Best Donut Shops in Portland, Oregon
If I’m being honest, donuts are my vice—and probably the number one reason for the “dad bod” in Dad Bod Abroad. Whether I’m celebrating something or just craving something sweet and fried, donuts are my go-to indulgence. And luckily for me (and you), Portland, Oregon is one of the best cities in the country for donuts.
From classic cake rings to plant-based masterpieces and mochi-style innovations, Portland’s donut scene is ridiculously good. Whether you’re a local or just in town for the food, these are the best donut shops in Portland that you absolutely need to try. Bonus: some even give you free donuts on your birthday. Dangerous, I know.
Doe Donuts
Location: 4110 NE Sandy Blvd Portland, OR 97212
Best For: Vegan donuts in Portland, seasonal flavors, savory brunch bites
DBA Recommendation: Breakfast sandwich, Passionfruit (seasonal), Chicken Parm (seasonal)
As someone who has to pop at least 10 lactose pills before eating dairy (and even then, it’s a gamble), knowing that a place like Doe Donuts exists is an absolute godsend. If you’re looking for vegan donuts in Portland, Doe is the queen bee. This 100% plant-based, woman-owned small business serves up rotating seasonal donuts that range from nostalgic (cookie dough and sprinkles) to downright inventive (grapefruit rosemary? Yes, please).
Don’t skip their vegan breakfast sandwich—soft dough with savory toppings, I can’t believe how good it tasted the first time I tried it. It’s also a great stop if you’re trying to impress a non-vegan friend without telling them it’s all dairy-free.
I haven’t made it to their ice cream yet—mostly because I’m usually walking out with a dozen donuts and zero self-control left.
Pip’s Original Donuts & Chai
Location: 4759 NE Fremont St, Portland, OR 97213
Best For: Made-to-order mini donuts, free birthday donuts, chai flights,
My Recommendation: Cinnamon Sugar, Nutella & Sea Salt, The King & I & Japanese Garden (Sandy’s picks since I don’t really drink tea)
Pip’s is a family-owned Portland donut shop icon known for two things: hot mini donuts made to order and their epic chai tea options. Each donut is made fresh and served warm, with toppings like cinnamon sugar (classic, but my favorite), Nutella (my other favorite), honey & sea salt, candied bacon maple, and seasonal flavors.
Pro tip: If it’s your actual birthday, you get a free dozen donuts. No purchase necessary, just show ID. If your birthday falls on a Tuesday when they’re closed, don’t worry—you can snag your free dozen the next day (Wednesday), as long as they’re open.
Coco Donuts
Locations: 709 Southwest 17th Avenue, Portland, OR 97205 (flagship) + multiple locations
Best For: Classic donuts, Mochi donuts
DBA Recommendations: Jelly-filled donut, Apple Fritter
I was pleasantly surprised the first time I tried Coco Donuts. I’m a sucker for jelly-filled anything, but their apple fritter really won me over. Coco keeps it classic but cool with a Japanese twist—their mochi donuts are delightfully chewy and unique. Pair one with a matcha latte or cold brew, and you’ve got the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Sesame Donuts
Location: 6990 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy, Portland, OR 97225 (flagship) + other local spots
Best For: Classic donuts
DBA Recommendation: Guava jelly-filled, Lemon jelly-filled (told you I like jelly), Glazed
If you’re craving a good old-fashioned donut—no glitter, no fancy glaze—head to Sesame Donuts, a beloved Portland donut chain that’s been around since 1999. Owned by Haidar Fakih, this local favorite pays homage to his Middle Eastern roots with the signature sesame donut, which is lightly sweet and uniquely satisfying.
Their original store in Raleigh Hills is still going strong, and it’s the kind of place where locals gather, kids get sticky fingers, and coffee is always brewing.
Blue Star Donuts
Locations: 1701 SW Jefferson St, Portland, OR 97201 (flagship) + multiple locations
Best For: Artisan donuts, vegan options, gourmet flavors
DBA Recommendations:
Blue Star is one of the most well-known Portland donut shops. They focus on “donuts for grown-ups”, meaning you’ll find options like Blueberry Bourbon Basil or Passionfruit Cocoa Nib.
They also have a great vegan donut selection, and their brioche-style dough makes everything a little richer and more refined. If you’re visiting Portland and want an upscale donut experience, Blue Star delivers.
Want to Try Portland Donuts Without Driving All Over Town?
If you’re short on time but still want to sample Portland’s best local donuts and get a taste of the city’s culture, architecture, and history while you’re at it, check out this Portland donut walking tour which hits up 2 of the donuts shop on my list as well as some of my favorite downtown cultural venues. It’s a great way to hit a few highlights without spending all day behind the wheel—or in a sugar coma.
Donut Hack: The Ultimate Campfire Treat
And if you’re more the DIY type (or just need an excuse to buy “plain” donuts), check out my easy camp grilled donut + fresh berry sauce recipe. It’s ridiculously simple, wildly delicious, and perfect for your next camping trip or backyard hang. Think of it as s’mores’ cooler cousin.
Out of Time for a Donut Shop Run?
If you’re short on time but still need a sugar fix, swing by any Fred Meyer—they’ve got Krispy Kreme donuts stashed by the self-checkout like a sweet little secret. I’ve been known to grab a box and treat them like edible, perishable life preservers on my nature tours. Not artisanal, but absolutely clutch in a pinch.