Vancouver’s food scene is well-known for its diverse offerings, but if you’re craving something sweet, nothing beats a freshly made doughnut. While big-name bakeries may grab the spotlight, it’s the smaller, hidden gems around the city that serve up some of the best doughnuts you’ll find. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavours or creative twists, here are the best little doughnut shops in Vancouver, ranked for their uniqueness, taste, and local charm.
Nestled in the heart of Granville Island Public Market, Lee’s Donuts has been a beloved Vancouver institution since 1979. This tiny shop consistently draws long lines of both locals and visitors who come for their light, fluffy doughnuts. Known for their classic honey dip and powdered sugar varieties, Lee’s also offers seasonal flavours that keep people coming back for more. There’s something nostalgic about the simplicity of their doughnuts—lightly fried perfection with just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite while exploring Granville Island or making a special trip, Lee’s is a must-visit.
Cartems Donuts is all about quality ingredients and creative flavours, making it a standout in Vancouver’s doughnut scene. With locations downtown and in Mount Pleasant, Cartems has gained a reputation for its innovative flavours like Earl Grey, salted caramel, and their vegan-friendly options. Their use of locally sourced ingredients and commitment to crafting unique combinations set them apart from other doughnut shops. You can sit in their cozy, modern café or grab your doughnuts to go—either way, Cartems delivers some of the most interesting and flavourful doughnuts in the city.
Located inside 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters, Lucky’s Doughnuts pairs perfectly with a cup of high-quality coffee. Their doughnuts are made fresh daily, and the selection ranges from classics like old-fashioned glazed to more elaborate creations like the passionfruit-filled Bismarck. The texture and flavour of their doughnuts are always on point, and the pairing with a meticulously crafted coffee makes this spot a favourite for doughnut lovers. The laid-back atmosphere of Lucky’s makes it an ideal spot to sit down, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a great doughnut.
Tucked away in Deep Cove, Honey’s Doughnuts is a hidden gem for anyone venturing out of the city’s core. These doughnuts are big, hearty, and perfectly satisfying after a hike up to Quarry Rock or a paddle along the cove. Their honey doughnut is a crowd favourite—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and dripping with sweetness. Honey’s is a small, unassuming shop that’s been serving up its doughnuts for decades, and it’s well worth the trip to the North Shore for a taste of this local treasure.
Swiss Bakery is a little-known spot in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood that’s been serving European-inspired baked goods for years. Their famous Berliner doughnuts are light and filled with delicious fruit jams or custard. These doughnuts have a slightly more delicate texture compared to traditional North American varieties, offering a nice change of pace for doughnut lovers. Swiss Bakery is also known for its other baked goods, but the doughnuts are truly the star of the show here. It’s the perfect place to stop for a sweet treat in a cozy, neighbourhood setting.
For something a bit different, Duffin’s Donuts is a Vancouver institution that has been serving doughnuts 24 hours a day for decades. Located on East 41st Avenue, this shop offers a quirky mix of doughnuts, fried chicken, and bánh mì sandwiches. Duffin’s doughnuts have that classic, no-frills appeal—think simple glazes, custard-filled classics, and chocolate-dipped varieties. While it may not have the artisanal flair of other shops, there’s a certain charm to Duffin’s that keeps people coming back, especially for late-night cravings.
Mello is a relatively new addition to Vancouver’s doughnut scene, but it’s quickly gained a loyal following. Located in Chinatown, Mello’s doughnuts are airy and light, with a focus on soft, pillowy textures and unique flavours like matcha and milk tea. Their small but curated selection is perfect for doughnut lovers looking for something a bit different, and the minimalist café space is great for relaxing with a sweet treat. If you’re after a doughnut that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, Mello is the place to go.
For those who love their doughnuts bite-sized, Outpost Mini Donuts is a must-try. This small shop, located in Steveston, specializes in mini doughnuts that are freshly fried and tossed in a variety of coatings like cinnamon sugar and powdered sugar. Outpost Mini Donuts is all about the simple joy of a warm, freshly made doughnut, and their small size makes it easy to indulge without feeling too guilty. Plus, the charming village of Steveston offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon stroll after your sweet treat.
Vancouver’s doughnut scene is filled with hidden gems and local favourites, each offering something unique for doughnut lovers to discover. Whether you’re grabbing a classic honey dip at Lee’s Donuts, enjoying a creative Earl Grey doughnut at Cartems, or indulging in a hearty treat from Honey’s Doughnuts in Deep Cove, there’s no shortage of delicious options to explore. So, the next time you’re in Vancouver, treat yourself to one (or several) of these top doughnut shops and enjoy the sweeter side of the city.
