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Doughnut Vault
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Doughnut Vault
8.4
Opened in 2011 by Brendan Sodikoff’s Hogsalt group, Doughnut Vault is a tiny River North walk-up turning out oversized classic yeast and buttermilk old-fashioned donuts until they sell out. Lines have mellowed from the early days, but it remains a go-to stop on donut tours and morning coffee walks for old-fashioned-style rings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Vanilla Glazed Yeast Donut, Buttermilk Old Fashioned, Seasonal Jelly Doughnut
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A tiny bank-vault space selling old-world-style donuts in limited daily batches until they’re gone.
Who should go: Classic donut purists who prioritize texture over toppings.
When to visit: Early morning to avoid sell-outs and keep wait times short.
What to order: Vanilla glazed yeast donut, buttermilk old fashioned, seasonal jelly.
Insider tip: Check the daily specials online and plan an early weekday visit—lines move faster and you’ll see the full board before items sell out.
Doughnut Vault
8.5
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Sweet Treats Escapes
Quick Bites Champions
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Opened in 2011 in a tiny former bank vault off Franklin, Doughnut Vault sells a limited run of hand-cranked, old-fashioned doughnuts until they sell out. Locals treat it as a morning ritual for buttermilk old-fashioneds and classic glazed rings that deliver outsized satisfaction for a few dollars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buttermilk Old Fashioned Doughnut, Vanilla Glazed Doughnut, Chocolate Glazed Doughnut
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A tiny vault-like counter turning out small-batch, cult-favorite doughnuts.
Who should go: Morning sweet-tooth types and doughnut completists.
When to visit: Right at opening to beat sell-outs and long lines.
What to order: Buttermilk old fashioned, vanilla glazed, daily special.
Insider tip: Plan a weekday visit and grab a box to eat on the riverfront nearby.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in River North mornings; closest option is nearby paid garages or metered street spots if you arrive early.
Dress code: Casual — this is a grab-and-go counter with no seating.
Noise level: Low — brief ordering line outside; no indoor seating or extended conversation space.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — the shop sells out and closes well before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Light to moderate line near opening; may sell out before midday on busy days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — most doughnuts are vegetarian, though they contain dairy and eggs.
Vegan options: No — doughnuts are not vegan and there are typically no dairy-free/egg-free options.
Gluten-free options: No — all doughnuts contain wheat and there is no gluten-free preparation.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual morning walk-and-talk date — order a couple of doughnuts and stroll nearby, but it’s not suited for a sit-down date since there’s no seating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no tables or reservations — expect a short line at the counter and plan to take your doughnuts to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — quick service and classic flavors work well for kids, though the tiny space and sidewalk line can be tight for strollers; better to grab a box and eat nearby.
Best For
Better for: Classic, hand-cranked old-fashioned and glazed doughnuts, early-morning ritual stops, and strong value for the quality.
Skip if: You want indoor seating, coffee-shop hangout time, late-day dessert hours, or vegan/gluten-free options.