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Doughnut Vault
401 N Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
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Doughnut Vault
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Ru
Review №1

Just take a look at those huge donuts!The jelly donut is delicious, not those kinds of donuts you took three bites still nothing. The jelly’s sour flavor mixed with the icing’ sweet, perfect balance!All those old fashion donuts are good but nothing special.They also gave me two little ones for free, what a sweet morning!

Ja
Review №2

Pretty good spot. We got here at 7:45am and they had everything in stock. Just wish the inside was open. The Apple fritter isn’t the best and neither are the yeasted donuts but the old fashioned ones are the best ones. Solid spot for donuts!

Ch
Review №3

Very tasty with sweet service. The cold brew was good. Will definitely come back. ⚠️ WARNING: I highly recommend ordering one doughnut per person to start. Youre going to want 2+. Dont try it! The doughnuts are too big and delicious. It will hurt.

Is
Review №4

Probably the best donuts I had in Chicago, but still Im not sure Id go out of my way to get them again.Note that the regular glazed donuts are absolutely gigantic. The old fashioned is closer to average size. Both are better than the areas competition.

Be
Review №5

A literal hole in the wall. The experience here is top-notch. The donuts are unique and delicious, I had one of everything on the menu which is seasonal by my understanding. The coffee situation is basic, but the coffee itself is fantastic.

Li
Review №6

Great! The service and their donuts are always great!! Always love their buttermilk old fashioned. Todays special was Mexican Hot Chocolate and it was tasty!

M
Review №7

Located at a rather secluded spot. They have HUGE donuts, really tasty too

Je
Review №8

We did our own donut tour and the donut vault was our second visit. We were not impressed. All it was was a big donut with chocolate and sprinkles. If youre going to eat this donut bring something to drink. It is definitely dry and the flavor of the dough was just plain. We had high expectations here and we were disappointed.

ac
Review №9

This is a super cool spot, and the donuts were tasty and a high level. Well made not greasy and no bad after taste so ... Basically nothing but delicious.

Is
Review №10

Donut crawl stop #2. Literally a hole in a wall. Amazing, massive, glazed donuts.

Yu
Review №11

Absolutely delicious donuts. One of the best donuts I’ve ever had. The yeast donut is massive enough to easily satisfy two people. The donut is so fluffy and chewy almost reminiscent of a croissant. Also had apricot jelly donut. Jelly was tart and not too sweet which was a nice balance. Simple coffee menu with only coffee. Typical donut style coffee. Literal hole in the wall donut shop.

Sa
Review №12

This place is great. Everyone who works here has a great personality and their donuts never disappoint. Their lemon poppyseed donuts and ginger stacks are me personal favorite.

Na
Review №13

The doughnuts are great! We ordered an assignment for work and we’re not disappointed by any. The standouts to me were the old fashioned doughnuts. They come with the perfect amount of icing and have a wonderful texture. The chocolate old fashioned is delightfully dense and moist.

No
Review №14

BEST cold-brew and pistacho doughnuts in Chicago!!!

Al
Review №15

Absolutely delicious donuts. One of the best donuts I’ve ever had.The donut is so fluffy and chewy almost reminiscent of a croissant.Literal hole in the wall donut shop.

Vi
Review №16

One of the best doughnuts in Chicago.This place is open from 7 am till 1 pm.They have daily specials and everyday it’s something new. Always check their website and place and order online 5 mins before reaching there so you can have it fresh.Known for their old fashioned and yeast and cream filled doughnuts.Must try if you’re Visiting Chicago and love doughnuts 🍩.

Br
Review №17

First time going here. The doughnuts were exceptional. Recommend getting here early though because when we arrived around 1030am most of the doughnuts were sold out. We got buttermilk and chocolate doughnuts and they were great. Note that the chocolate ones are HUGE and one is enough to feed two people. Make sure you have a debit card because surprise surprise they dont except cash. That is the only reason they arent getting a 5 star rating. I digress, so if your looking for a good doughnut Im the morning then come here grab some and go to the near by riverwalk and enjoy.

Ry
Review №18

Very good. they taste great out of the Box I cant wait to throw into the microwave

Jo
Review №19

Edit: Theses donuts are HUGE. We got six expecting that to be a nice large-ish breakfast for two. But it was way more food than we thought we were getting. That said, Im glad we got so many so we could try a lot of flavors and share. The jelly donut was a special Friday treat, so of course we had to get that in our order.Very yummy donuts. My favorite is the apple fritter. Its light and airy inside with moist pieces of apple baked in. And the icing is just sweet enough but not too much. This place sells out fast so we were glad to get some while we could!

en
Review №20

One of favorite specialty doughnuts in downtown Chicago. There’s only street parking and there’s always line; be ready to wait . It’s worth it

Ke
Review №21

You can order online but then need to wait for 20 minutes with everyone else to pick up your food. They should make that clear on the website. It basically defeats the purpose of ordering ahead for “pick up.”The donuts are good but there are lots of good donut places where I don’t need to wait 20 minutes.Edit: ordering online does speed up checkout so everyone should still do that in line

Fr
Review №22

Tiny little spot and we waited in line to get us some yummy pastries. Some big donuts here. Tasty stuff and the service was super friendly. He threw in some donut holes since we drove so far to visit them.

Mi
Review №23

Huge, delicious doughnuts representing a number of clever, tasty varieties. Dough is delightfully tender, and icings are creatively paired with the cake rings upon which sit and smother. Only complaint is that this is a cashless business, like so many others these days, only accepting debit or credit cards. I doubt it is due to a health safety issue, but rather a realization that serving staff cant be trusted handle currency or make accurate change. Whatever happened to businesses striving to accommodate consumers? I guess if you are as successful as the Vault, you dont feel the need to do so.

Sa
Review №24

Guy working this morning was rude af. Not friendly at all and the donuts were incredibly mediocre. 0/10 recommend.

Ed
Review №25

Amazing donuts. Really fresh tasting. Tastes like quality ingredients. Dont taste artificial. During my four-day trip to Chicago went three days. There were new Donuts each day. Highly recommend this place. Friendly people behind the counter as well. The jelly donuts are stuffed. They dont skimp on the filling.

Se
Review №26

Get there early if you want anything other than old fashioned ( nothing wrong with a good Ol fashion)

St
Review №27

So good. Delicious. Both love and hate that I know how good they are

Sh
Review №28

When some places seem to draw long lines of people who somehow dont mind waiting for long times to get a bite of staple food items, you always wonder is the long wait really worth it? Will this place live up to all that hype?Pros: Friendly service, gingerbread stack donutsCons: Donuts that taste more like the ones you get in a free breakfast at a 2/3 star hotel by the airport; super long wait times; pricey for what you get and spend.Sorry Chicago! This one just isnt worth it.

Jo
Review №29

Very good doughnuts but the guy at the window is not very friendly. Been there twice in the last 2 weeks. Wants you to use the app to order everything. Come on now, how much trouble would it be to put up a chalkboard with the days specials?

Da
Review №30

I dream of donuts, nightly. We found this place via Google while visiting Chicago on vacation. The line wasnt long at all and I maybe waited 10 minutes. I got several blueberry old fashioned, buttermilk old fashioned, and a chestnut doughnut. They were all great!

Ma
Review №31

My new favourite doughnut place, beats NYCs Donut Vault and Ottawas Suzy Q! I was there for the pink lemonade doughnut.... WOW. Had five others too, all fantastic. The chestnut is worth a try, very unique!

Ju
Review №32

One of the best jelly donuts I’ve ever had! The seating is outdoor only and the donut selection is limited, but oh so good! We got there when they opened and people were waiting outside in just a regular weekday. That’s always a good sign!

Em
Review №33

Awesome. Delicious and fun variety of doughnuts.the coffee pairs well with them.Friendly and fast service.

Ja
Review №34

Love the hole in the wall idea for this place. Just roll up to the window and get some coffee and a donut or two. Pro tip: No line on Sunday mornings.

Do
Review №35

Start of the donut tour....great fun!!

As
Review №36

Had Doughnut Vault for my doughnut wall at my wedding. Tried a few places before the wedding and these were by far the best!! Ordering and pick up was seamless and the doughnuts tasted great the day of!

Sa
Review №37

Went here on a Sunday morning shortly after opening and got lucky with a very short line (probably due to the freezing weather). Its the size of a vault so just look for a line to find it. The donuts are huge and delicious and the coffee is cheap. Definitely worth a stop if youre in the area & want to splurge a little on some great donuts!

Ma
Review №38

Definitely one of the better doughnut spots Ive tried in the city. Located in a tiny front behind Merchandise Mart on Franklin, it is an easy spot to overlook. I went shortly after opening time on a Saturday and there were already several people in line. I personally really liked the Vanilla Glazed but all of the doughnuts are worth trying. They close as soon as they sell out so be sure to go early.

Av
Review №39

The doughnuts are phenomenal, and the staff is unbelievably sweet. My new favorite place for sweets!

Ke
Review №40

A hole in the wall place with some of the best yeast doughnuts in Chicago. They sell until they sell out, with a few special donuts everyday. While everyone raves at the buttermilk old-fashioned, its the chestnut glaze yeast donut that really stands out. Pillowy soft with a nice firm aromatic exterior. Plus its gigantic! They do seem to make all their donuts at once however, so you pretty much have to get there early if you want it fresh. Opens later than a usual donut place though. While it may not the best donut out there, it is a must experience while visiting Chi-town.

ch
Review №41

Due to the space and location, get prepped for Doughnuts to go.The old fashioned are most cake-like and our favorite. Fans of the puffy and airy variety will enjoy either choice of chestnut/vanilla/chocolate. Didnt care for the Gingerbread stack, a bit too sugary and bland. Order a half dozen or more and get a few Doughnut holes thrown in... the chocolate sprinkled made this a 4th star. When theyre gone, theyre gone.

B
Review №42

This is a MUST stop in Chicago no matter what the temperature! Fresh daily made gourmet donuts that wont last long! Be sure to get there early and when you see the line... it is worth the wait! Usually moves along quickly. Be sure and have a buttermilk donut... if there is still one available 😉

Ke
Review №43

First of all, people are not lying when they say to get here early and be prepared to wait in line. Im not a fan of having to do that, but the incredibly energetic lady working the window and the amazing donuts make it well worth it! Their selection is small but very unique, changing every day. You can expect some of the best textured old fashioned donuts and largest raised donuts youve ever had. Its a must-try for all of you donut lovers when visiting Chicago!

Da
Review №44

One of the best old fashioned doughnuts! Very cute place and great service!

Ke
Review №45

Has the best doughnuts in the Midwest!

Je
Review №46

Hands down, best donut shop in Chicago. Dont sleep on the horchata old fashioned. Always good times talkin with Isaiha through the window about tattoos, travels and baseball... GO WHITE SOX!

Ra
Review №47

Amazing donuts! Went for the day’s special (chesnut glazed) as well as the old-fashioned buttermilk and was not disappointed.

Ed
Review №48

I used to think I didnt like donuts. Actually Im pretty sure I dont like donuts but the things they make here are not donuts. They make a whole incredible experience that is delicious from beginning to end and worth the wait (and several times you might show up and its not open because it closes when it sell out)

Jo
Review №49

Simply OMG! Take the doughnut tour...this place is incredible

Am
Review №50

OMG... I am definitely coming back! Its been years since Ive had THAT good of a buttermilk old fashioned

Je
Review №51

Some of the best doughnuts Ive had anywhere. The classic buttermilk is perfect. The apple fritter is light and airy, a refreshing change from often dense and stodgy. I look forward to returning and trying more of the varieties.

Tr
Review №52

Its a cute little Shop! Definitely stop by.

Fa
Review №53

Finally got a chance to make it in after years of thinking about braving it. Went during the holidays when there was no lime, got inside the door at first try. just awesome donuts!! super A+. true to the spirit, this place is truly a hole in the wall spot....buddies always brave the lines and bring the donuts for the office. ++they serve metropolitan coffee just for a $1, cant beat that for an awesome cup of joe. guy behind the counter super friendly. R wouldve loved!

Eg
Review №54

Very good brioche style doughnuts that are clearly fresh! Simple menu showcasing what they do well. Old fashioned doughnuts are also well done.

Al
Review №55

Service was average but decor, vibe, and flavors were perfect. The bourbon pecan special was a delight!

Lo
Review №56

The doughnut gives good head highly recommend the birthday cake Bc of the sprinkles adds texture

Sa
Review №57

Fresh and really tasty Doughnuts! I had the buttermilk doughnut which was really good. I didnt get the chance to try the rest of the flavors but they all looked really good.

An
Review №58

Shout out to the guy who let me pick up my doughnuts ahead of him in line. I made it to my Metra train. Thanks!!!

Jo
Review №59

Donuts aren’t anything special IMO, to each his own

Ty
Review №60

If you are a fan of waiting in line for delicious food, then this place is perfect for you. These are probably the best donuts Ive ever had. They have a donut for any taste buds! A must visit while in Chicago!

Br
Review №61

Wow! This place blew me away with how good it was! I highly reccomend if you are within the area!

Sh
Review №62

Best doughnuts by far on the doughnut tour!

Tr
Review №63

The doughnuts here are huge and tasty. Go early they close when they sell out.

Tr
Review №64

Had to wait about 15 minutes, but might wait longer now that I know how good it is.

Al
Review №65

WHY? Why did you have to make doughnuts so good that I want to eat the whole box!? Seriously though...amazing doughnuts with unique Weekly Specials and a really good cup of coffee. Thanks!

Mi
Review №66

A great little spot to have a morning donut and coffee.

Cy
Review №67

Love their doughnuts 😍😍😍 always freshly baked 🙌

Gr
Review №68

Hole-in-the-wall type place with possibly some of the best donuts youll ever have.

Sa
Review №69

Loved the Donut vault!!! Had the honey bun cake donut

Ti
Review №70

Best of the big 4 in Chicago, dont @ me

Ca
Review №71

THE BEST DONUTS IN CHICAGO!!!!!!!

sh
Review №72

I follow the reviews and i cant believe. The worst donut ever. First of all is eggy, dry, very dry, and burned. Do-rite is a lot better, even dokins is better. Go to the supermarket and you will find a better quality donut. For the price and the reviews i expect something special. The only special about it is the size.

Fr
Review №73

Doughnut Institution! The cookies and cream specialty doughnut is phenomenal!

To
Review №74

You need to come early, as they do sell out. We had about 20 minute wait in line at 9:30 am on Sunday. Really amazing donuts and worth the wait

Ra
Review №75

I split a maple donut with my friend on a donut crawl. Would rank 3rd best in the city. Trust me, I know my donuts.

Ja
Review №76

Super small place. There will be a massive line if you are late. House made quality treats!

Ir
Review №77

Love me some donuts!!! Delicious and customer service great

gr
Review №78

Not only was my donut delicious today. It was free.!!On this cold pandemic day I was fumbling to find my credit card because they currently do not take cash. The gent said “Here pass on the Good karma to someone today. It s on me. “ I started looking for a homeless person to hand over my money. . Will be stopping by more often in support. Nice people. Great donuts. Greg

Wh
Review №79

Best donuts Ive ever had. My vanilla glazed was soft and cakey. Crispy Kreme has nothing on this place.

Vi
Review №80

Their chestnut donut is amazing!

Jo
Review №81

This is a great little hole in the wall, with some of the best donuts Ive ever written in my life. Just dropping order in online and stop by for a quick pick up. The coffee was also amazing, a perfect blend to go with an amazing donut

Su
Review №82

Meh. Theyre really big, but theyre burnt on the bottom and not really anything special. Ok, but Stans are the best in Chicago and Donut Shack in Maryland are the best anywhere.

P
Review №83

Awesome staff, quick service, and best of all...DONUTS. Have tried quite a few but (personally) I’ll only go here for the OLD FASHIONED BUTTERMILK DONUT. You know how other items taste good but you have that FAV...THIS IS MY OLD FASHIONED BUTTERMILK DONUT SPOT 😊 THEY’RE DELICIOUSLY PERFECT 😍

Ke
Review №84

Well hidden gem. You might just miss it, its so low key, litterally a hole in the wall kind of place. But interesting donuts, especially the Chestnut maple doughnuts! And great coffee too!

An
Review №85

These donuts are gigantic, its like an entire meal. Chocolate glazed is my favorite but the jelly donut special changes frequently.

Iv
Review №86

If you like over-priced donuts, this place is for you.

Jo
Review №87

Amazing doughnuts, amazing experience. Arrive early they are only open until they sell out.

Al
Review №88

The donuts were absolutely mouth watering. The gentleman at the counter was vey friendly. Go early! we went there early so managed to get inside and grab the donuts. there was a humungous line up after we were done! Went a day earlier and they were sold out already.

Sp
Review №89

These donuts are so good! The dough is really good and the crisp outside from being fried is incredible. If you come to Chicago and like donuts, it is an absolute must!

Re
Review №90

Unique doughnut flavor. They make the doughnuts downstairs and are open until they sell out, usually around 12.The old fashioned are my favorite. They have an excellent fried crisp to them.

Ja
Review №91

I went right when they opened to make sure they didnt run out of any flavors. There was a short line, but it went quickly. The vanilla glazed donut was great!

Am
Review №92

Extremely nice workers; one of the three best donut shops in the City!

Sa
Review №93

Really good old fashion donuts, it’s a window in the wall, so don’t miss it.. definitely worth the drive, they run out of donuts quick so don’t go late.

Pa
Review №94

The dude with tattoos has terrible customer service.

Bo
Review №95

Its been few years since i visited Chicago but this place still has the best doughnuts🍩

As
Review №96

Donuts are delicious but the rudeness from those working there detract from the entire experience.

Ja
Review №97

My donut delicious and fantasticI like everything in this place as everything was perfect

Be
Review №98

Loved the doughnuts!

Br
Review №99

Massive doughnuts, v good

Ti
Review №100

Delicious! The regular menu and the rotating specials are all amazing!

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:401 N Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
  • Site:http://doughnutvault.com/
  • Phone:+1 312-285-2830
Categories
  • Donut shop
Working hours
  • Monday:7:30AM–1PM
  • Tuesday:7:30AM–1PM
  • Wednesday:7:30AM–1PM
  • Thursday:7:30AM–1PM
  • Friday:7:30AM–1PM
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:Closed
Service options
  • Curbside pickup:Yes
  • No-contact delivery:Yes
  • Delivery:Yes
  • In-store pickup:Yes
  • Takeout:Yes
  • Dine-in:No
Health & safety
  • Mask required:Yes
  • Staff wear masks:Yes
  • Staff get temperature checks:Yes
  • Staff required to disinfect surfaces between visits:Yes
Highlights
  • Great coffee:Yes
Popular for
  • Solo dining:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance:No
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom:No
Offerings
  • Coffee:Yes
Dining options
  • Breakfast:Yes
  • Dessert:Yes
Atmosphere
  • Casual:Yes
Crowd
  • Family-friendly:Yes
Planning
  • Quick visit:Yes
  • LGBTQ friendly:Yes
Payments
  • Debit cards:Yes
  • NFC mobile payments:Yes
  • Credit cards:Yes
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