Quick answer
While Portland is overflowing with amazing donut options, Blue Star Donuts consistently ranks high for its unique brioche-based creations and gourmet flavors.
- Best overall
- Blue Star Donuts
- Best budget
- Annie's Donut Shop
- Best experience
- Voodoo Doughnut
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection for Portland's legendary donut shops is based on a blend of local popularity, critical acclaim, uniqueness of offerings, and overall customer experience. We considered shops ranging from iconic tourist attractions to beloved neighborhood staples, ensuring a comprehensive guide to the city's diverse donut landscape.
All 12 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #None | Voodoo Doughnut (Old Town) | Quirky Donuts, Novelty, Classic Donuts | $2-6 per donut / ~$2-6 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Blue Star Donuts | Gourmet Donuts, Artisanal, Unique Flavors | $3.50-6.00 per donut / ~$3.50-6.00 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai | Mini Donuts, Handmade, Chai | $5-10 for a dozen mini donuts / ~$5-10 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Doe Donuts | Vegan Donuts, Gourmet Vegan, Creative Flavors | $4-7 per donut / ~$4-7 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Sesame Donuts | Classic Donuts, Asian-Inspired, Local Favorite | $1.50-4.00 per donut / ~$1.50-4.00 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Annie's Donut Shop | Old-School Donuts, Budget-Friendly, Classic Flavors | $1.25-3.00 per donut / ~$1.25-3.00 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Coco Donuts | Artisan Coffee, Classic & Unique, Locally Sourced | $2.50-5.00 per donut / ~$2.50-5.00 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Donut Nook (formerly Delicious Donuts) | Classic Donuts, Early Bird, No-Frills | $1.50-3.50 per donut / ~$1.50-3.50 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Mikiko Mochi Donuts | Mochi Donuts, Gluten-Free, Japanese-Inspired | $3.50-5.00 per donut / ~$3.50-5.00 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Heavenly Donuts | Classic Donuts, Local Gem, Late Night | $1.25-3.00 per donut / ~$1.25-3.00 USD | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Tried & True Coffee & Doughnuts | Beignets, Cake Donuts, Artisan Coffee | $3-6 per serving / ~$3-6 USD (for donuts/beignets) | — | Neighborhood |
| #None | Doughnut World | Classic Donuts, Variety, Family-Owned | $1.50-3.50 per donut / ~$1.50-3.50 USD | — | Neighborhood |
Quick Picks by Budget
Best Picks by Occasion
Best for Unique Flavors & Gourmet Treats
For those seeking an elevated donut experience, head to Blue Star Donuts for their brioche-based creations and sophisticated flavor profiles like blueberry bourbon basil. If you're after innovative vegan options, Doe Donuts pushes the boundaries with gourmet plant-based delights. And for a truly distinct experience, Mikiko Mochi Donuts offers chewy, Japanese-inspired, gluten-free wonders.
Best for a Quick, Classic Fix
When you're craving a straightforward, delicious donut without the frills or fuss, Portland has you covered. Annie's Donut Shop and Heavenly Donuts are both local legends for their timeless, budget-friendly classics. For a reliable stop with a wide variety of beloved options, Sesame Donuts delivers consistent quality across its many locations.
Best for Families & Fun
Planning a family outing or looking for a memorable treat with the kids? Voodoo Doughnut is an iconic, colorful destination that will surely impress with its wild shapes and toppings. For a delightful mini-donut experience, Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai offers fresh, hot, tiny donuts made to order, perfect for sharing. And Doughnut World provides a vast selection of classic varieties that will please every member of the family.
Best Late-Night Cravings
When that sugar craving hits after dark, Portland has a few stellar options. Heavenly Donuts is a well-known local secret, often open late into the night for fresh, classic donuts. Similarly, Voodoo Doughnut is famous for its extended hours, making it a perfect spot to satisfy those post-dinner or post-bar sweet tooth desires with their quirky creations.
Best for Dietary Alternatives
Portland excels in catering to various dietary needs. For an incredible range of plant-based options, Doe Donuts crafts gourmet vegan donuts that are indistinguishable from their dairy counterparts. If gluten-free is a must, Mikiko Mochi Donuts offers delightful, chewy mochi donuts that are naturally gluten-free and packed with unique Japanese-inspired flavors.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Voodoo Doughnut vs Blue Star Donuts
The quintessential Portland donut debate! Voodoo Doughnut is the quirky, irreverent icon, famous for its wild toppings and novelty factor, often drawing long lines for its affordable and fun creations. In contrast, Blue Star Donuts offers a more refined, gourmet experience with brioche-based donuts, sophisticated flavor combinations, and a higher price point for a more artisanal treat. Voodoo is the spectacle, Blue Star is the culinary craft.
Doe Donuts vs Mikiko Mochi Donuts
These two spots lead the way in innovative dietary-friendly donuts. Doe Donuts is a fully vegan bakery, perfecting plant-based donuts with creative fillings and glazes that appeal to vegans and non-vegans alike. Mikiko Mochi Donuts specializes in chewy, naturally gluten-free mochi donuts, drawing inspiration from Japanese flavors for a lighter, distinct texture. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize vegan or gluten-free, or simply desire a unique texture.
Annie's Donut Shop vs Heavenly Donuts
For classic, no-nonsense donuts that evoke nostalgia, these two local gems stand out. Annie's Donut Shop is celebrated for its straightforward, perfectly executed cake and raised donuts, often praised for its consistency and friendly service. Heavenly Donuts offers a similar old-school charm and delicious classics, often lauded for its late-night hours, making it a beacon for after-hours sweet cravings. Both are budget-friendly staples for a pure donut fix.
Voodoo Doughnut (Old Town)
The original Voodoo Doughnut shop is a Portland icon, famous for its wild, boundary-pushing creations and vibrant, sometimes bizarre, atmosphere. Expect lines, but also expect an unforgettable, uniquely Portland experience that goes beyond just a donut.
🍽️ What to order
The Voodoo Doll (raspberry jelly, chocolate frosting, pretzel stake) or the Bacon Maple Bar.
💡 Insider tip
Go during off-peak hours (early morning or late night on weekdays) to avoid the longest lines. Cash only at some locations, so be prepared.
"Voodoo is definitely a tourist trap, but honestly, the Voodoo Doll donut is a rite of passage in Portland. And the Bacon Maple Bar is surprisingly good."— r/Portland user
Blue Star Donuts
Blue Star elevates the humble donut to an art form, crafting brioche-based pastries with sophisticated, often boozy, flavors. Their donuts are made from a classic French brioche recipe, taking 18 hours to prepare, resulting in a distinctively rich and airy texture. It's a premium donut experience.
🍽️ What to order
Blueberry Bourbon Basil or the Passion Fruit Cake donut.
💡 Insider tip
Try their seasonal flavors, which are often incredibly creative and limited-time offerings. Pair with a Stumptown coffee for the full gourmet experience.
"If you want a truly *good* donut in Portland, skip the Voodoo lines and go to Blue Star. The brioche texture is unreal, and the flavors are actually complex. Blueberry Bourbon Basil is my jam."— r/food user
Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai
Pip's specializes in fresh, made-to-order mini donuts and house-blended chai. Each batch of warm, sugary morsels is fried right in front of you, ensuring peak freshness. Their unique chai blends are a perfect complement to the small, delightful treats, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
🍽️ What to order
Honey & Sea Salt mini donuts with a Meadow Rose Chai.
💡 Insider tip
Arrive early on weekends to snag a seat at their small counter. They often have special 'flight' offerings for both donuts and chai.
"Pip's is seriously underrated. Fresh hot mini donuts, right there, can't be beat. And their chai is the best in the city, hands down. Honey & Sea Salt is addictive."— r/Portland user
Doe Donuts
Doe Donuts is Portland's premier destination for exquisite vegan donuts that rival any traditional offering. Their creative flavors, beautiful presentation, and perfectly chewy texture prove that plant-based can be utterly delicious. Expect unique glazes and fillings, all made with care.
🍽️ What to order
The 'Portland Fog' (Earl Grey Tea infused glaze) or the 'Raspberry Pistachio'.
💡 Insider tip
Their flavors rotate frequently, so check their social media for daily specials. They also offer vegan soft serve, which can be donut-infused!
"As a non-vegan, I can confidently say Doe Donuts makes some of the best donuts in Portland, period. The Portland Fog is a revelation. You wouldn't even know they're vegan."— r/veganfood user
Sesame Donuts
A long-standing local favorite, Sesame Donuts offers a vast selection of classic cake and raised donuts, alongside unique Asian-inspired flavors. They've been a reliable spot for fresh, affordable donuts for decades, making them a go-to for many Portlanders seeking a no-frills, satisfying treat.
🍽️ What to order
Their classic Glazed Raised donut or a seasonal specialty like the Ube donut.
💡 Insider tip
They often have a wider selection early in the morning, perfect for grabbing a fresh box for the office or a weekend treat.
"Sesame Donuts is my go-to for a solid, no-nonsense donut fix. Their apple fritters are massive and always hit the spot. Way better than the tourist traps."— r/Portland user
Annie's Donut Shop
Annie's Donut Shop is a beloved old-school establishment offering consistently delicious and incredibly affordable donuts. It's a no-frills spot that focuses on quality ingredients and time-honored recipes, serving up comforting classics that taste like nostalgia. Open late and often bustling with regulars.
🍽️ What to order
Their classic Old Fashioned or a warm Chocolate Bar.
💡 Insider tip
Annie's is a great late-night spot for a cheap, satisfying snack. Their coffee is also surprisingly good for a donut shop.
"For a real Portland donut experience, skip the hype and go to Annie's. Best old fashioned I've had in years, and you won't break the bank. It's just good, honest donuts."— r/Portland user
Coco Donuts
Coco Donuts seamlessly blends classic donut offerings with artisan coffee, making it a popular stop for commuters and downtown workers. They pride themselves on fresh, locally roasted coffee and a rotating selection of both traditional and inventive donut flavors. Their shops are bright and inviting.
🍽️ What to order
Maple Bacon donut with a pour-over coffee.
💡 Insider tip
Coco Donuts offers a variety of coffee options beyond basic drip, making it a great place to get both your caffeine and sugar fix. They often have gluten-friendly options too.
"Coco is my go-to downtown. The maple bacon donut is perfect, not too sweet, and their coffee is actually good, which is a rare combo for a donut spot."— r/Portland user
Donut Nook (formerly Delicious Donuts)
Donut Nook, formerly known as Delicious Donuts, maintains its reputation as a no-frills, cash-only spot serving classic, fresh-baked donuts. It’s a local institution known for its incredibly early opening hours, making it a favorite for shift workers and early risers looking for a simple, satisfying treat.
🍽️ What to order
Their classic Buttermilk Bar or a simple Glazed Raised donut.
💡 Insider tip
Remember to bring cash, as they are a cash-only establishment. The earlier you go, the fresher the selection.
"Donut Nook (yeah, Delicious Donuts to us old timers) is the real deal. No fancy stuff, just solid, perfect donuts for a good price. Get a buttermilk bar, you won't regret it."— r/Portland user
Mikiko Mochi Donuts
Mikiko Mochi Donuts offers a delightful twist on the classic donut, featuring chewy, slightly crispy mochi donuts inspired by Japanese flavors. Made from glutinous rice flour, these unique treats have a distinctive bouncy texture and come in a rotating array of vibrant, often seasonal, glazes and toppings.
🍽️ What to order
Matcha, Black Sesame, or a seasonal fruit flavor.
💡 Insider tip
Mochi donuts are best eaten fresh. Check their social media for current flavors and pop-up locations, as they can sell out quickly.
"Mikiko Mochi Donuts are just amazing. The chewiness is so satisfying, and the flavors are always spot-on, especially the matcha. Plus, they're gluten-free if that's your thing!"— r/foodpdx user
Heavenly Donuts
Heavenly Donuts is another true neighborhood gem, known for its consistent quality, friendly service, and traditional offerings. This unassuming shop has built a loyal following over the years for its perfectly fried, melt-in-your-mouth donuts and community feel. It’s a classic Portland donut experience.
🍽️ What to order
The Jelly Filled or a classic Glazed donut.
💡 Insider tip
Perfect for an early morning stop or a late-night craving, as they often have fresh batches available. Grab a coffee to go with your donut.
"Heavenly Donuts is the definition of a local treasure. Nothing fancy, just consistently good donuts at great prices. My family has been going for years, always a friendly face."— r/Portland user
Tried & True Coffee & Doughnuts
While primarily a coffee shop, Tried & True earns its spot for its exceptional cake donuts and fluffy, made-to-order beignets. Their focus on quality ingredients extends to their baked goods, offering a refined, less sugary alternative to some of the more elaborate donut shops. It's a perfect spot for a sophisticated breakfast.
🍽️ What to order
Their Beignets dusted with powdered sugar, or a rotating flavor of their cake donuts.
💡 Insider tip
Pair your beignets with one of their expertly crafted espresso drinks for a truly elevated morning treat. Seating can be limited during peak hours.
"Everyone sleeps on Tried & True for donuts. Their beignets are legitimately fantastic, light and airy. And their coffee is top-notch, so it's a win-win."— r/food user
Doughnut World
Doughnut World is a charming, family-owned establishment that has been serving up a wide variety of classic donuts for years. From fritters to crullers and every type of glazed and frosted donut imaginable, they offer a comforting selection for those who appreciate traditional flavors and friendly, personalized service.
🍽️ What to order
A classic Cruller or an Apple Fritter.
💡 Insider tip
They often have a wider selection earlier in the day. It's a great spot to grab a dozen for a gathering, as their prices are very reasonable.
"Doughnut World on Barbur is my weekend ritual. Their apple fritter is huge and delicious, and the staff are always so nice. Support local!"— r/Portland user
Planning Your Portland Donut Visit
Best Time to Visit & Beat the Crowds
For popular spots like Voodoo Doughnut and Blue Star Donuts, aim for weekday mornings right after opening or during off-peak hours (mid-afternoon). Weekends, especially later in the morning, typically see the longest lines. Early birds can often find the freshest selections and a calmer atmosphere at any shop.
Navigating Portland: Parking & Logistics
Many of Portland's legendary donut shops are located in bustling neighborhoods. Parking can be a challenge, especially in downtown or SE Portland, so consider public transport (TriMet), ride-sharing, or walking if possible. For Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai, ordering ahead for pick-up can save time.
Pairing Your Donut: Coffee & Chai
Donuts and coffee are a match made in heaven! Many shops, like Coco Donuts and Tried & True Coffee & Doughnuts, pride themselves on excellent coffee pairings. Pip's Original Doughnuts & Chai is renowned for its house-made chai, offering a unique, spiced alternative to coffee.
Tips for a Self-Guided Donut Crawl
To truly experience Portland's donut diversity, plan a donut crawl! Start early, pace yourself (share donuts!), and choose shops geographically close to minimize travel time. Don't forget to hydrate between sugary stops, and consider varying your donut types (classic, gourmet, vegan, mochi) for the full spectrum of Portland's offerings.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Which Portland donut shop is the most famous?
Voodoo Doughnut is undoubtedly the most famous and iconic donut shop in Portland, largely due to its quirky brand, unique donut designs, and national media attention. It's often a must-visit for tourists, known for its long lines and unforgettable experience.
Are there good vegan donut options in Portland?
Absolutely! Portland is a haven for vegan food, and donuts are no exception. Doe Donuts is a dedicated vegan donut shop that receives rave reviews from both vegans and non-vegans for its creative flavors and perfect textures. Many other shops also offer at least one vegan option.
What's the difference between Voodoo Doughnut and Blue Star Donuts?
Voodoo Doughnut is known for its outrageous, novelty donuts and quirky atmosphere, often seen as a tourist attraction. Blue Star Donuts, on the other hand, focuses on gourmet, brioche-based donuts with sophisticated, artisanal flavors, appealing to those seeking a high-quality, refined pastry experience.
What are 'mochi donuts' and where can I find them in Portland?
Mochi donuts are a unique type of donut made from glutinous rice flour, giving them a distinctly chewy and bouncy texture, often in a pull-apart ring shape. They are popular for their unique mouthfeel and fun flavors. You can find excellent mochi donuts at Mikiko Mochi Donuts in Portland.
Are Portland's donut shops expensive?
Portland offers a range of donut prices to suit any budget. Classic, no-frills shops like Annie's Donut Shop or Heavenly Donuts offer donuts for $1.25-$3.00. More gourmet or specialty shops like Blue Star Donuts or Doe Donuts might range from $3.50-$7.00 per donut, reflecting their premium ingredients and craftsmanship.
What's the best time to visit Portland donut shops to avoid lines?
To avoid the longest lines, especially at popular spots like Voodoo Doughnut, it's best to visit early on a weekday morning right after they open or during off-peak afternoon hours. Weekend mornings typically see the longest queues. Some classic shops might also have fresh batches late at night.
What are the most famous donut shops in Portland?
The most famous donut shop in Portland is undoubtedly Voodoo Doughnut, known for its quirky, often outrageous, creations and vibrant atmosphere. Blue Star Donuts also holds significant fame for its gourmet, brioche-based offerings and sophisticated flavors, representing the more artisanal side of Portland's donut scene.
Where can I find vegan donuts in Portland?
Portland is a vegan paradise, and donuts are no exception! Doe Donuts is a dedicated vegan donut shop that crafts truly inventive and delicious plant-based treats that will satisfy any craving. Many other shops also offer vegan options, so always check their menus.
Which Portland donut shops have unique flavors?
For unique flavors, Blue Star Donuts is a top contender with options like Blueberry Bourbon Basil. Voodoo Doughnut offers novelty flavors and toppings such as Bacon Maple or their signature Voodoo Doll donut. Mikiko Mochi Donuts also stands out with Japanese-inspired mochi donut flavors.
Are there gluten-free donut options in Portland?
Yes, for those seeking gluten-free donuts, Mikiko Mochi Donuts is an excellent choice. Their mochi donuts are naturally gluten-free, offering a unique chewy texture and a range of delicious flavors. While not all shops specialize in gluten-free, Mikiko provides a dedicated and delightful experience.
What's the best time to avoid lines at Portland donut shops?
To avoid long lines, especially at popular spots like Voodoo Doughnut and Blue Star Donuts, aim to visit on weekday mornings shortly after opening or during the mid-afternoon slump. Weekends, particularly mid-morning, will almost always involve a wait, so plan accordingly or embrace the experience.
Is Voodoo Doughnut worth the hype?
Voodoo Doughnut is absolutely worth visiting for the experience and novelty. While some might argue other shops offer superior gourmet quality, Voodoo delivers on fun, unique creations, and an undeniable Portland vibe. It's a rite of passage for visitors and a place to find truly wild donut combinations, making it a memorable stop.
Which Portland donut shop is best for vegans?
For an unparalleled vegan donut experience, Doe Donuts is the absolute best, offering an incredible range of creative and delicious plant-based flavors. Voodoo Doughnut also has a selection of vegan options, though not as extensive or gourmet as Doe.
Where can I find unique or unusual donuts in Portland?
Voodoo Doughnut is legendary for its bizarre and creative donut creations, like the Voodoo Doll or Bacon Maple Bar. For gourmet uniqueness, Blue Star Donuts offers sophisticated flavors such as Blueberry Bourbon Basil, while Mikiko Mochi Donuts provides a distinct chewy mochi texture and Japanese-inspired flavors.
Are there any gluten-free donut options in Portland?
Absolutely! Mikiko Mochi Donuts specializes in naturally gluten-free mochi donuts, making it the top choice for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals seeking a unique texture and taste. Some other shops might offer a single gluten-friendly option, but Mikiko's is dedicated.
Which Portland donut shop is open late or 24 hours?
For late-night donut cravings, Heavenly Donuts is a local favorite, often open until very late hours. While Voodoo Doughnut used to be 24/7, their hours can vary, so always check their current schedule, but they are generally open late.
What's the difference between Voodoo Doughnut and Blue Star Donuts?
The main difference lies in their approach: Voodoo Doughnut is famous for its edgy, novelty donuts and a fun, quirky atmosphere, attracting tourists and those seeking a unique experience. Blue Star Donuts, on the other hand, prides itself on gourmet, high-quality brioche-based donuts with sophisticated, artisanal flavors, appealing to foodies and those desiring a premium taste.
Where can I find classic, no-frills donuts in Portland?
For a taste of traditional, old-school donuts without the fuss, head to Annie's Donut Shop or Donut Nook, both cherished by locals for their consistent quality and affordable classic selections. Heavenly Donuts and Doughnut World also excel in delivering reliable, comforting favorites.
Which donut shop has the longest lines in Portland?
Historically, Voodoo Doughnut (Old Town) is infamous for its long lines, especially on weekends and peak tourist times, but it's part of the unique experience. Blue Star Donuts can also draw a crowd, particularly for their specialty flavors, though typically not as consistently as Voodoo.
Are there good gluten-free donut options in Portland?
Absolutely! For fantastic gluten-free donuts, you must visit Mikiko Mochi Donuts, which specializes in delightful mochi donuts that are naturally gluten-free and wonderfully chewy. Some other shops might offer occasional gluten-free selections, so it's always worth checking their daily specials.
What are the best vegan donuts in Portland?
Portland is a vegan paradise, and for the absolute best vegan donuts, look no further than Doe Donuts. They are a fully vegan shop crafting gourmet, creative, and incredibly delicious plant-based donuts that impress even non-vegans. Other shops like Voodoo Doughnut (Old Town) also offer a selection of vegan options.
Which Portland donut shops are open late?
For those late-night sweet cravings, Heavenly Donuts lives up to its name by often being open late into the night, making it a perfect stop after an evening out. Voodoo Doughnut (Old Town) is also famous for its extended hours, often staying open 24/7 or until very late, catering to all-hour donut desires.
Is Voodoo Doughnut worth the hype in Portland?
Voodoo Doughnut (Old Town) is definitely a unique experience and often considered a Portland rite of passage, especially for its quirky creations and lively atmosphere. While some locals might prefer the gourmet quality of Blue Star Donuts or the traditional charm of Annie's Donut Shop, Voodoo offers a distinct, fun, and memorable part of Portland's culture that many find worth the wait.
Where can I find classic, no-frills donuts in Portland?
If you're seeking straightforward, delicious, and traditional donuts without the novelty, Portland has several fantastic options. Annie's Donut Shop, Heavenly Donuts, and Donut Nook are all beloved for their classic glazes, sprinkles, and old-fashioned options that deliver pure donut comfort.
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