A sweet, fluffy donut is the perfect treat, whether you want to start your morning on a good note or are craving a late-night snack. Traditional American donuts were first fried up in New York City by early Dutch immigrants. The fried dough rings are still popular today, evolving to include elaborate flavors, toppings, and fillings. While we may be far from NYC, where donuts got their start, Francisco has plenty of unique donut shops to choose from.
1. Bob’s Donuts
Bob’s Donuts is well known for its late-night treats that have satisfied many post-bar cravings throughout the years. The donut shop is family-owned and operated and has been serving fresh donuts since 1960. The iconic donut shop has three locations: two in San Francisco and one in Mill Valley.
Location: 1621 Polk St, San Francisco, 601 Baker St, San Francisco, 252 Almonte Blvd, Mill Valley
2. Johnny Doughnuts
The shop whips up classic donuts, from fluffy raised sweets to old-fashioned donuts with the perfect cake-like texture. The donut shop also has more creative sweet treats, including a croissant-donut hybrid, roasted sweet potatoes, and a wheat-free donut. The donut shop has a total of four locations in the Bay Area.
Location: 2404 California Street, San Francisco, 1617 Fourth Street, San Rafael, 2257 Larkspur Landing Circle, Marin, 1200 Fourth Street, Santa Rosa
3. Mochill Mochi Donut
Mochi donuts are a must-try; luckily, you can find them right in San Francisco. The traditional Japanese-style donut is made from rice flowers and granulated sugar, giving it a chewy, light texture. The mochi donuts come in various flavors, including matcha, berry, smores, and a donut topped with gummy bears. The shop also offers brioche, French puffs, and more at most locations.
Location: 1737 Post Street STE395, 3251 20th Ave STE159
4. Dynamo Donut & Coffee
Dynamo Donuts was opened in 2008 by pastry chef Sara Spearin. The artisan donut shop features classic flavors and seasonal delights, including caramel pecan and cornmeal chocolate chip anise. The shop also offers vegan and gluten-free options so everyone can enjoy their delicious donuts.
Location: 2760 24th Street, 110 Yacht Road
5. Butter Love Bakeshop
Butter Love Bakeshop is known for its delicious pies for any occasion. The bakery also serves fresh, fluffy donuts and various other pastries. The family business brings a dash of love into all their sweet creations, and whether you’re craving a classic donut or a holiday pie, it’s a must-try.
Location: 3717 Balboa Street
6. Whack Donuts!
This pop-up donut shop is available at Ritual Coffee Roasters in Valencia on the weekends. The small business started in 2020, and soon, you’ll be able to grab a cup of York Street Coffee and your vegan donut at their new pop-up space in Four Center Embarcadero.
Location: 4 Center Embarcadero