From Grilled Cheese Donuts to Banana Cream Pie Malasadas, Here’s Where to Get Your Deep-Fried Fix

From over-the-top gourmet creations to culturally inspired flavors and massive share-worthy treats, San Diego’s donut scene is anything but basic. Whether you’re craving a classic maple bacon bar, a flaky layered masterpiece or a donut inspired by Mexican traditions, these San Diego donut shops are serving up something special. Here’s where to find the most unique and delicious donuts in America’s Finest City.

 

Donut Bar & Bakery

Must Order: Grilled Cheese Donut

What happens when a former professional motorcycle racer turns his need for speed into a passion for pastry? You get Donut Bar & Bakery in dowtown—an innovative, over-the-top donut shop that’s become a viral sensation. From yeasted donuts filled with housemade citrus curd to cake donuts coated in brown butter glaze and flaky sea salt, every bite is packed with flavor. Their new space features an augmented reality experience, and the menu goes beyond donuts with Fruity Pebble-flavored milk, Danishes and artisan bread. But if you’re looking for the ultimate indulgence, the Grilled Cheese Donut—a crispy, gooey sweet-and-savory masterpiece—is a must-try.

Location: Downtown San Diego

 

Barrio Donas

Must Order: Horchata Dona + Horchata Cafe de Olla Cold Brew

At Barrio Donas, donuts aren’t just desserts—they’re a tribute to the flavors and traditions of Mexican culture. Founded by a pastry chef who grew up balancing American and Mexican flavors, this San Diego donut shop takes childhood favorites and transforms them into crave-worthy confections. Their signature Horchata Dona is a sweet and cinnamony nod to the classic rice-based drink, while the Mazapan Donut (available with or without chocolate drizzle) pays homage to the beloved peanut candy. Pair your treat with a Cafe de Olla Cold Brew, and you’ve got the perfect balance of bold, sweet and nostalgic flavors.

Locations: Clairemont, Old Town and National City

 

Peterson’s Donut Corner

Must Order: Peterson Pillows

A San Diego institution since 1981, Peterson’s Donut Corner keeps things simple—and absolutely delicious. This old-school donut shop is known for its massive, pillow-soft pastries, including their signature Peterson Pillows, which are so light and fluffy they practically melt in your mouth. With over 50 varieties of donuts, from classic glazed to decadent cream-filled creations, there’s no shortage of options. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, try their legendary 8-pound pink frosted donut (yes, really). Whether you’re a local or making the trek to Escondido, Peterson’s is the kind of place where every bite is worth the drive.

Location: Escondido

 

Parlor Doughnuts

Must Order: Turtle Cheesecake Layered Doughnut

Parlor Doughnuts in Pacific Beach isn’t just about donuts—it’s about reimagining them. Inspired by a cross-country search for the perfect pastry, this Indiana-born shop has made its mark with its Famous Layered Doughnuts. Unlike traditional cake or yeast donuts, these treats are light, flaky and almost croissant-like, offering a one-of-a-kind texture. With over 20 flavors, including Sandy Beach, Strawberry Shortcake and Turtle Cheesecake, there’s something for every palate. They also cater to a range of dietary needs with vegan, gluten-free and keto-friendly options—plus, there’s even a Doggie Doughnut for your pup!

Location: Pacific Beach

 

The Goods

Must Order: Nutella Buttercream Cruffin 

For those who believe donuts should be made with the finest ingredients and a touch of artistry, The Goods is your spot. This Carlsbad donut shop specializes in handcrafted, small-batch donuts made from locally sourced ingredients. Whether you opt for the rich Chocolate Ganache, the smoky-sweet Vermont Maple Bacon or their legendary Nutella Buttercream Cruffin, every bite is pure indulgence. They also offer an impressive selection of gluten-free and vegan donuts, so no one has to miss out on the magic.

Location: Carlsbad

 

Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee

Must Order: Banana Cream Pie Malasada (available on Mondays!)

Few things in life are better than a fresh-out-of-the-fryer donut, and at Sidecar Doughnuts, that’s exactly what you get. Known for their small-batch, handcrafted approach, this SoCal favorite fries in limited quantities throughout the day, ensuring every donut is warm, pillowy and packed with flavor. This San Diego donut shop’s menu rotates with the seasons, but staples like the Saigon Cinnamon Crumb and Vanilla Bean Glazed always deliver. Stop by on a Monday for their Banana Cream Pie Malasada, a fried and filled delight that’s worth the weekly wait.

Location: Del Mar

 

Broad Street Dough Co

Must Order: Funky Monkey + Fruity Pebbles 

If you like your donuts with a little flair, Broad Street Dough Co. is the place to pop in. This female-founded San Diego donut shop prides itself on made-to-order creations that are anything but ordinary. Toppings range from simple sea salt and caramel to extravagant combos like M&Ms, graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate drizzle. They also offer a “vlugan” menu—Broad Street’s take on vegan and gluten-free donuts—so everyone can enjoy their decadent treats. Whether you go classic or over-the-top, one thing’s for sure: these donuts are made fresh, and they taste like it.

Location: Encinitas

 

Devil’s Dozen

Must Order: Guava Cream Cheese 

Hidden inside Kettner Exchange, Devil’s Dozen is where classic technique meets modern creativity. Their rotating menu keeps things exciting, with seasonal flavors like Brambleberry and Strawberry-Rhubarb alongside staples like Vanilla Bean and Cinnamon Sugar. But it’s their Guava Cream Cheese Donut that steals the show—a tropical, tangy-sweet masterpiece that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re a donut purist or an adventurous eater, Devil’s Dozen serves up some of the best and most unique pastries in San Diego.

Location: Little Italy