Gourmet donuts: These circular disks of fried dough are all the buzz in the foodie world. With creative flavors that prove funky-yet-delightful (think maple bacon donut), gourmet donut shops impress taste buds while boosting Instagram-feeds. DB3 Donuts, located in Evanston, does just that.
While Evanston is known for its food scene, it lacked in the donut department until restaurant Ten-Mile House owners opened DB3 Donuts in May 2016. Although the shop nests toward Ryan field – an area I only ventured during football season – I decided to see if DB3 Donuts was as delicious and aesthetic as its Instagram.
The Vibe
Immediately upon entering the space, a warm, sugary smell greeted me. Its sister business, Ten Mile House, can be seen directly through a glass door that separates the two eateries.
As if the mouthwatering smells weren’t enough, the shop appeared modern in its décor, and the large storefront windows created a bright and picturesque atmosphere (perfect lighting for any foodie taking pictures for his/her Instagram).
One of the most unique qualities about DB3 Donuts is its limited hours. DB3 Donuts is only open Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. According to employee Alex Josephs, it’s one of the only places in the North Evanston area that remains open on Sundays.
The Menu
DB3 Donuts offers an overwhelming variety of flavors. According to owner Joe Krouse, the store originally aimed to produce about eight types of donuts, but the pastry chefs developed over 20 flavors.
The variety of flavors proved impressive, and the prices were extremely friendly for college students. A basic flavor (think vanilla glazed) is $1.50, while a fancier donut (think Fruity Pebbles) is $2.75. I sampled six flavors: Maple Cinnamon, Chocolate Ganache, Vanilla Glazed, Strawberries and Cream, Fruity Pebbles and “The Dude” Goo (a twist on a maple bacon donut).
As foodie with a regular appetite for donuts, I was immediately impressed with the taste, quality and creativity. My personal favorite was the maple bacon donut, “The Dude” Goo.
If you’re someone who sticks with the basics (Vanilla Glazed or Chocolate Ganache, in this case), DB3 Donuts makes even the simplest flavors taste out-of-this-world. Safe to say, I enjoyed every doughy-bite.
#SpoonTip: Try the coffee. According to Krouse, DB3 Donuts partnered up with Sparrow Coffee Roastery to produce a custom-made blend. This blend is designed to complement the flavors of donuts the shop offers.
Final Thoughts
If I’m being honest, I’m pretty upset at myself for not venturing to DB3 Donuts sooner. Located on 1704 Central Street , this shop has some of the best donuts I’ve tasted in my 19 years of existence.
The extremely welcoming atmosphere and mouthwatering flavors make DB3 Donuts the perfect weekend treat for any college student with a sweet tooth.
No worries if you have yet to try these donuts: Come out to Deering Meadow for Spoon Fest on Friday, May 19, because DB3 Donuts is one of the confirmed vendors.