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ZipPicks Awards

Best Donuts in San Francisco

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Johnny Doughnuts 8.4
Pacific Heights
Handcrafted doughnuts made fresh daily in a cozy Pacific Heights storefront. Known for classic raised and old-fashioned styles alongside seasonal specials and a house ‘Crodough’.
Must-Try Dishes: Old-Fashioned Buttermilk, Apple Fritter, Crodough
Scores:
Value: 7.9 Service: 8.2 Consistency: 8.8 Food Quality: 9 Atmosphere: 7.6 Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Scratch-made doughnuts with rotating seasonal flavors and a signature croissant-doughnut hybrid.
Who should go: Classic doughnut fans and pastry collectors
When to visit: Mornings before noon for widest selection
What to order: Old-fashioned, apple fritter, seasonal Crodough
Insider tip: Ask which flavors just came out for still-warm doughnuts.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly metered street parking along Fillmore and nearby residential blocks; generally available in mornings but tight after 10am.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are in weekend wear or gym clothes.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly background chatter and espresso machines, still fine for conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—shop closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, but peak 9–11am may see short lines.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—most doughnuts are vegetarian-friendly, with no meat or gelatin ingredients.
Vegan options: Limited—rotating vegan doughnuts available a few days per week.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free options; cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re aiming for a low-key morning or casual coffee meetup—the cozy vibe and shareable doughnuts make for an easy, no-pressure start.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations accepted or needed. Counter seating and a few small tables are first come, first served.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—kids love watching the doughnuts being prepared, and seating is stroller-friendly during off-peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Best for classic raised and old-fashioned doughnuts made fresh daily; stands out for consistent quality and the Crodough hybrid.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for a full café breakfast or gluten-free pastries—this is a doughnut-first destination.

Hours

Monday7am - 6pm
Tuesday7am - 6pm
Wednesday7am - 6pm
Thursday7am - 6pm
Friday7am - 6pm
Saturday7am - 6pm
Sunday7am - 6pm