The best donut in Portland… other than Voodoo
We must acknowledge that Voodoo is responsible for putting donuts on the Portland tourist itinerary but there are many better donuts to be had in town. First off, if you feel compelled to tick the box and visit Voodoo while you’re here, we insist that you opt for the Eastside location on NE Davis St. It’s just a few blocks from Lolo Pass and the lines are much more manageable than the original Old Town location. If a donut in the shape of a voodoo doll, cleverly filled with raspberry jelly and a pretzel “stake” is your thing, read no more.
If your palate is a bit more discerning, here are some of our preferred options:
PIP’S ORIGINAL DOUGHNUTS & CHAI
What is a more fun pairing than donuts and chai? Pip’s has been a beacon to the community since they opened their doors and you will not be disappointed with their lasting yet simple menu of mini donuts and house brewed chai, all made fresh to order. The best thing about mini donuts is that you can try them all - and we recommend that you do. This spot is probably our fave and definitely unique to Portland. It’s worth the visit.
ANNIE’S DONUT SHOP
This place is a timeless touchstone, a nice counterpoint to the trendiness that has overtaken today’s donut marketplace. The shop itself feels like a time capsule and the donuts do not disappoint. It’s a family owned business with a local patronage that has been visiting for generations. This donut shop is so authentic that they don’t even have a website. The price is right and if you want the full pick of their range, go early... or late - they’ve got nighttime hours. This is a worthy stop on your way to the airport any time of day.
DOE DONUT
Don’t let your dietary choices get in the way of a good donut - Doe is entirely vegan! Their flavors are unique and ever changing. Don’t worry about missing out on that ubiquitous bacon topping - they’ve got a vegan version made from coconut. We love this place because they’re making donuts accessible to all diets and it’s female owned and they’re generous with the community. They recently started selling ice cream alongside their donuts but we think the donut is the move here.
BLUE STAR DONUTS
Once a well kept secret, Blue Star now has locations around the city and a few spots in California and can be ordered online. This place is teetering on the edge of Voodoo-dom. We’re partial to the location on SE Division because there’s a Salt & Straw right across the street and there’s something so wonderfully gluttonous about parallel lineups for donuts and ice cream. These donuts are special because they’re made of brioche and classically Portland in that they’re made with “gourmet” ingredients. They’re constantly innovating so you can never go wrong by ordering one of their classics like the ‘O.G’ (Orxata Glaze) AND a more seasonal option. Pro Tip: There’s a Blue Star in the Portland Airport in the Main Terminal before security. If the security lines aren’t too bad, hit them up on your way out of town. Early morning is surprisingly not the best time, as they get their fresh stock a few hours after opening.