Normally, this is the part of the article where we try to convince you why you should care about the picks we’re about to roll out. But in this case... do we even need to bother? These are donuts. You probably know about local dough-darling Federal Donuts, so here’s a sampling of some of our other favorite donut shops in Philly.
Reading Terminal Market
This family-owned, old-school spot has been slinging Amish-style donuts in Reading Terminal for three decades. They serve dozens of varieties, but our favorite here might be the melt-in-your-mouth glazed apple fritter (which does indeed count as a donut!).
South Philly
Frangelli’s has been crafting their beloved hand-cut donuts in South Philly for more than 70 years, so naturally, they know what they’re doing. Their ice cream donuts are a common favorite (basically, an ice cream sandwich with donuts as the bun), but their “frannoli” — a donut lovingly filled with fresh cannoli cream — is the stuff of local pastry legend.
Multiple Locations
Dottie’s (with locations in Fishtown, West Philly, Society Hill and Wissahickon) is a veritable dessert haven for those sticking to plant-based diets: everything on the menu is 100% vegan, even the Boston cream. Pay close attention to their Instagram to keep up-to-date on their seasonal specials, including a delectable spiced apple cider jam donut for December.
South Philly
When owner Carol Ha founded Okie Dokie as a side project back in 2012, she just wanted to have some fun making gluten-free desserts. Now, her creative (and delicious) donuts have generated a cult following that’s turned Okie Dokie into a full-time business, complete with a walk-up window and delivery service.
Center City West
Mochi donuts — a Japanese-American hybrid that’s becoming increasingly popular in the States — are made from rice or tapioca flour, frosted in gorgeous colors, and pair exceedingly well with boba tea. Mochi Ring was the first to bring this innovative spin on a classic fried delicacy to Philly, and with bold flavors like ube, matcha, and s’mores, it’s still the go-to option for anyone looking to expand their pastry palate.
🍩 H/T to City Cast Philly contributor and Philly food icon Dave Wez for his help in reporting this piece! Listen to all of his donut recommendations here.
June 6, 2024: This article has been updated with new photos, and to reflect that there is just one current Beiler's location in Philly.
