11 Ohio Donut Shops That Locals Say Make Breakfast Worth The Drive
Nothing beats the smell of fresh donuts in the morning, especially when they’re made by local shops that have perfected their craft over decades. Ohio is home to some incredible donut makers who turn simple ingredients into breakfast magic.
From 24-hour campus favorites to lakeside seasonal treats, these dozen shops have earned devoted followings among locals who gladly drive miles for their perfect glazed rings and creative flavors.
1. Buckeye Donuts – Columbus
Campus life runs on sugar and caffeine, which explains why this Ohio State institution never closes its doors. Since 1969, students and locals have flocked to High Street for round-the-clock donut fixes.
Their Buckeye-topped donuts pay perfect tribute to Ohio pride, while massive apple fritters could fuel an entire study session. The maple bars deserve their legendary status among students.
Located at 1998 N High Street, this 24-hour haven serves breakfast alongside their famous donuts, making midnight snack runs a campus tradition.
2. Bill’s Donut Shop – Centerville
Some things never go out of style, and Bill’s proves that point every single day. This Dayton-area legend has been serving fresh donuts around the clock since 1960, becoming a true neighborhood institution.
Their sour cream cake donuts have a cult following, while the pretzel donut offers a salty-sweet twist that keeps customers coming back. Seasonal specials add variety throughout the year.
Find this gem at 268 N Main Street, where the lights never dim and the fryer never stops. Their 24/7 schedule makes them a reliable friend for any craving.
3. Resch’s Bakery – Columbus
When a bakery survives 113 years, you know they’re doing something right. Resch’s has been a Columbus staple since the early 1900s, with their massive donut case drawing crowds daily.
The star attraction is their “Big Boy” glazed donut, stretching eight inches across and perfect for sharing. Their glazed twists and cream sticks showcase traditional techniques passed down through generations.
I once watched a customer’s eyes widen when they saw the Big Boy for the first time. Located at 4061 E Livingston Avenue, this bakery represents Columbus history in every bite.
4. Amy’s Donuts – Columbus
Forget boring glazed rings when you can have Fruity Pebbles explosions on your donuts. Amy’s specializes in wildly decorated creations that look almost too fun to eat.
Their Reese’s-topped varieties satisfy serious chocolate cravings, while stuffed bars take indulgence to new levels. The drive-thru operates 24 hours, making late-night sweet tooth emergencies totally manageable.
Located at 650 Georgesville Road, this colorful shop brings childhood cereal dreams to life. The inside counter keeps regular daily hours for those who prefer browsing their creative display case in person.
5. DK Diner – Grandview Heights
Family recipes create the best comfort food, and DK Diner proves this theory with every fresh batch. This Grandview Heights gem makes their donuts in-house daily, pairing perfectly with their hearty breakfast plates.
Glazed rings showcase their mastery of basics, while maple bacon bars blend sweet and savory flavors beautifully. Weekly specials keep regular customers guessing and coming back for surprises.
Find them at 1715 W 3rd Avenue, where morning-to-midday hours extend later during mid-week. Their family-owned approach ensures personal attention and consistent quality that chain shops simply cannot match.
6. Honey Dip Donuts & Diner – Columbus
Five decades at the same location speaks volumes about quality and community loyalty. Honey Dip has anchored Kenny Road since the early 1970s, combining classic diner fare with outstanding donuts.
Their cream sticks burst with smooth filling, while bowties offer a unique shape that stands out from typical rings. Seasonal pumpkin varieties arrive each fall like clockwork, creating annual anticipation.
Operating Wednesday through Sunday with morning hours, they’re located at 4480 Kenny Road. The limited schedule makes their donuts feel even more special, like catching your favorite band on tour.
7. Jack Frost Donuts – Cleveland
Scratch-made batches have defined this Cleveland institution since 1937, when most donut shops relied on mixes and shortcuts. Their commitment to traditional methods creates superior texture and flavor.
Maple bacon long johns represent perfect breakfast harmony, while custard-filled varieties showcase their pastry skills. They even offer seasonal and vegan options, proving old dogs can learn new tricks.
My first visit to their Pearl Road location left me amazed by the sheer variety available. Open daily from 6 am until 6 pm or sellout, this Old Brooklyn shop draws customers from across Greater Cleveland for good reason.
8. Holtman’s Donuts – Cincinnati Area
Three generations of donut-making have perfected the Holtman family recipes since 1960. Multiple locations across Cincinnati ensure their handmade classics reach devoted fans throughout the region.
Apple fritters arrive crispy outside and tender inside, while red velvet cake donuts bring Southern charm to Ohio. Maple bacon varieties balance sweet and salty flavors with expert precision.
Weekend specials at their Over-the-Rhine, Loveland, and West Chester locations create anticipation among regular customers. Check individual location hours since each shop maintains its own schedule, but all deliver the same family commitment to quality.
9. Stan the Donut Man – West Chester
Butler County’s Donut Trail wouldn’t be complete without this family-run favorite that draws loyal crowds daily. Early sellouts prove their popularity among locals who know quality when they taste it.
Glazed cake donuts represent perfection in simplicity, while jelly-filled varieties burst with sweet fruit flavors. Cinnamon twists offer a delightful alternative to traditional ring shapes.
Located at 7967 Cincinnati-Dayton Road, they operate mornings through midday but close on Mondays. Arriving early prevents disappointment since Stan’s devoted following often clears the cases before afternoon arrives, making timing crucial for first-time visitors.
10. Madsen Donuts – Geneva-on-the-Lake
Lakeside summers wouldn’t be the same without this seasonal legend that has operated since 1938. Hot cake donuts straight from the fryer create an experience that chain shops cannot replicate.
Plain cake donuts showcase their mastery of basics, while cinnamon and coconut varieties add simple but effective flavor variations. The seasonal schedule makes each visit feel like a special treat.
During my last Lake Erie vacation, watching them fry fresh batches became daily entertainment. Located at 5426 Lake Road East, they operate weekends during the season but sell out quickly, so calling ahead prevents disappointing trips to an empty case.
11. Donald’s Donuts – Zanesville
Southeast Ohio relies on this steady neighborhood shop that has anchored Muskingum County breakfast traditions for decades. Their consistent quality and reliable hours make them a community cornerstone.
Glazed yeast rings achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and texture, while cream sticks deliver smooth filling in every bite.
Apple fritters showcase traditional techniques that create superior results.
Located at 2622 Maple Avenue, current hours are Monday and Wednesday–Saturday 5 am–2 pm, Sunday 6 am–12 pm, and closed on Tuesdays. Their large display case ensures variety through the morning, making Donald’s a dependable choice for southeastern Ohio donut lovers seeking old-school excellence.