When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Dat Donut
Why Dat Donut is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dat Donut in Chicago offers a memorable and delicious spot for friends to gather and enjoy some of the city's best fresh donuts. Known for their donuts that "melt in your mouth," this shop is praised for its consistent quality and friendly atmosphere, making it a welcoming place for people to meet up. Their menu features unique treats including a "giant donut," which has become a bucket-list item for first-time visitors. The shop is highly favored for its fresh baked goods that appeal even to those who typically shy away from sweets. With operating hours that accommodate early risers and late evening seekers, Dat Donut provides a convenient and tasty stop for both casual meetups and special occasions. The establishment's blend of nostalgic flavor and innovative offerings ensures it is a vibrant community hub where customers can enjoy a sweet treat while sharing good times with friends and family.
Here's what people think of Dat Donut
As of recent, Dat Donut holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1854 reviews.
Customer reviews for Dat Donut reveal strong appreciation for its tasty, fresh donuts and pleasant shop experience. Positive feedback frequently mentions how the donuts are delicious and satisfying, with many customers highlighting the specialty items such as the giant donut. Reviewers often comment on the shop's ability to please even non-sweet eaters, and describe the atmosphere as friendly and reliable, making it a favored weekend destination. On the negative side, some critiques focus on pricing being somewhat higher compared to other donut shops and concerns about advertising practices related to an affiliated barbecue restaurant, which some customers found misleading. Additionally, employee reviews reflect some challenges with workplace culture and management, illustrating a contrast between the customer experience and internal operations. Overall, the customer sentiment remains largely positive, with many patrons recommending Dat Donut for its tasty products and welcoming environment despite some operational critiques and pricing considerations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Caroline Mejia
My husband and I met in college and would go get donuts from here with friends. When planning our wedding we knew we wanted to incorporate little notes of 'us' into the celebration and decided to order big dats in lieu of wedding cake. The ordering process was quick and easy. We had family pick up the order the day of in between the ceremony and the reception without issue. The big dats were a HUGE hit with our guests! (not to mention they fit with our Lord of the Rings theme -One Ring to Rule Them All) Pictures by TWA Photographic Artists
Max Horner
I stopped by Dat Donut and really enjoyed it. The strawberry glazed donut was soft and full of flavor, and the Boston cream was rich and tasty. Everything was fresh and made with care. The staff was friendly and made the visit easy. I’ll definitely be coming back for more.
TheBigBandWolf
I had a chocolate glazed donut and an egg and cheese croissant while my wife had a glazed donut. My croissant was delicious. It was hot, fresh and the scrambled egg was fluffy as the lady made it fresh and you can tell by its well scrambled lightness you get when you whisk and egg well. They have a new repeat client whenever I’m in the area. I’m gonna go back and buy a dozen for the fellas at work as I told them about how good they are and well priced.
Sharice Johnson
Wanted to give this place a try since it seemed to be one of the most popular ones for donuts in the area. We got a half dozen donuts (chocolate glazed, strawberry glazed and blueberry) 2 of each. My husband went at a decent time in the morning, around 10ish. Still no chocolate glazed donuts 😒 so I got chocolate iced instead. The donuts were really really good. They tasted fresh and flavorful. But, the 1st thing I noticed when he got back was that they stuffed these 6 donuts into a bag, instead of putting them in a box 🫤 oooooooookay….. b/c they were packed like this, some of them got messed up in travel. The croissants they used for the breakfast sandwich tasted like fries! And after reading a few of the other reviews that mention their donuts tasted like bbq, it’s apparent that they use the SAME GREASE to fry the donuts as they do the bbq food and fries…. Disgusting 🤮 I’m glad my donuts didn’t taste like bbq but after that experience, I will not be returning. Fresh ingredients at food establishments is key & they majorly missed the mark 🤷🏽♀️ We also got 2 turkey sausage breakfast sandwiches.
Angie Morales
This was my first time trying Dat Donut. I got a bacon, egg & cheese croissant & a mango smoothie. I gave the croissant 5 stars & the mango smoothie 4 stars.
How to reach Dat Donut
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Why Dat Donut may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dat Donut with your friends? Because it’s not just a place to grab a snack; it’s a destination where fun, flavor, and shared moments collide in the best way. Dat Donut offers a unique experience centered around their signature Texas-style donuts, which are massive—around 10 inches in diameter—and perfect for sharing among two or three friends. This makes it a natural gathering spot for anyone looking to indulge in something sweet and memorable together. Beyond the delicious treat, the atmosphere fosters a sense of community and joy around food that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re catching up with longtime friends, celebrating a casual occasion, or just looking for a fun weekend outing, Dat Donut provides a setting that invites laughter, conversation, and a bit of delightful indulgence. The combination of quality, size, and the social element of sharing turns a simple donut run into a communal event everyone will remember.
What activities can you do at Dat Donut, and why is it perfect for a group meetup? First, indulging in the novelty of these giant donuts is an activity in itself. The sheer size makes it fun and engaging, turning an ordinary sweet treat into a shared experience. When you order one of these oversized treats, it naturally brings your group closer as you share bite after bite, sparking conversation about flavors and textures. Beyond just donuts, Dat Donut offers a range of options, including breakfast sandwiches that cater to a variety of tastes, making the spot suitable for both morning meetups and casual brunches. The inviting environment lets groups linger comfortably while savoring their food. Additionally, the shop encourages a relaxed vibe, making it easy to hang out without feeling rushed—perfect for groups who want to catch up and enjoy each other’s company.
Why is the donut selection at Dat Donut ideal for group gatherings? The standout offering is, of course, the Texas-style donuts that are large enough to be shared, transforming a simple snack into a communal treat. These donuts aren’t just about size; they’re praised for their fresh, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavors. Some favorites include classic glazed, strawberry-flavored, and other rotating specialties that balance sweetness without overwhelming the palate. This variety makes it easy for any group member to find something they enjoy, including those who may not have a huge sweet tooth. The novelty factor of the giant donut also represents a fun photo opportunity and conversation starter, enhancing the overall meetup experience. For groups who want options beyond donuts, there are breakfast sandwiches that complement the sweet dishes, meaning friends can enjoy a balanced, satisfying meal together.
What makes the environment at Dat Donut conducive to socializing and group meetups? The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. The staff’s friendly service contributes to making every visit a pleasant experience, encouraging groups to feel at home. The shop is often described as a “go-to spot” for a quick meal or a relaxed gathering. Its location and layout support group dynamics by offering enough seating or space where friends can sit comfortably to share food and stories. The clean, vibrant interior adds to the inviting feel, making it suitable for families, friend groups, and even casual business meetings looking for a sweet spot with character. The experience is enhanced by the positive reviews emphasizing freshness and quality, which assures groups that their time together will be enriched by great food.
How does Dat Donut accommodate different group needs and preferences? Whether your group consists of classic donut lovers, adventurous eaters, or even those who prefer something savory, Dat Donut has options that cater to a wide range of tastes. The inclusion of breakfast sandwiches allows for a more substantial meal alongside the sweet treats, accommodating those who may be less interested in sugary options. The size of the donuts promotes sharing, which reduces the cost per person and increases the social bond over splitting a fun, oversized snack. For groups celebrating something special, the uniqueness of the giant donut offers a novelty factor that enhances the occasion. Moreover, the shop’s dedication to freshness and high-quality ingredients reassures groups that the food will be consistently enjoyable, making repeat visits likely when planning future meetups.
Why should families choose Dat Donut for their gathering? Families appreciate spaces where both kids and adults can enjoy themselves, and Dat Donut fits the bill perfectly. The playful size and taste appeal of the donuts excite children and provide a fun way for families to share treats. Parents can enjoy conversation and relaxation while their kids delight in a sweet surprise that’s different from the typical bakery experience. Additionally, the presence of both sweet and savory menu items means that even picky eaters or those seeking less sugary alternatives can find satisfying choices. The friendly environment and steady stream of positive reviews from families underline that this is a place where all ages feel welcome and valued.
What makes Dat Donut stand out compared to other donut shops? While many donut shops offer a variety of traditional sweets, Dat Donut’s claim to fame lies in its giant Texas-style donuts, a novelty that draws crowds eager for a shared, interactive eating experience. The quality and freshness come highly praised, affirming that the shop doesn’t sacrifice taste for size. Additionally, Dat Donut’s local popularity and high average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from over 1800 reviews reflect a strong, consistent customer satisfaction. This reputation turns it into a trusted space for meetups, ensuring groups get a dependable, delicious, and enjoyable outing every time. Moreover, patrons mention the friendly vibe and excellent service, elements that elevate the overall experience beyond just the food.
How can you maximize your group meetup experience at Dat Donut? Consider ordering a mix of the huge Texas-style donuts along with breakfast sandwiches to cater to all tastes within your group. Sharing these generously sized treats encourages interaction and makes the meetup feel special and communal. Arrive during less busy hours if your group prefers a quieter atmosphere to chat and relax. Bringing along cameras or smartphones can capture the fun moments with these giant, photogenic donuts, creating memorable keepsakes from your gathering. Engaging with the friendly staff can also enrich your experience as they can offer recommendations or details on new flavors and specials. Planning your visit around any special offers or events Dat Donut might have further enhances the value and enjoyment for your group.
Why is Dat Donut a memorable place for celebrations and casual meetups alike? Its blend of creativity, quality, and community focus makes Dat Donut a versatile venue. Whether celebrating a birthday, a casual weekend catch-up, or simply craving a sweet escape, this donut shop adapts perfectly to a variety of social occasions. The tactile fun of tearing apart a giant donut, the smiles it brings, and the shared enjoyment foster a sense of togetherness. Plus, the consistent rave reviews demonstrate that, beyond novelty, the taste and service back up the unique concept. The environment encourages lingering and relaxed socializing, proving that Dat Donut is much more than just a place to buy donuts — it’s a space for making moments with friends and family truly special.