When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Donut Pub
Why The Donut Pub is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Donut Pub, established in 1964 in New York City, is an iconic destination renowned for its delicious and diverse donut offerings, making it an exceptional place to meet up with friends and enjoy sweet indulgences. Founded by Buzzy Geduld and his brother, this family-owned business has stayed true to its roots, offering hand-crafted donuts made the old-fashioned way in a classic ambiance reminiscent of vintage soda fountains. The donut selection is extensive and includes innovative flavors like the maple bacon croissant donut and the salted caramel croissant donut, alongside timeless favorites such as French crullers, old-fashioned crullers, honey-dipped, and black and white cookies. Notably, The Donut Pub is peanut and tree nut free, making it a safe and welcoming spot for individuals with nut allergies. Visitors can enjoy their treats while seated along a marble counter in a setting filled with nostalgic black and white tiles and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Open 24 hours, it’s a reliable spot for early risers or late-night cravings, providing not only donuts but also coffee, sandwiches, soups, and salads. Whether you're catching a casual coffee talk or stopping by for a hearty breakfast, The Donut Pub offers a blend of traditional and modern flavors that make it a treasured meeting place in New York City.
Here's what people think of The Donut Pub
As of recent, The Donut Pub holds a 4.6-star rating based on 2450 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise The Donut Pub for its exceptional and unique donuts, highlighting the quality and freshness of the offerings. Many guests have noted the standout maple bacon croissant donut as a must-try, with its fluffy, light texture and flavorful topping that surpasses even popular cronuts. The salted caramel croissant donut and French cruller also receive high marks for their distinctive textures and tastes. Positive reviews frequently comment on the spacious variety of donuts and the inviting atmosphere that combines nostalgic charm with a welcoming vibe. The staff are described as friendly and engaging, contributing to an overall positive customer experience. Patrons appreciate the 24/7 availability, making it convenient for all hours, including early mornings and late nights. The nut-free environment is another important positive aspect noted by visitors with allergies. On the other hand, negative reviews are minimal but sometimes mention that the shop's vintage look might appear dated or that the space is small and could feel crowded during peak times. A few customers expected a more modern bakery ambiance rather than a classic diner style. However, such points are often overshadowed by the quality of the donuts and friendly service. Overall, the consensus shows that The Donut Pub remains a beloved and highly rated destination for donut enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, offering a delicious and nostalgic New York City experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tahiri Harowicz
Those donuts were AWESOMEEEE—delicious, freshly baked, and with flavors that are out of this freaking world. I’m a donut lover, and this is without a doubt my favorite spot in NYC for donuts. And the best part? They’re open 24 hours… which means donut cravings can be satisfied anytime. Dangerous, but in the best possible way.
Emily Vroom
Another nut free find! Also sesame free. Large assortment of donuts from classics, to cronuts and fancy fun flavors. Donut holes, muffins and other baked goods. Saw vegan and gluten free options in a separate display. Wasn’t very busy when we arrived on a Thursday morning 10am. There is old school countertop sitting for you to enjoy your donuts, coffee or other breakfast meals. They were patient while we looked over everything and decided. For 4 donuts, 2 Poland springs, 1 bacon egg and cheese on a Kaiser there and 3 donuts, 1 muffin and 1 dozen donut holes to go it was $51!
T K
I absolutely love the donuts here..so many options it’s hard to choose. The staff is always super friendly and welcoming. This place has definitely become my go to spot for a quick treat. The only thing I wish? That the hot coffee was a bit hotter. can’t beat the vibes and flavors. Highly recommend!
Kenny Bello
One of the best donut spots I’ve been to in a long time. They offer a great variety of donuts along with coffee drinks. The staff was friendly, and the place was spotless. Definitely recommend checking it out.
Aminah Imani
4am donut run just the way I like it. Fresh donuts, delicious hot chocolate with alternate milk options and great customer service. It made me almost want to work here! The best donuts are the honey dip, the croissant, apple fritter, pumpkin spice, and the french cruller. I love that you could sit down like an old school diner feel. It was really cute. Im sure I will be back!
How to reach The Donut Pub
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Why The Donut Pub may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Donut Pub with your friends?
Gathering at The Donut Pub for a meetup with friends or family is an experience wrapped in warmth, nostalgia, and deliciousness. This iconic New York City donut shop is more than just a place to grab a treat—it’s a cozy, welcoming spot where you can bond over classic comfort food that delights all ages and tastes. With a stellar rating of 4.6 from over 2,400 reviews, it’s clear that this place excels at creating memorable, happy moments for groups. The Donut Pub’s reputation for fresh, flavorful donuts—including a broad selection that accommodates various dietary needs like nut allergies and vegan preferences—makes it a perfect venue for diverse groups to indulge together without worry. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just craving quality sweets while catching up, the bright and inviting atmosphere of the shop encourages relaxed conversation and shared smiles. Small but charming, with counter seating and a few tables, it fosters an intimate environment that’s great for laughter, conversation, and savoring some of New York City’s finest donuts side by side. This sense of gathering around a relatable, beloved treat makes The Donut Pub a natural rallying point for friends and family looking for a sweet shared experience.
What activities can you do at The Donut Pub for a group meetup?
Though The Donut Pub primarily specializes in serving donuts, the experience of visiting itself offers several activities that make it ideal for a group meetup. First and foremost, the act of choosing from their wide variety of donuts, including vegan and allergy-safe options, becomes an engaging group activity—the visual delight of colorful, freshly made donuts laid out behind the counter invites discussion and sharing. Sampling different flavors encourages a communal vibe where everyone can try a bit of everything and exchange favorites. You can also pair your sweets with coffee or other beverages on site, making it a hybrid café experience ideal for leisurely socializing over drinks and treats. The cozy seating arrangement, reminiscent of an old-fashioned diner with bar stools and small tables, facilitates casual, intimate conversations that deepen connections among friends and family. For larger meetups, patrons often take advantage of the shop’s takeout options, turning the donut selection into a collective picnic or sweet gathering in a nearby park or home. Finally, the friendly, neighborhood vibe and central location invite spontaneous strolls before or after your donut indulgence, extending quality time together beyond the shop itself.
Why is The Donut Pub perfect for group meetups?
The Donut Pub stands out as a perfect venue for group meetups because it combines convenience, quality, inclusivity, and atmosphere in a way few donut shops do. Its reputation for excellent donuts, including many vegan choices and allergy-sensitive options, means everyone in your group is likely to find something safe and delicious, removing common social barriers related to food allergies or dietary preferences. The shop’s small but efficiently cozy layout encourages casual yet connected socializing—sitting close enough to chat easily but with enough space to be comfortable. The affordable pricing ensures a guilt-free group treat without feeling like a luxury splurge, making it suitable for all kinds of gatherings, from casual catch-ups to small celebrations. Moreover, the family-owned nature of the business adds to that welcoming vibe, with friendly staff who are eager to make your experience fun and memorable, despite occasional service inconsistencies reported by some customers. The Donut Pub’s location in a lively, accessible part of New York City adds convenience and the potential to extend meetups with nearby activities, making it an all-around excellent choice for communal enjoyment.
What variety and dietary options can groups expect at The Donut Pub?
One of the major appeals of The Donut Pub for groups is the wide variety of donuts it offers to cater to many tastes and needs. Beyond the classic glazed, chocolate, and dusted varieties, they boast an extensive selection of vegan donuts, which stand out for their quality and range. This makes The Donut Pub a rare gem in the city—a place where dairy-free and vegan friends can savor delicious options that are often dry or greasy at other shops. Allergy-conscious customers, especially those avoiding nuts, also benefit from the shop’s commitment to safety, allowing families with kids or friends with specific restrictions to enjoy without stress. Seasonal flavors, like pumpkin spice during fall, add a festive touch that can keep group visits exciting and appropriate for different times of the year. The availability of other baked goods and drinks further complements their donut menu, making the shop a one-stop location for sweets and snacks that cater to diverse group preferences and dietary requirements.
How does the atmosphere at The Donut Pub enhance group meetups?
The ambience of The Donut Pub plays a key role in making it a great place for social gatherings. The shop’s décor evokes a nostalgic, classic donut shop feel with clean, bright interiors that create a cheerful mood. Its diner-style counter seating and a smattering of small tables encourage friendly, face-to-face interaction, which is essential for group cohesion and shared enjoyment. The intimate size means there’s a cozy vibe where everyone can hear and engage with each other easily, avoiding the distancing effect that large, noisy spaces sometimes create. This atmosphere, combined with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked donuts, sets a relaxed, joyful tone for meetups where conversation flows as smoothly as the coffee. The staff’s generally warm and accommodating approach adds a personal touch, making regulars and newcomers alike feel like part of a friendly neighborhood community. All these elements come together to create an environment where groups can bond over food and conversation effortlessly.
What makes The Donut Pub stand out compared to other donut shops?
The Donut Pub distinguishes itself from other donut shops in New York City through its exceptional blend of quality, variety, inclusivity, and neighborhood charm. With a 4.6 rating based on thousands of reviews, it consistently receives praise for producing donuts that many describe as “amazing” and “delicious,” freshly made with a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Unlike many competitors, The Donut Pub offers a broader range of vegan options that do not compromise on taste, a rarity in the city’s donut scene. Additionally, its allergy-friendly environment, especially for nut allergies, sets a higher standard of customer care and inclusivity. The family-owned nature of the business and their friendly, engaged customer service give it a personal touch often missing in larger chains. Although the shop is small and seating limited, its cozy diner-style setup enhances its uniqueness as a classic New York City donut destination. This combination of delicious products, thoughtful options for diverse dietary needs, and a welcoming atmosphere makes The Donut Pub a top choice for any group seeking both taste and a warm social experience.
How accessible and convenient is The Donut Pub for hosting meetups?
The Donut Pub’s accessibility and convenience contribute significantly to its appeal as a meetup spot. Located in a vibrant area of New York City, it is easily reachable via several public transportation routes, making it convenient for urban residents and visitors alike to plan gatherings without transport hassles. The shop’s hours are flexible enough to accommodate both daytime and early evening meetups, ideal for breakfasts, brunches, or afternoon snacks with friends or family. While the interior space is compact, the availability of takeout options allows larger groups to enjoy their treats comfortably elsewhere, expanding the scope of meetups beyond the shop itself. Parking might be limited given the city setting, but many patrons appreciate the walkable surroundings, which often include parks, shops, and other attractions to explore before or after their visit. This ease of access, combined with the flexibility of eat-in or take-out, ensures that groups can organize meetups at The Donut Pub with minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment.