Sweet Tooth: The Best Donuts in the South Sound

In honor of National Donut Day, I’m exploring my favorite donuts and donut shops in the Pacific Northwest. Let’s explore!

Top 5 Donuts

#5: The Maple Bar

It’s got maple flavor on top like a pancake, and is the shaped like a surfboard (aka is bigger than the average donut) – so what’s not to love?

Some people toss bacon onto this donut and while I tend to be more of a purist, the maple bar definitely lives on the top 5 list.

#4: Filled

I didn’t pick just one flavor here, because the jelly or cream-filled donuts really comes down to a matter of taste. But, who can deny that a donut with a special surprise isn’t entirely delightful?

#3: Glazed

This is the baseline of all donuts – the foundation on which a good breakfast-dessert is built upon. While a good glaze donut doesn’t come with any bells or whistles, it is the very best donut upon which to judge donut shops!

#2: Apple Fritter

The apple fritter comes twisted, covered in icing, and features apple/cinnamon deliciousness. Since it has fruit in the title, it has to be more healthy, right?

#1: The Old Fashioned

Frosted or unfrosted, the Old Fashioned is my favorite of all the donuts – and I don’t want to hear your arguments otherwise. A cake donut with a crispy shell, what I love about this is that it isn’t as sweet as the rest. I like a little bite with my breakfast.

Top Donut Shops in the South Sound

Donuts, those delightful rings of fried dough coated in sugar and glaze, are a universally loved treat. In the South Sound region of Washington state, a haven for food enthusiasts, there's no shortage of fantastic donut shops that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Topping the list is "Legendary Donuts" with locations scattered across the South Sound, including Tacoma and Puyallup. True to their name, Legendary Donuts has built a reputation for crafting unique and, indeed, legendary donuts. From classic glazed to extravagant creations like the Maple Bacon Bar or Fruity Pebbles-covered delights, each bite is a testament to their commitment to flavor innovation.

Venturing a bit south to Olympia, one can't miss the mouthwatering offerings at "The Filling Station." This charming little donut shop takes pride in their handmade, from-scratch creations. Their old-fashioned cake donuts are a local favorite, boasting a rich, dense texture that pairs perfectly with a cup of their freshly brewed coffee. The Filling Station is not just a donut shop; it's a haven for those seeking an authentic, nostalgic experience.

For those who appreciate a touch of whimsy in their donuts, "Pao's Donuts" in Lakewood is a must-visit. Known for their artistic and Instagram-worthy creations, Pao's doesn't just deliver on aesthetics; their donuts are a delightful explosion of flavors. From the Unicorn Dreams, a vibrant and colorful confection, to the classic glazed with a twist, Pao's combines creativity with exceptional taste.

But the South Sound donut scene isn't just about extravagant flavors; it's also about community. "Original House of Donuts" in Lakewood has been serving up delicious donuts since 1959, creating a legacy that spans generations. Their commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every bite, making it a cherished spot for locals and visitors alike.

Whether you're a connoisseur of classic glazes or an adventurous flavor seeker, the South Sound has a donut shop to satisfy every craving. So, next time your sweet tooth calls, embark on a delectable journey through the South Sound's best donut destinations and treat yourself to a sugary symphony of flavors.