City Cast Houston logo

Houston's Best Doughnut Shops

Posted on August 16, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025

City Cast Houston Staff

Houston has some tasty doughnut spots, but it might be hard to figure out which one you should try. To help you out, I’ve rounded up a list of stand-outs. Let’s take a look.

The Best Classic Doughnuts

Houston without Shipley Do-Nuts is honestly a little less Houston. The first doughnut shop opened in 1936 on Crockett Street, and it’s remained a staple in the city ever since. You’ll see why we can’t get enough of this place, the minute you try one of their classic glazed doughnuts. If you’re a first time visitor, try a glazed doughnut and then a fun iced doughnut like their sugar white or cinnamon sugar. My favorite Shipley’s is the one on Scott Street in Third Ward. Growing up, I went there almost every Sunday after church for a warm glazed doughnut fresh out of the oven.

The Best Bougie Doughnuts

I never had River Oaks Donuts until one of my former coworkers at Houston Chronicle brought them in on Fridays. They have so many different flavors it’ll make your head spin. If you love doughnut holes, then pick one of the variety of flavors: red velvet, nutella filled, chocolate glazed, cappuccino cream filled, and the options continue. Don’t leave without trying one of their delicious kolaches (potato, egg, and cheese is my fave.) You can also make your own custom doughnut. Told ya it was bougie!

The Best Suburban Doughnuts

I’ve never been to Westco Donuts, but it’s a favorite of City Cast Houston host Raheel Ramzanali. If you’re out in the burbs, you’ll want to try this place because they have locations in Richmond, Sugar Land, Humble, and more. Raheel says his favorites are the blueberry cake iced doughnut, red velvet cake doughnut, and doughnut holes.

The Best Old-School Doughnuts

Christy’s has been a staple in Montrose for years.It comes highly recommended by Hey Houston reader, Beth. She recommends trying their sour cream donuts. If you can’t pick just one doughnut flavor and want to try a variety, then get their assorted half dozen. During the week they open up as early as 4:30 a.m., so you can get a delicious doughnut in your stomach before the sun comes up.

So, did I miss your favorite doughnut place? Let me know.

see more:food

Share article

Hey Houston

Thank you Houston, we’ve loved the conversation we’ve been having with you for the past three years. City Cast Houston and Hey Houston have suspended operations. Our last newsletter and podcast episode was Oct. 24, 2025.