When available, all businesses on this list have a passing health score as of May 1st, 2023.

In celebration of National Donut Day, Yelp is giving away free donuts in communities across the US. From Illinois to Arizona, top donut makers across the country are giving Yelpers a taste of their top treats. RSVP required.

Featured businesses for the donut giveaway:

Gurnee Donuts, Gurnee, Illinois

Mochinut, Chandler, Arizona

Pana Donuts Coffee & Boba Tea, Indianapolis, Indiana

Petit Three Donuts, Aurora, Illinois

Need the Yelp app? Download it here on your mobile device. 

Never choose between donuts and cinnamon rolls again—Rocklin Donuts & Cinnamon does them both with the highest level of quality, service, and deliciousness. This family-owned spot in the Sacramento suburbs became an instant staple when it opened in May 2022. Yelpers say you can taste “the love they put into each and every item,” from the “melt-in-your-mouth” apple fritters and glazed twists to Pennsylvania Dutch-style pecan sticky buns, not to mention donut holes as “light as ping-pong balls.” “When you’re talking about a tasty, satisfying, mom-and-pop donut shop, this is it,” writes Yelper Mamie C.

Rocklin’s menu plays all the hits—old-fashioned glazed donuts, bars, and twists, plus jelly donuts, and much more—so there’s something for everyone. If you’re craving heartier fare, go for the “warm and fresh” breakfast croissants (with fillings such as ham and cheese, or the zesty turkey and cheese with jalapenos). But the real standouts, according to Yelpers, are the “divine, warm, and not too sweet” cinnamon rolls, frosted in front of you, with the perfect frosting-to-cinnamon ratio. “We have the best cinnamon rolls because we use the highest-quality ingredients,” says co-owner Ky Pho.

The Pho family previously crafted their beloved pastries at BJ Cinnamon in Folsom, California (which kept up its quality after they sold it in 2019, and ranked #15 on Yelp’s Top 100 US Donut Shops 2022). The family opened Rocklin last year, and cinnamon-loving regulars flocked to their newest outpost. Now the Yelp community has spoken, and Rocklin Donuts & Cinnamon has officially earned the top 2023 spot for its “phenomenal service and perfectly fresh donuts.” 

What’s sweeter than that? Free donuts! The staff routinely throws in glazed twists and donut holes with customers’ orders. 

What they’re known for: To Yelpers like Dave L., “the winners are the cinnamon rolls and sticky buns.” But fans also rave about Rocklin’s cronuts (a fried, glazed croissant that comes in 4 flavors) and apple fritters.

Yelpers say: “My wife and I came here after finding out the owners of BJ Cinnamon had left the spot in Folsom and opened up a new shop here in Rocklin. I couldn’t be more happy to see that they are the same donuts and people I fell in love with years ago! I don’t know how to explain it, but these are seriously the best donuts I’ve ever had…whatever they do makes them taste significantly better than anyone else’s. A simple glazed donut tells you all you need to know…and these guys blow everyone else out the water. [And they’re] seriously some of the nicest people you will ever meet. We will always be back.” —Michael L.

Hungry for donuts in your area? Find more great donuts near you.

HOLE serves just 4 flavors of yeasted donuts—and each is pure “perfection,” according to Yelpers. Husband-and-wife duo Ryan Martin and Hallee Hirsh make their donuts fresh to order from a slow-rising dough, for a result that’s “delicately crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.” “We like to keep things as simple as possible, [and] get the donut perfect each time,” Ryan says. That requires a labor-intensive process of making 700–1,500 donuts daily—each of which is carefully hand-rolled and hand-shaped in HOLE’s open kitchen.

Yelpers love “watching the process [from] start to finish,” then tasting the donuts “seconds out of the fryer.” But it’s not just pastries that warm up this shop. With “unparalleled customer service” and a “rustic” vibe, HOLE is “like a small-town kitchen,” according to Yelp Elite Connor S. “I’ve never felt a warmer and [more] inviting place.” In addition to 3 core flavors, HOLE serves a changing seasonal option inspired by the natural abundance of Asheville. For example, this spring they developed a honeysuckle-glazed donut, flavored with flowers the owners foraged themselves. “People usually have a good memory of being a kid and eating honeysuckles off of vines,” Ryan says. Tasting them on a donut is the next best thing.

What they’re known for: The rotating specials are a must-try, but regular customers keep coming back for the Vanilla Glazed, Toasted Almond Sesame Cinnamon (which is “sweet but not too sweet”), and Cinnamon Sugar (which tastes “just like an elephant ear you’d get at the fair”). 

Yelpers say: “Did you stumble upon this page thinking a donut is just a donut? Well, you’re wrong, ’cause HOLE gives a (w)hole new life to donuts, and the reviews are truly reflective of that! Can’t go wrong with the classic glazed or cinnamon, but don’t sleep on the cinnamon sesame donut! Not only are their donuts hot, fresh, and absolutely delicious, but their customer service is unparalleled.” —Yelp Elite Allegra S.

Hand-rolled and hand-cut throughout the day, JD Flannel’s donuts are always “served fresh and warm.” The menu is stocked with classics—the “must try” Maple Bacon yeast donut and “to die for” Buttermilk Old Fashioned—as well as 4 seasonal options with a gourmet flair. Owners Dave Rhode and John Miller pride themselves on using premium, authentic ingredients, including Valrhona chocolate, Maldon sea salt, and real vanilla bean. Plus, they always have 4 gluten-friendly options, made with gluten-free cake dough and fried in a separate fryer—a boon for Yelpers who say these “light and fluffy” donuts are good enough to “make life enjoyable again.” About once a week, they make donuts that are vegan (or gluten-friendly and vegan).

Fly-fishing buddies turned business partners John and Dave (the J and D in the shop’s name) have come a long way since they first experimented with donut recipes using a turkey fryer from Sears. Now their Orange County shop often has a line out the door, thanks to donuts “made from scratch with fresh ingredients” and customer service that “keeps us coming back.” “We wanted to create a space where we could authentically serve people,” Dave says. “[John’s] dad would take him for donuts every Sunday. My mom and I connected through coffee. We started thinking, ‘Why don’t we look into this?’” 

What they’re known for: JD has a reputation for making donuts with a “great fluffy interior and crispy exterior.” Top sellers include Brown Butter Sea Salt (“slightly sweet, slightly salty”), Boysenberry (“crumbly cake donut with tarty, sweet boysenberry glaze on top”), and the seasonal smoked apple fritter, made with Granny Smith apples and a smoky cinnamon spice. Don’t leave without a cup of JD’s own special coffee blend, because what’s a good donut without its caffeinated sidekick?  

Yelpers say: “The BEST gluten-free donuts I’ve ever had! I have been searching high and low for years for a palatable gluten-free donut. JD Flannel’s donut quality, flavor, and service was 5 stars all around. The texture was the closest I’ve ever had to a real donut. Cookies and Cream was my favorite. It wasn’t too rich or decadent. The balance was absolutely perfect. The vanilla bean and butter salt were also really good. I have found my new favorite donut spot!” —Yelp Elite Yasmin F.

There’s often a line out the door of this cozy mom-and-pop donut shop that has been serving “delicious, hot, pillowy,” fresh-from-the-oven donuts and croissants to generations of patient locals. Yelpers love the “incredibly sweet and charming” owners, who are known for throwing in “a couple of extra treats” such as mini croissants or donut holes. Pro tip: For the best selection, “be sure to stop by early”…or call in your order ahead. 

Despite the name of the shop, many Yelpers say the “croissant is the star here.” (Munchkins recently landed the #1 US ranking on Yelp’s list of the top 30 spots for croissants in North America.) “They seriously know the lamination for the dough because the layers and crisp [are] amazing,” writes Yelp Elite Ann T. 

What they’re known for: Croissants aside, Yelpers have a sweet tooth for the simple glazed donut, which is “so light and fluffy, it’s like eating a cloud.” The chocolate-glazed yeast donut, meanwhile, has “a nice, slightly crisp exterior with a soft, moist interior…not too dense and not too airy,” says fan Anson H.

Yelpers say: “You walk in and you can feel the warmth—not just the physical warmth of a donut shop that bakes and makes their stuff fresh, but also the welcoming warmth from the people that run and work at the place. Their cake donuts are perfectly sized and the yeast-raised donuts are tall and fluffy without being doughy. But…I LOVE their jalapeno ham and cheese croissants. Super delicious! Served warm, the cheese on the inside is ooey gooey, and the jalapenos give it just the right amount of kick.” —Yelp Elite Jamie D. 

This welcoming shop at the gateway to Lake Powell has racked up more than 300 5-star reviews (out of 337 total) for “phenomenal” service and cake donuts “so soft that they literally melted in my mouth.” Owners Mark and Becky Self start making their sweet confections at 3:30 am to feed tourists who flock there for “pre-excursion donuts” before departing on slot canyon tours (run by a company in the same strip mall). Arrive by 7 am, when doors open, to grab top-selling Cinnamon Roll donuts and other signature favorites before they sell out.

Mark (who was born and raised in Page) walks newbies through the shop’s chalkboard menus. “I treat everyone like they’re my next-door neighbor,” he says. Not in the mood for sweets? Order one of the popular breakfast sandos—burritos, biscuits, or croissants. “Definitely make a point to stop here on your way to whatever hike or activity you have planned,” recommends Ava M.  About the name Hot N Sweet: Becky suggests it means “hot coffee, sweet donuts.” But Mark jokes, “My wife is pretty hot, and I’m just sweet.”

What they’re known for: “If you’re a sucker for a good cake donut, this is the place for you,” say fans. Choose from a dozen varieties of “airy, moist” cake donuts made fresh daily (Cinnamon Roll is the top seller, followed by Maple Pecan), plus coffee with 18 syrups and 6 milk options. Lavender oat milk latte with your donut, anyone? 

Yelpers say: “Based on the donuts alone, Hot N Sweet would be deserving of its 5-star rating even by big-city standards. The location in Page makes it all the more remarkable, and the stellar customer service is icing on the cake (donut).” —Yelp Elite Austin B.

More than 3,000 Yelpers have spoken for the second year in a row about this “must-try” north Austin shop and their “warm, fresh, orange, melt-in-your-mouth” donuts—Round Rock ranked #1 on last year’s Top 100 Donut Shops list. The 5-star confections get their signature orange (some say golden) hue from fresh eggs in the dough, made from the founder’s original recipe. Just like more than a half-century ago, the yeast-risen donuts are cut, rolled, fried, and iced by hand. In addition to their glazed originals, which many call “the best,” Yelpers rave about the chocolate iced, donut holes, eclairs, apple fritters, and kolaches (a Czech pastry popular in Texas). Yes, “the [drive-thru] line can be ridiculous, but that’s just a testament to how good they actually are,” says Andie S. Yelper tip: Find parking and order at the window. A second location in Cedar Park joined the original storefront in 2022. 

What they’re known for: The Texas-Sized Donut—“one donut that’s equivalent to an entire dozen”—is a 14-inch, 2-pound marvel available in glazed, chocolate, or half-and-half. 

Yelpers say: “The dough is pillow soft, but has a nice crust for that solid initial first bite. All of the donuts have a good donut-to-filling ratio or icing-to-donut ratio…and the flavors all [have] just the right amount of [sweetness] without being overwhelming.” —Yelp Elite Kim L.

This family-run gem in the Mission District (near BART) has been satisfying local cravings with a wide selection of “excellent, fresh, and fluffy” classic donuts for more than 30 years. You name it, they make it—raised, cake, glazed, frosted, sprinkled, filled, twisted—and all are “super affordable when you want a little treat.” 

The royal blue-colored storefront is run by the Nhul family, including brother-and-sister duo Kannyka and Victor—whose Cambodian refugee parents opened The Jelly Donut in 1987. Not only are they an integral part of the local community, but these generous and kind-hearted owners are known for sneaking a free donut or two into customers’ orders. Bring some bills because it’s cash only. 

What they’re known for: Jelly donuts, of course! There’s mango, apple, lemon, raspberry, pineapple, and more, plus “soft and pillowy” glazed donuts, French crullers, and an apple fritter that’s “a meal in itself.”

Yelpers say: “If I lived closer, I’d be here EVERY SINGLE DAY just for the mango jelly donut. It’s the best donut I’ve ever had. Their other donuts were great as well, and the staff is really friendly. It’s a tiny place…but sitting in there for a few minutes for a quick bite was great. I love it and I can’t wait to go back!” —Ziya S.

“Classic old-fashioned donut perfection” sums up this “beloved institution” across from Santa Clara’s Central Park Library, which Yelpers flock to for “literally the best glazed donut you’ll ever have.” They’re made by head baker Jesus Lopez “in front of your face,” just like Stanford “Stan” Wittmayer did when he opened the shop in 1959. The no-frills interior—with a long counter, swivel seats, and time-warp signage—also hasn’t changed much since the 1950s, which is part of the nostalgic charm. 

Yelpers advise arriving early, especially on weekends, because lines start forming at the 6 am opening, and items often sell out. A tip from Yelp Elite Tina K.: If there’s a seat at the counter, you can order there and enjoy your donut right away. Or order by phone at least 24 hours in advance, walk in, and take them to go. Either way, be sure to bring cash… or a check. 

What they’re known for: “The glazed donut is 100% the go-to,” in part because it’s “so light and fluffy,” Yelpers say. But “you cannot go wrong with any of their donuts,” especially the buttermilk (a different flavor is available each day of the week), Maple Glazed, Old Fashioned, cinnamon twists, cinnamon rolls, and crullers. 

Yelpers say: “Best donut in town, and I have lived in this neighborhood for over 30 years. The donuts are creamy, soft, and fluffy. [They] literally melt in your mouth.” —Jade S. 

When it’s late at night and you’re craving something sweet, hop on the 405 Freeway and head to Simone’s near Cal State Long Beach. This “local legend” is open 24/7, with donuts made throughout the day (and night), so they’re “fresh and warm” whenever you arrive. It’s mostly a “buy-and-go place,” but there are a few tables if you can’t wait to taste the deliciousness.

Yelpers also “highly recommend ordering custom donuts” here for birthdays or other special occasions. Alphabet donuts, fun shapes, themed donuts… Manager Melissa Eap, whose father Kong bought the shop in the early 2000s, does it all. “I ordered [personalized] Encanto-themed [donuts], and Melissa definitely showed her skills! They were a hit with the kids, and [it] was easier than cutting a whole cake for everyone,” says Mariah D. 

What they’re known for: Yelpers talk up the cronuts (“10 stars”), classic glazed, ham and cheese croissants, and apple fritters. Wash them down with “yummy” green Thai iced tea. 

Yelpers say: “Simone’s Donuts are addictively delicious!!! I’m a glaze-twist type of girl and the twists were so big, fluffy, and soft, it was like biting into a glaze-y cloud. Also, their cronuts are amazing… soft… buttery and delicious. I try something different every time and haven’t been let down yet. [I also recommend] the Apple Fritter, Tiger Tail, Buttermilk Donut, or the Matcha, all very very scrumptious!” —Yelp Elite Jasmyne G.

Find the best donuts in Los Angeles.

Purvé isn’t just a donut shop—it’s an experience. Upbeat music is pumping, the walls are covered with colorful murals, and customers take selfies while waiting for hilariously named donuts. Those include the 2 most popular varieties, according to co-owner Brion Zablan: Unicorn Butt Sneeze (lemon glaze with Fruity Pebbles) and You’re Killing Me Smalls (a s’mores-style donut capped with a Teddy Graham cookie, named for a meme from the movie The Sandlot). Yelpers also love the Umpa Lumpa Moist Dreamcicle (orange glaze and cream cheese), The Jimbo (cinnamon sugar and caramel-apple pie), and savory donut breakfast sandwiches. 

In 2018, Brion and his bartending buddy Nicholas Cornford decided to leave nightlife behind and make donuts instead of cocktails. “We signed a lease, having never made a donut in our lives,” says Brion. “You could say we took a leap.” It was the right time and place for Purvé. With Hawaiian donuts now a national trend, Purvé operates 2 locations, offering a dozen signature donuts plus a “Weekly D” special that pushes the boundaries of donut creation—think Sloppy Joe, Spaghetti, and flaming-hot Artichoke Jalapeno donuts. 

What they’re known for: At this good vibes shop, you’ll get hot, fresh, bespoke cake donuts made to order while you watch. “No display cases filled with premade donuts here.” The whole process is fun, says Yelp Elite Kim M.: “Grab a reusable menu and marker on their self-service tables, pay at the register, then watch the donut being made and decorated!” 

Yelpers say: “Oh my goodness, why haven’t I tried these sinful donuts before? They’re made to order, so moist and deliciously good! The s’mores donut was my absolute favorite. I can’t wait to go back.” —Star S.

More than a century of history backs this “5-stars-all-the-way” shop in Waterbury’s Lombard Plaza, where a fresh, warm glazed donut is “a party on the palate.” As a result, lines can be long. Arrive early for the best selection, because “as fast as they make them, they fly off the shelf.” While you’re waiting, check out the 100-plus-year-old baker’s table and dough trough that dates back to the original location on John Street, which is in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Waterbury. And bring your friends! “The space is quaint and spacious enough for a quick bite or a chat and chew,” says Yelp Elite Jocelyn P. 

What they’re known for: Yelpers rave about the glazed, Boston cream, chocolate frosted, jelly, and cinnamon confections.

Yelpers say: “The donuts are not fancy with crazy flavors, like some other trendy places, but they really nailed the varieties they have! They are out of this world! They’re on the smaller side, but they do not skimp with the filling, and no matter what time of day you go they’re always fresh.” —Yelp Elite Laura M. 

Craving a great-tasting OG donut without all the hoopla? This “old school, wait in line, get ’em while they’re hot” shop has been owned by the same family for more than a decade. Yelpers say they prefer Happy Donut’s “fresh and delicious” classics to “over-the-top donuts that look better than [they] taste.” Insider tip: Show up early; they sell out fast. If you’re a first-timer, order a mixed dozen to sample the variety.  

What they’re known for: Early hours (open at 4 am), fast and friendly service, easy-on-the-wallet prices, and a wide selection of fried treats to please just about every donut aficionado. Standouts include the raised glaze, donut holes, bear claws, apple fritters, and maple bars topped with real bacon. “Your basic donut assortment, done to perfection,” says Yelp Elite Art E.

Yelpers say: “I really love the staff and the hometown feel of this place. I’ve tried almost every single [donut]. I have yet to find a flavor I dislike.” —Andrea S. 

The delicious secret behind the donuts doled out by this “community treasure” dates back to the bakery’s founding in 1956. Second-generation owner and baker Nick Poulos calls it “the magic”—he mixes butter, lemon, orange, and vanilla flavoring, plus cinnamon, into the dough. “Most bakers don’t flavor the donut itself. But it makes a huge difference,” Nick says. Vanilla and butter flavoring also are added to the house-made glazes. “The flavors are layered. It’s not just sugar in the glaze,” Nick points out. 

Nick and his team make donuts fresh throughout the day. Mostly yeast raised, along with 2 varieties of cake donuts—old-fashioned sour cream and blueberry. Yelpers notice that “the owners take great pride in their craft,” which is why Superior Bakery is appearing on Yelp’s Top Donut Shops list for the second year in a row. 

What they’re known for: Regular glazed is their most popular donut, according to Nick. You can also get the delicious glaze on a fried croissant, another customer fave: “The pastry itself is melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and the glaze is nothing short of heaven,” according to Yelp Elite Susan Q. Customer service is also a 100% focus. “We make people feel like they’re coming to grandma’s house—warm and inviting and like family,” Nick explains. In what other family would you typically be handed a complimentary hot donut or mini fried croissant, or a warm chocolate chip cookie, when you walk in the door?

Yelpers say: “This is the place where dreams are made. The service was phenomenal, and we loved being able to see all the busy bakers in the back! Everything we tasted was perfection, but our favorites were the deep-fried croissants and freshly baked blueberry donuts.” —Michelle M. 

“Soft, fresh, and huge” donuts served by “the nicest people ever” (husband-and-wife owners Steve and Linda Si) are 2 reasons Yelpers are sweet on this “classic donut shop with a twist,” making its second appearance on this list. Alongside standards like Old Fashioned, glazed, and filled, you’ll find donuts decorated with candy, cookies, cereal, mini marshmallows, and more. For the young or young at heart, there are cute Hello Kitty, tic-tac-toe, and panda-faced confections, too. 

What they’re known for: Standouts include the chocolate bar, maple bacon bar (“It’s like having pancakes with maple syrup and bacon”), cinnamon roll, apple fritter, and ham-and-cheese croissant. Or try the Oreo cinnamon twist donut, which fans call “delicious.”

Yelpers say: “This donut shop has my heart. The service: phenomenal. The quality: delicious. The price: so low you can’t limbo under it. All jokes aside, this is an amazing place, and I will definitely be a regular.” —Sarah T. 

Mini donuts made fresh and hot to order are the signature sweets at this “must-stop” shop (and hip little “mobile van”), owned and run by husband-and-wife duo Nate and Jamie Snell. The menu is small but packs a flavorful punch—5 varieties of “warm little crispy donuts covered in deliciousness” (Raw Honey and Sea Salt is the top seller), plus rotating seasonal flavors like Banana Custard or Meyer Lemon Pear Butter. Pair them with 5 types of house-crafted chai for what fans call “a whole other level” of flavor. It’s definitely a “one-of-a-kind experience” that’s “totally worth the hype and wait,” say ardent Yelpers. P.S. Pip’s, which also appeared on last year’s list, is named after the orphan in the classic novel Great Expectations.

What they’re known for: One of the most popular orders, according to Nate: A “flight” of Pip’s house-crafted, small-batch chai and a dozen assorted donuts. “By your first bite or sip, you’ll be saying ‘Holy pip,’ ” says Yelp Elite Derek T. Nate and Jamie love to celebrate customers of all ages with a dozen free donuts on their birthdays (or up to a week after). 

Yelpers say: “They’re like little bites of heaven, fresh out of the fryer and coated in just the right amount of sugar and spice. And the flavors? Don’t even get me started. From the classic Cinnamon and Sugar to the more adventurous Nutella and Sea Salt, every doughnut is a masterpiece.” —Raul R.

Yelpers routinely drive across town for what many call the best donuts in Chicago. You might see Buritt Bulloch (aka Mr. B) in the front window, helming the fryer at the “legendary” South Side shop that he founded in 1972. Not much has changed in the past 50 years. The “melt in your mouth” donuts are cut, fried, and glazed by hand…and “still fresh and delicious the next day, if you have any left.” 

The Mississippi native, who’s considered an iconic part of the area’s rich Black history, still works 12 hours a day, 6 days a week to feed every sweet tooth of Roseland residents and beyond. What’s his secret? “I came from a family that loved to eat, loved to cook, so I just fell in line,” Buritt told a local TV station.  

What they’re known for: Although the original glazed (with a “perfect donut-to-glaze ratio!”) are the #1 sellers, Buritt’s favorite is the Buttermilk Cake donut—the first type he makes when the shop opens at 6 am. Yelp Elite Peg P. raves: “They’re generally perfect. Crispy edges and just moist enough inside. They turn into delicate clouds of joy when dunked in black coffee.” Apple fritters topped with pecans, and a massive Texas-style donut, are also popular. 

Yelpers say: “I grew up eating and loving these donuts as a small child. IMO this place is a pillar in the Roseland community. Still with the same swag as back in the day. I’m an adult now with grandchildren, and I come from the burbs to visit and share with my family the deliciousness that this place delivers! Love, love, LOVE THEM!” —Ed M. 

Thanks to its wee-hours schedule (open 12 am to 4 pm), night owls flock to this family-run walk-up window for classic donuts that are “always fresh out of the fryers”—from glazed to jelly, twists to bars. On weekend mornings, “the line stretches around the block.” Not to worry. The super-friendly staff is quick and efficient, and you can watch a baker making donuts in the back. “Old-school prices” and a “super cool vibe” add to Marie’s legendary status in Sacramento.  

What they’re known for: Yelper go-to’s include glazed, chocolate frosted, maple bars, cinnamon rolls, donut holes, apple fritters, and blueberry donuts. But don’t expect any “zany flavors like fruit loops,” says Rayla F. “And they don’t put bacon on everything.” 

Yelpers say: “You can tell a lot about an establishment by how they do their glazed donuts…Marie’s does it oh so right. Donuts were fresh and warm. Slightly crunchy on the outside, but very soft on the inside. You can taste the love that went into preparing the donuts. I’ve been coming here for years and will most certainly be back.” —Yelp Elite Markus R. 

Find more great donuts in Sacramento.

“Big, fluffy” donuts are the main attraction at this Disneyland-adjacent snack bar and donut shop. Yelpers praise it as the perfect location for “picking up something quick to eat on the way” to the Mouse’s house. Warm, welcoming service is the icing on the donut. “The gal at the counter was so sweet and friendly,” says Brianne M. “She gave us extra complimentary sprinkled donut holes along with the donuts we ordered as an extra treat for the kids too!”

What they’re known for: Burritos and burgers may dominate the menu, but Yelpers can’t contain their glee over the donuts—blueberry donuts, glazed twists, croissants, and cronuts, served alongside standout Vietnamese coffee. Kids especially like the Mermaid Donuts—they have different glazes and toppings, but always a tail in the middle.

Yelpers say: “It’s a typical-looking donut shop in a quaint neighborhood/plaza, but don’t be fooled…the food and service is incredible. We chose a chocolate bar, [which is] no ordinary donut. The dough is SOOOOOO fluffy and airy and soft. I was actually taken back! I don’t think I have ever had a donut of this great quality.” —Andrea V. 

Devilishly good donuts, designed by a former tattoo artist, draw lines out the door at this Belair Road (new location) sweet spot. Diablo’s creative confections, which bear such cheeky names as Unicorn Farts (vanilla glazed and covered in fruity cereal) and Panty Dropper (maple-glazed and topped with fresh bacon) often sell out. “They’re big, dense, and delicious, and…very much designed for splitting,” says Yelper Marty D. 

The small-batch, handmade donuts (no machines!) are the brainchild of owner and Baltimore native Michael Roslan, who launched the business in a buddy’s pizza shop in 2013. His lineup includes more than 20 different kinds of yeast and cake-style donuts, as well as glazes made from fresh fruit, real maple syrup, and house-made caramel. Diablo’s new, family-friendly space has a “fun vibe,” with decorated skateboards on the walls—and parking. “We hope to put a smile on everyone’s face,” says Chef Emily Roslan, Michael’s wife, who says they fry up 2,000–3,000 donuts each day.  

What they’re known for: The top 3 sellers are Unicorn Farts and Panty Dropper, followed by Berry Cheesecake (a yeast donut topped with dollops of cream cheese frosting and fresh-cut strawberries). Yelpers also swoon for the sweet-and-savory Captain Chesapeake (“Not sure Old Bay belongs on a caramel glaze, but I couldn’t stop eating this one,” admits Yelp Elite Adam K.) and Creme Brulee (with Bavarian cream and a burnt-sugar top). 

Yelpers say: “Legitimately the very best donut I’ve had in Maryland, hands down. The frostings are all perfectly fluffy and not overly sweet, and both the cake and yeast donuts had the best texture. Five stars across the board. I can’t wait to come back, despite living over an hour away.” —Savannah G.

Find more great donuts in Baltimore.

Warm on the outside, cold on the inside, delicious all over. That sums up the Milkbomb Sandwich—the signature dessert at this family-run ice cream shop on Potrero Hill. An elongated donut “bun” filled with handmade organic ice cream, the Milkbomb is warmed on a press, sealed, cut in half, and finished with fun toppings like Rainbow Mochi, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and Torched Fluff (a must-try treat with the taste of toasted marshmallows). You can fill your sando with any combination of the shop’s ice creams, but Yelpers favor the Asian-inspired flavors—ube (a Filipino flavor made from purple yams), red bean, and Thai tea—on an ube-flavored pandesal (slightly sweet “salt bread”) donut bun. The result is “unexpectedly amazing.” Be ready to wait: They “make your order right in front of you, so it takes time.” 

Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Jan-Michael Manuel and Marion Valenzuela, Milkbomb Ice Cream opened their San Francisco shop in 2017 with outdoor seating, and now has a second location in Berkeley.

What they’re known for: The signature Milkbomb Sandwich, which can be loaded up with your choice of “interesting [ice cream] flavors that aren’t too sweet”—in addition to ube, red bean, and Thai tea, faves include horchata, matchacado (matcha and avocado), and Vietnamese coffee. Donut “bun” flavors include glazed, cinnamon sugar, and the top-selling ube pandesal. 

Yelpers say: “I’ve never had a dessert like this before, and it was so yummy! I really liked the ube pandesal because it wasn’t sweet, so it didn’t feel like sweetness overload with the ice cream and Fruity Pebbles.” —Thomas D. 

Looking for tasty treats in your neighborhood? Search more great donut shops near me.

Check out the rest of Yelp’s Top 100 Donuts, and remember to tell us what you think by tagging us on social media with #YelpTop100.

21. Sweethearts Gourmet Donuts, Anthem, Arizona

22. Sweet Coloradough, Glenwood Springs, Colorado

23. Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop, Brooklyn, New York 

24. Donuts To Go, Sanford, Florida

25. Nord’s Bakery, Louisville, Kentucky

26. Fresh Donut & Deli, Salt Lake City, Utah

27. Chuck’s Donut Shop, Renton, Washington

28. Ruby Donut, Ayer, Massachusetts

29. Biagio’s Donut Shop & Pizzeria, Eastlake, Ohio

30. Twinkle Donuts, The Colony, Texas

31. Robin’s Snowflake Donuts & Cafe, Spring, Texas

32. Texas Donuts, Lorton, Virginia

33. Beiler’s Bakery, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

34. Avon Donuts, Pontiac, Michigan

35. Home Cut Donuts, Joliet, Illinois

36. Yum Yum Bake Shops, Colmar, Pennsylvania

37. Bill’s Donut Shop, Centerville, Ohio

38. Sedonuts, Sedona, Arizona

39. Gäbi Boutique Donut & Pastry, Henderson, Nevada

40. Bake Shack, Dania Beach, Florida

41. Beacon Doughnuts, Chicago, Illinois

42. S-H Donuts, Austin, Texas

43. Ray’s Donuts, Marietta, Georgia

44. Maui Ono Donuts, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii

45. Sweet Spot Cafe, St. Ann, Missouri

46. Granny’s Gourmet Donuts, Bozeman, Montana

47. Sunrise Donuts, Phoenix, Arizona

48. Holey Grail Donuts, Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii

49. Family Donut Shop, Seattle, Washington

50. Pink Love Donuts & More, Oakland Park, Florida

51. The Local Donut, Scottsdale, Arizona

52. Paula’s Donuts, Tonawanda, New York

53. Thomas Donut & Snack Shop, Panama City Beach, Florida

54. Gurnee Donuts, Gurnee, Illinois

55. Long’s Bakery, Indianapolis, Indiana

56. PANA Donuts Coffee & Boba Tea, Indianapolis, Indiana

57. Baker’s Dozen, Raleigh, North Carolina

58. Ronald’s Donuts, Las Vegas, Nevada

59. Urban Cookies Bake Shop, Phoenix, Arizona

60. Hole in One Donut, Tampa, Florida

61. Glazed Doughnuts, Hampton, Virginia

62. OMG Donuts & Bakery, Concord, North Carolina

63. Donnie’s Donuts, Ormond Beach, Florida

64. Desert Donuts, Phoenix, Arizona

65. Sluys Poulsbo Bakery, Poulsbo, Washington

66. Donut King Hawaii, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

67. Friendly Donut House, Henderson, Nevada

68. Dough in the Box Donuts – Marietta, Marietta, Georgia

69. The Hollywood Donut Factory, Hollywood, Florida

70. Mr. Donuts, Lone Tree, Colorado

71. DG Doughnuts, Ocoee, Florida

72. Dom Bakeries, Ypsilanti, Michigan

73. Donut Day, Aloha, Oregon

74. Carol Lee Donuts, Blacksburg, Virginia

75. A & H Donuts, Fort Worth, Texas

76. Heights Bakery, Columbia Heights, Minnesota

77. The Tatonut Shop, Ocean Springs, MIssissippi

78. Doe Donuts, Portland, Oregon

79. Dulce Donuts, Las Vegas, Nevada

80. Valkyrie Doughnuts, Orlando, Florida

81. Dan-D-Donuts & Deli, Panama City, Florida

82. Dev’s Donuts, Marietta, Georgia

83. Hell Yeah Gluten Free, Atlanta, Georgia

84. Glazed Over Donuts, Beacon, New York

85. Aware Coffee, Las Vegas, Nevada

86. Kane’s Donuts – Downtown, Boston, Massachusetts

87. The Doughnut Vault, Chicago, Illinois

88. Angelina Bakery, New York, New York

89. Carl’s Donuts, Las Vegas, Nevada

90. The Flour Box, Seattle, Washington

91. Marietta Donuts, Marietta, Georgia

92. Gibson’s Donuts, Memphis, Tennessee

93. Kamehameha Bakery, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

94. Mikiko Mochi Donuts, Portland, Oregon

95. Grand Donuts, San Antonio, Texas

96. Donut Run, Washington, District of Columbia

97. HenDough, Hendersonville, North Carolina

98. Titus Bakery, Lebanon, Indiana

99. Croffle House, Flushing, New York

100. Donut Den, Joliet, Illinois

We couldn’t celebrate National Donut Day without acknowledging some of the most popular donut spots in Canada. Whether you’re devouring a “soft as clouds” Matcha Brioche donut at Mello in Vancouver, British Columbia (#1), or enjoying an OG Glaze with Sour Cream + Sweetened Milk at Cops, in Toronto, Ontario (#2), there’s something for every donut lover on our list. 

How we did it: This is an all-time list of the Top Donut Spots in Canada, according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the donut category, then ranked those spots using a number of factors including the total volume and ratings of reviews between January 1st, 2022 and March 31st, 2023. This list looked at businesses in Canada. All businesses were marked open on Yelp as of May 1st, 2023. When available, all businesses on this list have a passing health score as of May 1st, 2023.

1. Mello, Vancouver, British Columbia

2. Cops, Toronto, Ontario

3. Lee’s Donuts, Vancouver, British Columbia

4. Cartems Donuts, Vancouver, British Columbia

5. 49th Parallel Coffee, Vancouver, British Columbia

6. SuzyQ Doughnuts, Ottowa, Ontario

7. Crave Doughnuts, Whitby, Ontario

8. Isabella’s Mochi Donut Boutique, Toronto, Ontario

9. DIPPED, Toronto, Ontario

10. Bronuts, Winnipeg, Manitoba

11. Daddy O Doughnuts and British Baked Goods, Mississauga, Ontario

12. Beechwood Doughnuts, Saint Catharines, Ontario

13. Destination Doughnuts, Edmonton, Alberta

14. Take Five, Edmonton, Alberta

15. Donut Monster, Hamilton, Ontario

16. The Donut Mill, Red Deer, Alberta

17. Country Fresh Donuts & More, Niagara Falls, Ontario

18. Harmony Donut Shop, North Vancouver, British Columbia

19. Glory Hole Doughnuts, Toronto, Ontario

20. Léché Desserts, Montréal, Québec

21. Duft & Co Bakehouse, Abbotsford, British Columbia

22. Outpost Mini Donut Company, Richmond, British Columbia

23. Honey Doughnuts & Goodies, North Vancouver, British Columbia

24. Duffin’s Donuts, Vancouver, British Columbia

25. Doughnut Party, Edmonton, Alberta

—Yelp’s Top 100 Donut Shops 2023 was written and reported by Carol Bialkowski and Emily Moon.