Best Donut Shops In The Sacramento Area
Looking for your early-morning, afternoon, oh heck, evening donut fix? Look no further than these local shops.
Bill's Donuts
8749 Auburn Folsom Rd.
Granite Bay, CA 95746
(916) 791-1086
It's had the same owner for nearly 30 years, which speaks for consistency, if nothing else. People who've left the area, visit the shop on return visits. That speaks for quality. Colored sprinkles on cake donuts and bear claws are among regulars' favorites.
Broadway Donuts (Former Baker Ben's)
2731 Broadway
Sacramento, CA 95818
(916) 736-2544
A classic small, family run business popular among locals. The donuts aren't too greasy and there are two favorites — apple fritters and huge bear claws.
City Donuts
1001 Jefferson Blvd. Suite #300
West Sacramento, CA 95691
(916) 372-5342
The friendly owners bring back a lot of customers. But equally well- liked is the glaze, described by devotees as having a "perfect, light consistency." Regular glazed and glazed old-fashioned are the most popular and the prices are among the cheapest in town.
CK's Doughnuts
8333 Folsom Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95826
(916) 381-3818
It's been around for 13 years and regulars return because they like the creamy batter. Like other donut shots, freebie donut holes are sometimes included with orders.
Donut King
7401 Greenback Ln
Citrus Heights, CA 95610
(916) 721-8687
Neighborhood: Citrus Heights
Is there anything better than a 24-hour donut shop? This suburban location is known for its friendly staff and frequent visitors who return for two particular donuts — the apple fitter and old-fashioned maple. And, of course, they're available 24/7.
Howard's Donuts
2340 Sunrise Blvd
Gold River, CA 95670
(916) 638-7509
A family owned shop that's served several generations of families.
Everyone has a favorite glaze or chocolate covering. Lots of folks swear by those two offerings at Howard's. And early birds in need of a sugar fix are in luck; the place opens at 4:30 a.m.
Marie's Donuts
2950 Freeport Blvd
Sacramento, CA 95818
(916) 444-5245
Donut connoisseurs know the secret. If you're out late or up early, Marie's opens at 2 a.m., and its always-fresh donuts are at their freshest. It's difficult to pick a favorite, but the maple bars really work.
Premium Donuts
8065 Elk Grove Florin Rd., Suite #130
Sacramento, CA 95829
(916) 689-2828
Known for its friendly service and smiling owner. Beware, the donut hole supply can be depleted by noon.
Stanely's Donuts
3710 J Street
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 454-3922
Squeezed into small corner space and with across the street from the two most well-known coffee houses, Starbucks and Peet's, the independent business holds its own. Favorites include arguably the best apple fritter in Sacramento and an equally fine Maple Bar. One devotee describes the donuts as "righteous." Regulars often find free donut holes included with their orders.
Yum, Yum Donut Shop
3671 Franklin Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95818
(916) 453-9193
The business began in 1971 in Highland Park, CA and now it's franchised around the state. Longevity usually means good things in small business, and it does with Yum Yum. More than 70 varieties of donuts, 24 hours a day. Any questions?
- James Raia is a freelance journalist living in Sacramento. His work can be found at byjamesraia.com.