Looking for a treat? Stroll around New york with a deliciously-messy donut. We're here to get your fingers sticky with a selection of New York City's best donut shops. Find the powdered, jelly-filled, or glazed delicacy that best suits your mood as you explore the city's most pristine, classic and adventurous donut hubs.
COVID hit many of the city's family-led donut favorites, including The Cinnamon Snail food truck and beloved Dunkin Donuts chains across the nation. We're sorry to see them go, and we hope they come back strong when this thing is over, but we're happy to say many delectable donut empires still stand in these streets. Here's our list of the best donut shops in New York City.
See also: The 11 Best Cheesecake Spots in NYC
Dough
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14 West 19th St. / Website
Take a trip to Bed-Stuy's cozy corner and treat yourself to a freshly-baked and invitingly-scrumptious donut. Decorated with love, coconut flakes and crunchy oats, Dough's unique selections will satisfy any sweet tooth. Bite into a comforting Café Au Lait donut covered in pecan crumbs, or embrace your sophisticated side with a Lemon Poppy from the special orders.
Peter Pan Doughnuts
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727 Manhattan Ave. / Website
Offering Honey Dip, Chocalate Frosted with Sprinkles and a flurry of other flavors, Peter Pan Doughnuts has been active for more than 60 years. Loyal customers flock to Greenpoint to explore the options or sink their teeth into a personal favorite. As playful with its name as with its colorful confections, this spot shines with consistently-exquisite creations.
Grace Street
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17 W 32nd St. / Website
For an adventurous donut degustation, stop by this Korean-led dessert palace. This sweet café famously serves a slew of desserts, but their ambitious donuts really stand out. Indulge in their Malasada, a Hawaiian twist on a Portuguese classic, while basking in Grace Street's tastefully modern setting, perfect for a Saturday or an after-work treat.
INSIDER TIP: Pair your tasty donut with a whimsical Lavender milk tea.
Doughnut Plant
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379 Grand St. / Website
Who said donuts have to be unhealthy? Let go off the guilt and spoil yourself with these egg-free "Donuts of the Gods" (as hailed by The New York Times). This environmentally-friendly spot is among the trendiest in town, boasting a Pistacchio Sourdoughnut, Peanut Butter and Blackberry Jam and other creative takes. Their signature is the Crème Brulée donut, beloved for being crispy on the outside and filled with a creamy vanilla cream custard. They even have vegan and gluten-free options.
Leskes Bakery
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7612 5th Ave. / Website
You just can't go wrong with Nordic-insipired Leske's, considered one of New York's go-to institutions. From bread to cupcakes, croissants and more, Leskes in Brooklyn has it all. For a timeless classic, order a Cinnamon Twist donut and celebrate the city's autumnal charm.
Photography by: Noam Galai
