From frosted classics to creative reinventions, the South does not lack in appetite enticing donuts. Travelers can visit regional staples like the Donut Hole Cafe & Bakery in Destin, Florida or stop by newer establishments such as Charleston’s Glazed Gourmet Doughnuts, which offers unique creations like Green Tea & Sesame and Blue Cheese Cabernet. In our special issue Travel South we worked with sister title Taste of the South to include a list of enticing and eccentric Southern roadside stops, and featured four of our favorite destinations for donuts. Start your donut itinerary here and continue with the full list of the South’s Best Donuts from Taste of the South.
The Donut Hole Café & Bakery
Destin, Florida
Opt to dine in for breakfast or lunch. You may have to wait in line, but the Florida seafood and produce added to omelets, pancakes, and more are well worth it. If you’re in a hurry, head straight to the register for top-notch donuts to-go. Try the Key lime–filled doughnut and the Vanilla Angel.
850.837.8824
Harlow’s Bakery
Pineville, Louisiana
Since 1972, the stars here are simple: lightly glazed doughnuts made from scratch every morning. Pair them with savory kolaches and rich coffee, and you’ll have the local breakfast of choice. You can even pick up pastries or one of their signature cakes as a take-home treat.
318.448.0399
Sublime Doughnuts
Atlanta, Georgia
This spot takes the fried dough way beyond basic. Choose from flavors like Nutella, butter toffee, or maple bacon Cheddar. They even offer doughnut ice cream sandwiches—the perfect summer treat.
404.897.1801
Glazed Gourmet Doughnuts
Charleston, South Carolina
Using local ingredients, Chef Allison Smith whips up goodies such as apple-filled doughnuts with cinnamon glaze and Cheddar cheese topping. These doughnuts aren’t limited to breakfast time either. For lunch, try a Monte Cristo doughnut or a fritter with ham, cream cheese, and pepper jelly.
843.577.5557
Find your new favorite Southern culinary destination!
