When it comes to culinary delights, Louisville, Kentucky, is often associated with its famed fried chicken and fast food joints. However, nestled within the city’s vibrant culinary scene lies a hidden gem – a plethora of exquisite doughnut shops waiting to be discovered.
Louisville boasts some of the finest doughnuts you’ll find across America. Whether you crave the simplicity of a classic glazed treat or the extravagance of specialty delights, the city offers a diverse array of options to tantalize your taste buds.
With numerous establishments vying for attention, choosing the perfect spot can be a daunting task. Fear not, as we present a curated selection of the most renowned doughnut destinations in Louisville, offering a sneak peek into their delectable offerings.
1. Jeff’s Donuts
Jeff’s Donuts stands as a testament to history, delighting patrons for over four decades since its inception in 1979 by founders Jeff Brown and Diana Green. With a legacy spanning 45 years, this Louisville institution offers an extensive menu featuring over 40 delectable varieties, including the famed Long Johns and Bismarks. Open 24/7 at all locations except Village Market, Jeff’s is the go-to destination for satisfying late-night cravings. Be sure to indulge in their Texas-sized doughnuts, creamy delights, and the signature Orange Cream Dream.
- Location: 6401 New Dutchmans Pkwy Louisville, KY 40205
- Open Hours: Open 24/7
- Must Try: Long Johns, Bismarks, Texas-sized doughnuts, Orange Cream Dream
- Price for 2: Approximately $20
2. Hi-Five Doughnuts
As the first female-owned doughnut shop in Louisville since 2013, Hi-Five Doughnuts has been a trailblazer in the industry. Offering brioche-style yeast doughnuts with customizable glazes and toppings, patrons can tailor their sweet indulgence to their preferences. Don’t miss their unique flavors like Bourbon caramel and toppings such as Cinnamon Toast Crunch, along with signature delights like the Kentucky Fried Buttermilk Chicken Doughnut Sandwich.
- Location: 1011 East Main Street, Butchertown, Louisville
- Open Hours: Wed – Fri: 7 am to 12 pm; Sat-Sun: 8 am to 12 pm; Mon-Tue: Closed
- Must Try: Bourbon caramel topping, Cinnamon Toast Crunch
- Price for 2: Approximately $20
3. Sugar & Spice Donut Shop
Since 1982, Sugar & Spice Donut Shop has been a beloved fixture, offering over 30 delightful flavors to patrons. Indulge in treats like Peanut Butter Fudge Bar, Coconut Custard, and the best-selling Banana Cream Pie. With a cozy ambiance and a blend of traditional and fancy options, Sugar & Spice caters to every palate.
- Location: 5613 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY 40291
- Open Hours: Mon-Fri: 5:00 am – 12:00 pm; Sat-Sun: 5:00 am – 2:00 pm
- Must Try: Peanut Butter Fudge Bar, Coconut Custard, Banana Cream Pie
- Price for 2: Approximately $20
4. King Donuts
For a taste of old-fashioned delights, King Donuts is the place to be. Offering a variety of fresh, yeasty treats and cake doughnuts, indulge in classics like glazed rings and twists, alongside specialty options such as blueberry cake and apple fritters. With multiple locations across the city, savor the magic of King Donuts at your convenience.
- Location: 608 Lyndon Lane, Louisville, KY, US 40222
- Open Hours: Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat – 5 am to 5 pm; Sun, Mon, Fri – 5 am to 4 pm
- Must Try: Glazed and frosted cake donuts, blueberry cake donuts, apple fritters
- Price for 2: Approximately $20
5. Plehn’s Bakery
Since 1924, Plehn’s Bakery has been a cherished Louisville staple, offering an extensive selection of sweet treats. From classic flavors like chocolate cake to specialty options like sugary cinnamon twists, Plehn’s caters to every craving. Don’t miss their assortment of cakes, cookies, and homemade ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.
- Location: 3940 Shelbyville Rd., Louisville, KY 40207
- Open Hours: Tue-Fri – 7 am to 5 pm; Sat – 6.30 am to 5 pm; Mon-Closed
- Must Try: Chocolate cake doughnuts, Sugary cinnamon twists, Orange blossom sweets
- Price for 2: Approximately $20
6. Nord’s Bakery
Renowned for its heavenly baked and deep-fried treats, Nord’s Bakery offers over twenty varieties of doughnuts to tantalize your taste buds. From unique creations like French Fry and Maple Bacon doughnuts to weekend specials like red velvet and pumpkin spice cake, Nord’s promises an unforgettable experience. Be sure to try their signature maple bacon long john for a savory-sweet delight.
- Location: 2118 S. Preston, Louisville, KY 402017
- Open Hours: 6 am to 2 pm daily
- Must Try: Maple Bacon Doughnuts, Red Velvet Doughnuts, Pumpkin Spice Cake
- Price for 2: Approximately $20
7. Clifton Donut Shop
For a cozy, mom-and-pop shop experience, look no further than Clifton Donut Shop. With a charming interior and freshly baked treats made in-house, it radiates warmth and sweetness. Indulge in their famous Blueberry Cake Donut, made with all-natural fruits, or venture into the realm of innovation with the Tronut – a delightful fusion of doughnut, cruller, and croissant.
- Location: 2317 Brownsboro Rd., Louisville, KY, US 40206
- Open Hours: Tue-Fri – 5.30 am to 1 pm; Sat-Sun – 6 am to 1 pm; Mon – Closed
- Must Try: Blueberry Cake Donut, Tronut
- Price for 2: Approximately $20
Embark on a doughnut exploration journey across Louisville and treat yourself to these irresistible sweet delights. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these doughnut destinations promise an unforgettable culinary experience.