Albany’s Donut Gems: Where to Find the Tastiest Treats!
If there’s one food that instantly brings people together and can make anyone’s day a little better, it’s donuts. And while pizza is often hailed as the ultimate comfort food, donuts are a close contender for that title.
It’s hard to find someone who can resist the temptation of a good donut. Whether you’re grabbing one on your way to work, enjoying one with your morning coffee, or picking up a dozen to share with friends, donuts always manage to brighten the mood.
This past week, while I was out with our radio station team, Alexis, our promotions director, mentioned a spot on Lark Street in Albany called Bitchin Donuts.
She told me they had the best donuts in the entire Capital Region. I had never been there, even though it’s less than two miles from my house. Curious to see if it lived up to the hype, I decided to stop by and see for myself over the weekend.
Located at 193 Lark Street, Bitchin Donuts is open Wednesday through Sunday and specializes in making vegan donuts.
Yes, you read that right—vegan donuts! Now, I’m not a vegan but trust me when I say you wouldn’t even be able to tell the difference. If you didn’t know these were vegan, you’d never guess it.
As soon as I walked in, I was impressed. Not only were the donuts visually stunning, but the atmosphere of the shop was fun and welcoming.
What’s really cool about Bitchin Donuts is that they switch up their menu every week, so there’s always something new to try. This keeps things fresh and exciting because you never know what delicious flavors they’ll be offering.
Of course, I had to bring my kids along for the taste test. We picked up a selection of donuts to share, and not one of them was a disappointment.
Every single one was packed with flavor and had the perfect donut texture—crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.
Here’s what we got:
- Chocolate Sprinkle: A classic that never goes out of style. The kids loved this one, and it was devoured within seconds.
- Strawberry Frosted: This is, in my opinion, the greatest donut on the planet. The strawberry frosting was sweet but not too overpowering, and it paired perfectly with the light, airy donut.
- Apple Cider Glazed: This one screamed fall, with the perfect balance of tart apple cider and sugary glaze. It felt like biting into autumn.
- Brown Sugar Pear: This is my personal favorite. The brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like flavor, and the pear gives it a unique, slightly fruity twist.
- Maple Frosted: This was another crowd-pleaser. The maple flavor was rich and comforting, perfect for a chilly Albany morning.
- Butterscotch: A sweet, nostalgic flavor that reminded me of childhood treats.
Every single one of these donuts was a hit, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the brown sugar pear.
The apple cider glazed came in a close second. The balance of flavors in both of these was just incredible.
And if you’re wondering about dietary restrictions, Bitchin Donuts has you covered.
In addition to their vegan options, they also offer gluten-free donuts for those with allergies. It’s great to see a place that caters to different dietary needs without compromising on taste.
So, if you’re in the Capital Region or just passing through Albany, do yourself a favor and stop by Bitchin Donuts. Whether you’re a vegan or not, these donuts are hands-down some of the best you’ll ever try.
With their ever-changing menu, every visit promises to be a new adventure in donut heaven.
Here are a few tips for your visit:
- Timing is everything: Since they’re only open from Wednesday to Sunday, make sure to plan your visit accordingly.
- Arrive early: These donuts are popular, and for good reason. If you want to have your pick of the best flavors, get there early before they sell out.
- Try something new: With the menu changing weekly, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try a flavor you wouldn’t normally go for. You might find a new favorite.
Bitchin Donuts on Lark Street is a must-visit for anyone in the Albany area. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these donuts are worth the trip.
With their inventive flavors, inclusive menu, and unbeatable combination of quality and taste, it’s no wonder they’ve earned the title of best donuts in the Capital Region.