Why Locals Say This Chicago Donut Shop Is The Best In Illinois
I’ve spent years chasing the best pastries in Chicago, Illinois, but nothing prepared me for my first bite at Old Fashioned Donuts in Roseland.
This South Side institution has been turning out hand-cut rings since 1972, and the buzz around it refuses to fade. Locals swear by it, food writers obsess over it, and even celebrities detour for it.
Here’s why this unassuming shop on Michigan Avenue keeps earning its crown as Illinois’ finest donut destination, and even beyond.
A South Side Legend You Smell Before You See
Follow the sweet-fried aroma to 11248 S Michigan Ave in Roseland, and you’ll understand why this place commands such loyalty.
Lines form early each morning, the display case turns over fast, and regulars exchange knowing nods as fresh trays hit the racks.
Typical hours run Monday through Saturday, from early morning to evening. Sundays are generally closed, so plan your visit for a weekday or Saturday run.
Time Out Worldwide has spotlighted this location for its consistent quality and neighborhood appeal. Once you park and step inside, the warm air and bustling energy make it clear you’ve found something special.
The Family Story: Mr. B at the Fryer Since 1972
Owner Burritt “Mr. B” Bulloch has been hand-cutting dough and greeting customers at this very spot since opening day in 1972. His dedication to craft and community has shaped the shop’s old-school rhythm and warm hospitality.
Decades later, Mr. B still embodies the heart of Old Fashioned Donuts. His presence behind the counter reassures first-timers and delights regulars who’ve watched him work for years.
Chicago Magazine has profiled his journey, highlighting how his commitment to quality and consistency built a legacy. When the owner still shows up daily after five decades, you know the passion runs deep.
The Donut That Became Myth
Ask any South Sider about the apple fritter here and watch their eyes light up with pure joy. Chicago Magazine famously called it a near-one-pound masterpiece, craggy and cinnamon-warm, with a glossy glaze that catches the light.
Made fresh each morning, this pastry draws people from across the city. Its heft, texture, and flavor have earned it legendary status among donut enthusiasts.
I remember my first fritter: I expected a standard pastry but got a revelation. It’s the kind of treat people cross town for, and once you taste it, you understand the pilgrimage.
When To Go (And Why Early Wins)
This shop moves serious volume, cranking out hundreds of dozens every single day. Hitting the door in the morning gives you the best selection and the warmest bites straight from the fryer.
Expect a friendly wait as part of the ritual. Locals chat in line, and the anticipation builds as you watch trays emerge from the back.
CBS News featured the shop’s impressive daily output and recommended early visits for the full experience. I learned this lesson the hard way after a noon trip left me with slim pickings and serious regret.
Why Locals Call It Best in Illinois
Neighborhood devotion meets citywide acclaim at Old Fashioned Donuts. This shop shows up on best-donut lists year after year, and reader roundups consistently nominate it alongside newer, trendier spots.
That chorus of regulars and food writers becomes hard to ignore. The combination of loyal customers and critical praise creates a reputation built on substance, not hype.
Axios highlighted this shop in their Illinois food coverage, noting how it bridges generations and neighborhoods. When both your grandmother and your foodie friend recommend the same place, you pay attention.
Recent Buzz That Travels Far
Even out-of-towners and celebrities make the trek to Roseland. A recent shout-out from Jason Kelce labeled the shop an absolute gem, singling out that legendary fritter and its rich history.
People.com picked up the story, fueling another wave of weekend lines. When NFL stars post about your donuts, you know the word has spread beyond the neighborhood.
This kind of attention brings fresh faces through the door, but it also validates what locals have known for decades. The buzz feels earned, not manufactured, because the product backs up every bit of praise.
How To Visit Like A Pro
Go early, bring an appetite, and consider ordering a fritter plus a mixed dozen to share. The variety lets you sample the full range of what makes this place special.
Mapping transit or parking beforehand saves headaches. Give yourself buffer time, because once those trays are gone, they stay gone until tomorrow.
Time Out Worldwide suggests checking a current hours source before you roll, since schedules can shift. I always call ahead on my first visit to a new neighborhood spot, and it’s saved me more than one wasted trip.