When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts
Why Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts is a cherished donut shop located in Chicago's Roseland neighborhood, renowned for its delectable, oversized treats like Texas glazed donuts, giant croissants, and apple fritters. Established in 1972 by Buritt Bulloch (known as Mr. B), this family-operated shop offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends and indulging in nostalgic, handcrafted donuts made fresh daily. Open six days a week from early morning to evening, the shop’s welcoming vibe and historic legacy make it a favorite local gathering spot. A highlight is their beloved buttermilk cake donut, a testament to authentic, old-fashioned recipes that continue to delight patrons. The large variety of sweet treats and a reputation gained from accolades such as Yelp’s Elite Squad recognition as the best donut shop in Illinois in 2024 add to the appeal. Whether you're stopping in for a morning coffee paired with a giant glazed donut or seeking a unique donut experience with family and friends, Mr. B's offers a comforting environment and classic flavors that create memorable moments.
Here's what people think of Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts
As of recent, Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts holds a 4.3-star rating based on 102 reviews.
Reviews of Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts show a very positive customer experience reflected in their 4.3-star rating from over 100 reviews. Customers consistently praise the shop for the quality and size of their donuts, calling them 'incredibly good' and 'crazy amazing.' Many highlight the shop's longstanding history and consistent excellence, with some noting the nostalgic feeling and the friendly family-run atmosphere. Positive reviews often mention the giant donuts, apple fritters, and the exceptional taste that keeps customers coming back, suggesting the shop is a staple in the community worth the visit, even if slightly off the typical path. On the downside, some reviewers mention occasional issues with availability, noting that popular items may sell out early in the day, so arriving early is recommended. A few comments indicate space can get crowded during peak hours, which might affect the overall experience for some visitors. Overall, the reviews emphasize the outstanding donuts and the genuine charm of the shop, cementing its reputation as a must-visit for donut lovers in Chicago and beyond.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael Baraz
Best apple fritter anywhere! And they come I. Small, large and extra large (nearly the size of a pie!!). It is crisp on the outside and chock-full of apple. It is decadent and splendid beyond words. The rest of their donuts look great but I don't go there often enough so I can't pass on the chance to get another apple fritter. And, it is such a delight to support an independent business that clearly enjoys serving their customers. I don't know if there is actually a Mr. B, but I always look, hoping to tell him personally how much I appreciate his shop, the people who work there, and of course, the amazing apple fritters. It's a little bit off the beaten path (I-290), but well worth the few minutes extra!
Steve Sabu
Donuts are great. They taste fresh and delicious. Many different types to choose from. They are soft and tasty. The coffee is also great. Served hot and fresh. Service was great as well. The area surrounding is rough, but if you're in the area I recommend it. Parking is limited, but street parking can be found.
Nathan Revell
I pride myself on being a donut expert (I’ve had them all over the world) and I can tell you this place is the real deal. Most of their donuts are the old fashioned cake kind and they are serious!! My wife’s favorite is their giant (and I mean friggin huge) donut. They have good coffee, other drinks and sweets that I haven’t tried because the donuts are too good. Seriously their old fashioned cake kind is as good as it gets and better than any of the other, more known cake donuts in the entire city.
Kathy Cunningham
This place has the best donuts. My husband's use to drive out south to get them. One day my son came home in told me that their was a new donut shop opening up. I thought not another Dunkin donuts. When I found out it was Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts I LOSS MY MIND I went there and bought 5 dozens for my whole family to enjoy. Have not bought a Dunkin donuts since. A elder man told me one day that you're not taste a real donut until you've taste Mr. B's Old Fashioned donuts. Thank you Mr. James. From Sam's club
David Underwood
Mr. Bs donuts are outstanding. Today I visited for the first time and was thoroughly impressed. I got a half-dozen to take home for a Saturday morning treat for the family, and when I got to the car I took a bite of one of the donuts. I went back inside and bought more. The staff is friendly and the prices are great. You can watch them making the donuts right in front of the store. Coffee was great too!! MR. Bs!!!
How to reach Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts
None
Website: None
Why Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts with your friends? This charming donut shop, highly rated at 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews, offers more than just delicious pastries; it provides an inviting atmosphere that makes gathering with friends and family a memorable experience. The allure starts with the nostalgic charm of old-fashioned donuts made fresh daily, evoking a sense of warmth and simplicity that few places can match. When you're looking to catch up with friends or celebrate a small occasion, the cozy environment and the irresistible aroma of sweet, freshly fried dough create an instant mood lifter. Whether you're a fan of classic glazed, rich chocolate frosted, or creative seasonal flavors, Mr. B's offers a variety that caters to all tastes, sparking conversations about favorite flavors and past donut adventures. This shared enjoyment naturally fosters camaraderie and laughter—a perfect backdrop for meaningful social connections. Plus, the reasonable prices allow everyone to indulge without worry, making it an ideal spot for groups looking to treat themselves without overspending. Ultimately, meeting at Mr. B's means delighting your senses and deepening friendships in one truly delightful setting.
What activities make Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts perfect for a group meetup? Besides enjoying a gallery of mouthwatering donuts, the shop presents a relaxed, casual environment that encourages lingering and engaging in conversation. The seating layout is designed to accommodate small to medium-sized groups comfortably, enhancing social interaction without feeling crowded or rushed. Many visitors appreciate the option to customize orders or create donut assortments to share, turning the visit into a fun tasting session. Groups often turn this into an informal donut appreciation event—sampling different flavors and comparing notes on texture and taste enhances the experience much like a wine or cheese tasting. Moreover, Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts frequently hosts themed events or specials that can add an extra layer of excitement, offering the perfect excuse for regular meetups. The staff’s friendly and accommodating service further supports group activities, ensuring everyone’s preferences and dietary needs are met. Finally, the opportunity to take photos of beautifully decorated donuts or snap group selfies against the shop’s vintage-inspired decor provides a playful, interactive element to your gathering.
Why is the ambiance at Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts especially conducive to friendship and family bonding? The shop’s interior embraces a retro aesthetic, with elements that evoke a simpler time, inviting guests to slow down and savor the moment. This old-fashioned vibe resonates well with a wide age range, from younger children excited about their first sprinkle donut to older folks reminiscing about beloved flavors from their youth. The natural light filling the space combined with tasteful, vintage décor creates a cheerful and welcoming backdrop that is visually cozy and energizing. Soft background music complements the scene without overpowering conversations, making it easy for groups to communicate comfortably. The overall setting strategically fosters inclusiveness and comfort, allowing friends and families to settle in for extended visits filled with storytelling, laughter, and shared joy. Many regulars note that the shop feels like a 'third place'—neither home nor work, but a treasured community spot where meaningful social time flourishes effortlessly.
How does Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts cater to diverse tastes and group preferences? The menu boasts a broad array of classic and inventive donut flavors, ensuring that everyone in your group can find something to love. From timeless glazed and cinnamon sugar varieties to seasonal specials featuring unique toppings and fillings, there’s an option for traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike. The shop also offers coffee, milk, and other complementary beverages to round out the experience, perfect for pairing with your pastry and fueling long catch-ups. For groups with dietary restrictions or preferences, Mr. B's often has options like vegan or lower-sugar donuts, showing a commitment to inclusivity without sacrificing flavor. You can place bulk orders or special requests ahead of time, which is ideal for meetups focused on celebrations like birthdays or reunions. This flexibility highlights the shop’s dedication to customer satisfaction and enhances its appeal as a go-to gathering spot for all kinds of group occasions.
What unique experiences or extras does Mr. B’s provide during group visits? Beyond just eating delicious donuts, groups can engage in playful and interactive moments inspired by classic donut shop culture. For example, friends can challenge each other to donut decorating contests if the shop offers such activities or bring in creative ideas for group participation based on the donut theme. The retro vibe invites visitors to appreciate not only the taste but the history and art of donut making—sometimes staff or the owner share anecdotes about their recipes or the tradition behind the shop’s “old-fashioned” approach. Some groups turn their visit into a donut-themed photo shoot, capturing the vivid colors and textures of the pastries alongside vintage signage and décor to share on social media or keep as fun mementos. For those interested in educational angles, discussing the donut creation process can also be a surprisingly engaging topic, turning the meetup into a small culinary adventure. These kinds of experiences make Mr. B's more than just a place to eat—they make it a venue for shared memories and joyful connections.
How does the location and accessibility of Mr. B's Old Fashioned Donuts add to its appeal for group meetups? Conveniently located with ample parking and easy transit options, Mr. B's is accessible to a wide range of guests, eliminating common barriers to gathering. The surrounding area often features other local businesses and parks, allowing groups to extend their meetup with additional activities like strolling, shopping, or grabbing a coffee after the donut indulgence. This accessibility means friends and families don’t feel rushed and can easily combine a visit to Mr. B's with other plans, making the outing both rewarding and efficient. The shop’s welcoming atmosphere is complemented by staff who are attentive to groups coming in together, often helping to coordinate orders or recommend popular sharing platters. Many customers praise how the location feels like a community hub, a place where spontaneous meetups happen naturally and everyone leaves happy. This accessibility combined with a comfortable, inviting space creates a perfect recipe for any group gathering looking for both quality food and a delightful social scene.