When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
I'm donut ? times square
Why I'm donut ? times square is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
I'm Donut? in Times Square offers a unique and innovative donut experience that stands out uniquely amidst the bright lights and bustling crowds of New York City. Specializing in Japanese-style nama donuts, these brioche-based treats are fluffy, moist, and delightfully light, with a honeycomb-like interior achieved by incorporating kabocha squash into the dough. Founded by renowned Japanese chef Ryouta Hirako, the shop reflects a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary creativity, providing both sweet and savory options suitable for any time of day. Located at 154 West 45th Street, the minimalist white facade with a floating question mark invites curiosity, making it an appealing meeting spot with friends. Although the shop is small with no seating, its open kitchen design allows guests to view chefs skillfully filling donuts onsite with inventive fillings like sake cream and scrambled eggs. Visitors often place orders in advance to efficiently manage the steady flow of dessert enthusiasts lining up outside. The fresh, melt-in-your-mouth texture, coupled with meticulous daily handmade preparation, ensures an unforgettable treat experience that has made I'm Donut? a viral sensation and a must-visit for donut lovers and tourists in Times Square.
Here's what people think of I'm donut ? times square
As of recent, I'm donut ? times square holds a 4-star rating based on 361 reviews.
User reviews generally praise I'm Donut? for its exceptional quality and the unique texture of its nama donuts, which are described as fluffy, pillowy, and surprisingly moist, challenging traditional donut expectations. Positive reviews highlight the inventive flavor combinations such as Caramel Espresso Cream, Pistachio White Chocolate, and a savory NY BLT, noting the brand's meticulous attention to detail, from the preparation to the packaging. Many appreciate the innovative approach of offering both sweet and savory donuts that can be enjoyed throughout the day. The open kitchen and speedy service receiving compliments for efficiency despite the popular demand. However, some negative feedback centers on the shop's Times Square location, which some find off-putting due to heavy foot traffic, high prices, and long lines typical of the area. A few reviewers mention that the lack of seating means customers must take their orders elsewhere to enjoy. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment is positive, with most customers agreeing that the quality and novelty of the donuts justify the hype and make the experience worthwhile. The consistent 4.0-star rating from 361 reviews reflects a strong reception with minor reservations related primarily to the location and pricing rather than the product itself.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
K VC
3.5 Near busy Times Square area so very accessible by public transportation. An employee was managing the people traffic inside so we were asked to wait outside, but not too long. He was very pleasant. The store had clean decor, We joined a line inside, and given an order form (indicated the # of each item we wanted). Handed the form to the cashier, paid and waited. So many employees behind the counter, but mostly no smiles; one of them had a dirty apron. Our order was nicely packaged and bagged. I prefer filled donuts ($7-$11 each, not cheap!) so got the custard and sake cream. I do like the texture of the donuts and they're not too sweet. Sake cream flavor was ok, different but not wowed and at the price of $10. Could go for custard again but at $7, I prob won't be returning as often. No seating. No restrooms.
Chloe K C
Definitely worth the trip! You have to go early in the morning, otherwise be prepared for a long wait. The donuts are incredibly soft, light, and not overly sweet—just perfect. My absolute favorite was the custard-filled one, so creamy and delicious!
Albert Chan
Like its name - it's not what you would expect from a regular donut. It's more airy and less sweet which I do prefer over your standard DD donuts. The different flavors were quite good and spot on. Lucky for me when I went today there was no line but when I left there was a long que. You are greeted immediately, given a menu to tick off your selection and lineup within. Inside is basically just a long counter where you place your order while you have a full view of the kitchen.
Mind Thamaratanasiri
We love I’m donut? so much when we first ate it in Tokyo. We love the fluffiness and less sweet donuts they have. So I want to try their special donut only in NY store so bad. The queue is not long,only 5-10 mins. The store is quite small so they made us wait in line outside so the inside is not too cramped. While you wait in line, the staff will give you an order sheet to select your wanted donuts. I loved their Sake one so much. You will get a little aroma of Sake when you had it. Their NY specialty was so-so. Too sweet for savory burgers. Btw, don’t plan of having donut the next day. It’s only good on that day.
Aleen K
It really doesn’t have an atmosphere, it’s truly just business. You place your order in the line outside the store and once you’re inside, you pay and the order is fulfilled. Very nice variety of donuts; it’s the experience. We tried originals and NYC ones. Delicious and unique. Not your daily donut spot, but one for the NYC experience I would say.
How to reach I'm donut ? times square
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Why I'm donut ? times square may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at I'm Donut? Times Square with your friends? This unique donut shop in the heart of New York City’s Times Square offers an irresistibly fresh and playful culinary experience that stands apart in a sea of ordinary snack options. If your group is looking for a destination to gather, enjoy delicious treats, and immerse in a vibe that’s both modern and iconic, I’m Donut? is an ideal choice. Their signature "nama" donuts—Japanese-style, light, and fluffy with a honeycomb-like interior—create a memorable taste sensation that’s perfect for sharing and savoring together. The shop’s sleek, minimalist design with its striking floating question mark sign makes it a fun photo backdrop and a great spot to create social media moments that spark conversation and connection. Whether for casual hangouts, birthday meetups, or just spontaneous group outings, the buzz around the shop—highlighted by hundreds of rave reviews averaging a solid 4.0 rating—ensures an energetic, crowd-pleasing atmosphere. Plus, its central Times Square location means it’s easy to reach and fits perfectly into a day of exploring the city with friends or family. In short, I’m Donut? provides a unique mix of taste, ambiance, and social energy that makes rallying here a rewarding group experience.
What activities can you do at I’m Donut? Times Square as a group? While the shop itself does not have seating areas inside, the activities for groups revolve primarily around indulging in its unique donuts and enjoying the lively, fast-paced environment. The experience starts with ordering from a lineup where the anticipation builds as you watch chefs create these fluffy masterpieces right behind a glass wall—a bit like an interactive culinary show. This window into their kitchen lets groups bond over the artistry of donut-making, observing how the kabocha squash dough is piped and filled with inventive flavors such as sake cream, scrambled eggs, or matcha-infused fillings. Sharing a box of assorted flavors encourages tasting and comparison, sparking lively discussions and surprise discoveries that make the outing interactive rather than just about eating. Outside, Times Square itself offers enough excitement and photo ops to extend your meetup, providing a vibrant urban playground that complements the foodie experience. So, while seated dining isn’t an option, the combination of visual spectacle, shared indulgence, and the iconic location makes I’m Donut? a perfect group spot for creating memories beyond just a meal.
Why is I’m Donut? Times Square perfect for a group meetup? Several factors make this spot particularly suited for groups of friends or family looking to gather and enjoy a fun outing. First, the donuts are made to be shared—each box can hold multiple flavors, which invites everyone to try a bite or more and compare favorites. The branding and product are culturally trendy, especially appealing to younger crowds who value novelty and uniquely Instagrammable treats, so it naturally sparks excitement and group engagement. Despite its location in the typically hectic Times Square, I’m Donut? manages brisk service that keeps lines moving, allowing groups not to waste too much meetup time waiting. The store is also wheelchair accessible with helpful staff, making it inclusive for all group members. Additionally, the packaged donuts can be taken anywhere, encouraging groups to explore the nearby parks or walk around the neighborhood while enjoying their sweet treats. This flexibility helps tailor the meetup experience to the group’s preference, whether standing just outside on a bench, strolling, or moving on to the next destination.
What makes the donuts at I’m Donut? stand out from typical bakery options? These donuts are not only visually distinctive but also texturally and flavor-wise unlike traditional American donuts. Crafted from a brioche-like dough enriched with kabocha squash, the donuts achieve a rare “nama” quality meaning fresh and almost raw in softness, making them incredibly moist and light. Biting into one, you encounter a melt-in-your-mouth softness with a delicate honeycomb crumb inside, which confounds expectations as it balances fluffiness with a nearly translucent center. Unlike ordinary donuts, these do not have holes in the middle but come dusted with powdered sugar to maintain the iconic donut look. The filling options are eclectic and sophisticated, ranging from strong, earthy green tea creams to unexpected savory flavors like a New York-inspired BLT cream. This thoughtful approach to flavor and texture elevates the experience considerably, turning each donut into a conversation piece for groups eager to discuss and savor what they’re tasting.
How does the location of I’m Donut? enhance your meetup experience? Being situated on 154 W 45th Street in Times Square places I’m Donut? in one of the most bustling, energetic areas of New York City known for its bright lights, street performers, and extensive entertainment options. This location is a major advantage for groups wanting to combine their sweet treat outing with sightseeing or other activities in the area. After picking up your donuts, your group can stroll through Times Square’s plazas, snap pictures with costumed characters, or visit nearby attractions like Broadway theaters, Bryant Park, or Rockefeller Center, all within walking distance. The central spot also makes it easy for members coming from different parts of the city to meet up without hassle. While Times Square is sometimes critiqued for being tourist-heavy and crowded, for groups, it means there’s always something happening, ensuring your meetup remains lively and engaging long after you finish your donuts.
What should groups know before visiting I’m Donut?? It’s important to plan ahead for the peak times, as lines can be long due to the shop’s popularity and the limited hours of operation (generally closing by 4 PM, with closures on Monday and Tuesday). Ordering in advance using the available clipboards can speed up the process and reduce wait times. Since seating inside is not offered, groups should be prepared to eat on the go or bring their purchases to a nearby resting spot. Pricing tends to be on the premium side, reflecting the artisanal nature of the donuts and the prime location, but many reviewers agree the quality justifies the cost. Accessibility is excellent, with staff ready to assist, making the experience comfortable for all visitors. Finally, because this is a viral hit from Japan making its first U.S. appearance here, expect a lively atmosphere and a chance to participate in a global trend with your friends or family.
In summary, I’m Donut? Times Square offers a distinctive cultural and culinary outing for groups seeking a sweet, shareable delight coupled with the unbeatable energy of one of the world’s most famous urban hubs. Whether you come to admire the craft, taste creative flavors, or simply enjoy the bustle of New York with loved ones, it’s a memorable venue for any group meetup.