Canada has a sweet secret that might surprise you. We proudly hold the title of the world's leading donut consumer, with over 1 billion donuts eaten every year.
London, Ontario undoubtedly plays a big role in this sugary statistic, thanks to our flourishing community of artisanal donut makers. Skilled local bakers make life in London a little sweeter with their inventive takes on donuts, crafting beloved classics as well as innovative combinations that push the boundaries for what a donut (or doughnut??) can be.
happiness Café
For many, the terms "donut" and "happiness" are practically interchangeable. This belief reigns true at Happiness Café, where their service, ambiance and delectable desserts radiate joy. Happiness distinguishes themselves by ensuring that each of their donuts comes with a tasty filling, making every bite an extraordinary experience. They excel in crafting a variety of other desserts but look at these vanilla custard donuts and try to order something else, we dare you!
Boxcar Donuts
Starting as a humble husband and wife's venture, Boxcar Donuts has grown to be one of London's most iconic donut brands. Although the menu includes all of your favourite classics, their rotating cast of new creations is what truly shines. Every week, they unveil a new selection of innovative flavours like cherry Kool-Aid, matcha salted pistachio and even special collaborations like the sweet and savory fried chicken donut in partnership with London’s own BTRMLK. Their mission is clear: produce the finest donuts in Southwestern Ontario and work their way up to earning Canada’s cruller crown.
V Food Spot
Those with dietary restrictions, worry not! V Food Spot has been serving up delicious vegan options since 2017. As winner of the 2019 London’s Community Votes Donuts, V Food Spot proves that you don't need animal products to create a mouthwatering treat. From flavours like blue raspberry and pumpkin spice latte to cosmic brownie and beyond, there’s something for everyone. For adventurous eaters, they offer a mystery box containing a randomized selection of six popular flavours.
Dough EV
Since opening in 2023, Dough EV has taken the Old East Village by storm with their desire to create quality donuts made with simple ingredients. Their (mostly) vegan donut menu is packed with nostalgia thanks to seasonal flavours with old school favourites sprinkled in. Enjoy their classic Simpsons pink donut or flavours like sugar and spice, lemon meringue, cookie butter and more. Their made-fresh-daily donuts, trendy t-shirts and on-site bean wizards create an unmatched ambience worth sinking your teeth into.
Lynn's Bakery
A beloved staple in London's bakery scene, Lynn's Bakery & Deli takes great pride in creating delectable donuts like birthday cake, Boston cream, cherry cheesecake, maple dip and more. From the first bite to the last crumb, freshness is their priority. You can now find their sweet treats at cherished downtown café, Commonwealth Coffee Co. Commonwealth knows good coffee pairs perfectly with a morning donut, so their Happy Hour lets you get both for only $5 from 8:00am – 10:00am every day!
culbert's bakery
As a beloved new addition to Covent Garden Market, Culbert’s Bakery has quickly charmed London’s donut lovers. Their secret weapon? Heavenly cream puffs, lovingly dressed in powdered sugar. Pillows and clouds are nice, but nothing is quite as fluffy and light as Culbert's signature cream. This isn’t just a puff piece; Culbert’s is truly worthy of their cult-like following.
bk Bakery
In late 2023, the BK Bakery opened in 100 Kellogg Lane, and with that came the BK Bakery Vanilla Glazed Yeast Donut. This donut has become known for its pillowy texture and perfectly sweet Madagascar vanilla bean glaze that melts in your mouth, creating an indulgent morning (or any time of day) experience. With BK’s aspirations to expand their menu to include an array of delectable donut varieties, you'll want to try them all!
HONOURABLE MENTIONS
Dough bits Dessert House
Dough Bits Dessert House earns an honourable mention for their unique bite-sized creations that have garnered a loyal following. Emerging from within Tahinis, a local shawarma spot that has now expanded to over 30 locations across Canada, Dough Bits has ingeniously reimagined the classic Egyptian dessert "Zalabya" to appeal to a new audience. These golden and crispy delights have a delicate and airy interior and are generously drizzled with sweet syrups such as honey, lotus biscoff and salted caramel. For a perfect snack experience, mix and match with your preferred crunchy toppings!
The Donut Diva
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While not a traditional brick-and-mortar establishment, The Donut Diva food truck brings devourable donuts to events throughout the year, including the popular Heeman's Food Trucks on the Farm. The Gourmet Mini Donut Ice Cream Sundae is a must-try menu item and a mouthwatering treat perfect for summer days.
Mr. Puffs
Mr. Puffs is another dessert shop that transforms donuts into devilishly delicious bite-sized snacks. You can find these puffy perfections drizzled in cinnamon, cappuccino, hazelnut biscotti and just about every flavour you could ever want. Be warned – once you pick up the puffs, they’re hard to put down.
Whether you're a London local looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a traveller looking to start your visit on a sweet note, London has something satisfying in store for you.
Get out and #ExploreLdnOnt and be sure to tag @TourismLondon when you share a photo of your beautifully crafted treat.
