Best Doughnuts in NYC for #NationalDoughnutDay

Again, where would I be without all these social media holidays directing my blog traffic?? Honestly, I’m too tired to think about it.

But while we’re at it, I did some doughnut research (why? I have no idea) and found some interesting pieces about the history of the donut hole here, as well as the difference between “doughnut” and “donut”. Hint: there is none, it’s just a spelling.

The doughnut (or donut) is one of those foods that has not gone completely insane over the years. What do I mean? I mean Instagram and it’s leeches have yet to invade the pillowy round puffs, leaving them completely edible; devoid of neon food coloring and glitter. It’s nice.

I’m sure some wacky concoctions do indeed exist out there, but none I’ve seen are THAT offensive. So without further ado, here’s where I suggest you grab one and celebrate this delicious, sweet day. And thanks to my resident sweet-tooth @food.drunk for the additional input!

Best Doughnuts in NYC

Doughnut Plant – my personal favorite, this is a great example of well-executed creativity that doesn’t go over the top. The PB + J is perfect, even with its unique square shape, and the creme brulee “doughseed” is a triumph. Hard to have a bad doughnut here, honestly. They also have vegan options if that’s your thing.
Dough – FAIR WARNING: these are almost as big as your head, so make sure you’re either really craving sweets or have someone to share with. I love the Dulce de Leche and Toasted Coconut, but a lot of people also love the Hibiscus (and it’s so pretty to look at).
Peter Pan Donuts – a classic spot in Greenpoint, Peter Pan has been serving up some of the best donuts (for cheap) since the 50’s. Try the Red Velvet Crumb and thank me later. I think they still go for slightly more than $1 each.
The Donut Pub – it’s open 24 hours. I feel like that’s all you need to know? But seriously, they’ve been serving up perfectly glazed bites of heaven since 1964. The traditional donut here is called “The Honey Dip”, but I’m also partial to the maple bacon croissant donut.
Du’s Donuts – leave it to Wylie Dufresne to take a donut and turn it into something other-worldly. These are cake doughnuts, so they have a different consistency than what most of us are used to, but that doesn’t make them any less delicious. Try the Brown Butter Key Lime, or even the Chocolate Caramel Brownie. I know I shouldn’t mention this in this list but they make an INSANE scrambled egg grilled cheese. You’re welcome.
Doughnuttery – they’re not big, but that’s kind of what I appreciate about them. All topped with a unique sugar blend, they have quirky names and flavors like Chai Me To The Moon (chai masala, black tea) and Urban Monkey (coffee, banana, coconut).
Daily Provisions – right next to Union Square Cafe, the only thing I’ve ever had here by way of donuts is the Cruller, aka a heavily fried pate a choux. I believe that’s what they’re known for anyway, and you have to get there early to actually get one. Anything brought to you by the man who brought you Shake Shack has to know what’s up, am I right?
The Doughnut Project – sooo these guys won me over with two things: the Everything Bagel Donut (trust me) and the Bacon Maple Bar with a giant piece of bacon laying gently atop a sweet blanket of maple glaze. The Everything Bagel Donut has a sweet cream cheese icing and just don’t knock it before you try it.
Dun-Well Doughnuts – calling all vegans, this one’s for you! And honestly even if you’re not a vegan, these are some damn good doughnuts. Try the lemon glaze, which is light, tart and wonderful. Located in…you guessed it, Williamsburg.
Legasea – I don’t think these are an all-year round item, but the apple cider donuts I had here recently were amazing. Not too sweet, moist (I know I hate that word but there’s no replacement), with apple compote inside and topped with a delicious vanilla cream frosting.
Pies-N-Thighs – while most of you know them for, well, pies and thighs (fried chicken), they also make a mean donut. The Toffee Pecan or Old Fashioned are my faves.
Dunkin Donuts – DON’T @ ME. I love chocolate glazed Munchkins and I don’t care who knows it. Also the Cinnamon Powdered ones are very underrated. Let me live.