Milwaukee's best donut shops

Milwaukee features local donut scene that spans from century-old Polish bakeries to arcade-themed mini donut destinations. Milwaukee's greater metro area offers exceptional variety, from brioche-style artisan creations to old-school crullers that have been made the same way since the 1930s. Whether you're seeking Instagram-worthy specialty flavors, budget-friendly classics, or late-night sugar fixes, this guide covers every noteworthy destination across Milwaukee and its suburbs—with practical details for planning family visits.

Milwaukee: Retro arcades to late-night windows

Happy Dough Lucky Donuts + Arcade (Bay View)

This Bay View destination combines fresh-made mini donuts with a retro 1980s arcade, creating perhaps Milwaukee's most family-friendly donut experience. Owner Andrew Swofford launched the concept at festivals in 2015 before opening this permanent location.

Location: 2691 S Kinnickinnic Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53207 — (414) 488-8188

Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–1:00 PM, 4:00 PM–9:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday 8:00 AM–9:00 PM

The experience: Over 20 specialty mini donut varieties are made fresh to order while kids play vintage arcade games (Q*bert, Pac-Man, Centipede) and pinball machines (Star Wars, Terminator 2) for just 50 cents per game. "Loaded" signature flavors include Sour Patch Special, Puppy Chow Pow Wow, Caramel Apple Crunch, Blue Hog (maple syrup, blueberries, bacon), and Triple Chocolate Bomber.

Why it stands out: The combination of watching donuts being made fresh, playing retro games, Saturday morning cartoons on the TVs, and Simpsons/Peanuts/Lego decor creates an atmosphere kids and nostalgic parents equally love. They also serve flatbreads and pizza. Customer ratings consistently hit 4.6/5 with praise for exceptional customer service.

Family notes: Excellent for families with children of all ages. Staff offers treats for dogs. Mini donut portions are shareable. Delivery available via DoorDash and Uber Eats. Their mobile donut bar is available for catering weddings, birthday parties, and corporate events.

Donut Squad (East Side)

Opened on National Donut Day 2017, Donut Squad has built a loyal following for oversized, candy-topped gourmet donuts with a playful approach to flavor.

Locations:

• Milwaukee: 2264 N Prospect Ave (Clock Tower Building) — (414) 628-0833

• Waukesha: 308 W Broadway

Hours: Friday–Sunday only, 6:00 AM–1:00 PM (reopens late night some weekends for bar crowds)

Signature items: Kit Kat donut, S'mores, Fruity Pebbles, Oreo varieties, Nutella Bavarian filled with peanut butter cups, and nostalgia-driven creations. The Waukesha location features Harry Potter themed donuts for each Hogwarts house.

Prices: Traditional glazed around $1.89, specialty stuffed donuts $2.50–$2.79, dozen approximately $15.99.

Reviews: Consistently rated 4.3/5 on Yelp with 390+ reviews. Staff member Betty is repeatedly mentioned for warm hospitality. Weekend-only hours create high demand—donuts sell out.

The Drive-Thru "Chubby's" (East Side)

Milwaukee's legendary late-night donut spot operates from a street-corner kiosk at one of the East Side's busiest intersections, serving fresh mini donuts until 2–3 AM on weekends.

Location: 1801 E. North Ave (corner of North & Oakland) — (414) 287-9900

Hours: Sunday–Wednesday 7:00 AM–2:00 AM; Thursday–Saturday 7:00 AM–3:00 AM

The draw: Mini donuts are fried fresh while you wait—get them coated in powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or "the combo" (both). It's a decades-old Milwaukee tradition, especially beloved by bar-hoppers. Also serves sloppy joes, Polish sausages, and walking tacos. Colectivo coffee available.

Prices: Small bag (6) and large bag (12) around $5–6; family packs of 36 available.

Honeydip Donuts (South Side)

Serving Milwaukee since 1974, Honeydip represents the no-frills, affordable donut shop experience with multiple locations offering extended hours.

Locations:

• 805 S Layton Blvd — (414) 643-9400

• 5306 S 27th St (near Grange—open 24/7 on weekends)

• 5158 S 108th St, Hales Corners — (414) 425-7070

Hours: Many locations operate around the clock or open at 4:00 AM

Famous for: Self-proclaimed "masters of the apple fritter." Also known for crullers with crispy sugar-coated exteriors, sour cream donuts, cheese pockets, and over 35 varieties made fresh daily.

The value proposition: Incredibly affordable—donuts start at just $0.90–$1.39, with bulk specials like 15 for $9.99 or 36 for $23.99. Full menu includes burgers, sandwiches, and ice cream. Booth seating and old-school diner atmosphere. Nearly 50 years of serving Milwaukee at prices that haven't risen dramatically—exceptional for budget-conscious families.

National Bakery & Deli (South Side flagship + multiple suburbs)

Founded in 1925 by Polish immigrant Louis Wisniewski, National Bakery was recently named 2025 Bakery of the Year by the Wisconsin Bakers Association—a testament to nearly a century of scratch-made excellence.

Locations:

• Milwaukee flagship: 3200 S 16th St — (414) 672-1620

• Brookfield: 13820 W Greenfield Ave — (262) 827-4097

• Brookfield (Bluemound): 17165 Bluemound Rd

• Greendale: Additional location

Hours: Monday–Friday 6:30 AM–3:00 PM; Saturday 6:30 AM–2:00 PM; closed Sunday

What sets them apart: Unlike most bakeries using the same base dough, National Bakery makes each donut variety with different doughs, so every type tastes distinctly different. Standouts include the Cheese Pocket (a unique Milwaukee specialty), oversized Persian donuts, and long johns with real frosting rather than glaze. Their Pączki on Fat Tuesday draws massive crowds—arrive early.

Fourth-generation family ownership maintains traditional recipes. Full deli offers fresh bread, sandwiches, and the famous Hot Ham & Rolls tradition (6 free hard rolls with 1 lb Badger Ham purchase). Seasonal specialties include Stollen for Christmas/Easter and hot cross buns.

Reviews: Described as a "hidden gem" and "best bakery in Milwaukee, bar none." Customer praise emphasizes that "the Stollen is like my grandmother used to make."

North Shore communities

Donut Monster

Donut Monster has become Milwaukee's premier artisan donut shop since husband-and-wife team Jackie and Sara Woods launched it as a farmers market pop-up before opening their first permanent location in December 2019. The operation now spans three locations, each serving the same exceptional brioche-style donuts made entirely from scratch with no artificial colors, flavors, or nitrates.

Locations:

• Whitefish Bay (Original): 5169 N Elkhart Ave, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 — (414) 988-2910

• Third Ward Milwaukee: 316 N Milwaukee St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 — (262) 933-9686

• Cedarburg: W62 N634 Washington Ave, Cedarburg, WI 53012 — (262) 421-8121

Hours: Thursday & Friday 7:00 AM–3:00 PM; Saturday & Sunday 8:00 AM–3:00 PM; closed Monday–Wednesday

What makes them exceptional: The brioche dough is what customers rave about most—light, fluffy, and unlike typical donut shop offerings. Donut Monster sources butter and cheese from Pine River Dairy in Manitowoc and uses fresh local fruits. Signature flavors include the PB&J with Concord Grape Glaze, Maple Bacon, Lemon Poppy Seed, Salted Chocolate, and seasonal rotating specials like Chili Mango and "Spruce Springsteen" (spruce lemon curd). The Apple Fritter ($5.50) and filled varieties like Cherry Cheesecake and Banana Crème Brûlée are customer favorites.

Beyond donuts, their breakfast sandwiches on homemade English muffins have developed a cult following—many reviewers call them the best breakfast sandwiches in Milwaukee. Options range from Bacon Egg Cheese ($10) to the elaborate Dr. Pep with chicken sausage, chorizo, and rosemary cream cheese ($13.50).

Prices: Ring donuts run approximately $3.50, fritters around $5.50, and a Monster Dozen (baker's dozen) costs $30. Multiple reviews note prices are higher than traditional shops but quality justifies the premium.

Family notes: All locations work well for families, though seating is limited. The Whitefish Bay location has a small indoor bench and pleasant outdoor seating with a pager system for waiting. Expect weekend lines—arrive early as items frequently sell out by late morning. Vegan options are available (ask staff). Follow Instagram @donutmonster414 for weekly flavor announcements.

Ordering: Uber Eats delivery available for Third Ward; pre-orders for large quantities can be arranged via info@donutmonstermke.com. They attended Shorewood and Wauwatosa farmers markets historically. No cash accepted—card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay only.

Mochinut Bayshore (Glendale)

Wisconsin's first Mochinut opened July 2023, bringing the Japanese-American fusion concept of mochi donuts to the Milwaukee area.

Location: 5735 N Bayshore Dr, Glendale, WI 53217 (Bayshore Town Center) — (414) 210-2379

Hours: Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; Sunday 11:00 AM–6:00 PM

The concept: Mochi donuts feature distinctive flower-shaped designs and a unique chewy texture from rice flour—light crispy coating with soft, chewy insides unlike any traditional American donut. Flavors rotate weekly and include Taro (highly recommended), Ube, and various glazes. Fresh donuts are made every 15–30 minutes throughout the day.

Beyond donuts: Korean rice flour hot dogs (K-dogs), bubble milk tea including Ube tea, and soft serve ice cream create a full experience.

Prices: Approximately $3–4 per donut.

Family notes: Located within Bayshore Town Center makes it convenient for shopping trips. The colorful presentation and unusual texture appeals to adventurous kids. Health score: 98/100. Delivery available via DoorDash and Uber Eats.

North Shore Boulangerie (Shorewood & Mequon)

While not a donut shop, this authentic French bakery deserves mention for families seeking exceptional pastries in the North Shore.

Locations:

• Shorewood: 4401 N Oakland Ave — (414) 963-2153

• Mequon (Foxtown): 11120 Weston Dr

Hours: Monday–Saturday 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday 7:00 AM–3:00 PM

Owner Gene Webb trained at the French Pastry School, and pastry chef Christina Schubert trained at Le Cordon Bleu. Croissants, baguettes, macarons, and tarts rival what you'd find in Paris—French reviewers confirm the authenticity. The exclusive Café Richard coffee from Paris completes the experience.

Wauwatosa and West Allis

Cranky Al's (Wauwatosa)

Since 2006, Cranky Al's has been Wauwatosa's beloved homegrown donut-and-breakfast destination, operating from a charming historic building with high ceilings, creaky wood floors, and a vibrant raccoon mural.

Location: 6901 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53213 — (414) 258-5282

Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 6:00 AM–1:00 PM; Sunday 6:00 AM–1:00 PM; Monday closed

Why locals line up: Award-winning crullers, signature "Hoytie Toyties" and "Sprinkly Dinklies," plus the Maple Bacon Long John that multiple reviewers call "the best donut I've ever had." One of the only Milwaukee-area shops offering gluten-friendly and vegan options (Vegan Oreo, Vegan Glazed Cake). Also famous for breakfast pizza.

Prices: A dozen runs around $9—exceptional value for the quality. Online ordering via Toast helps skip the line.

Atmosphere: "'50s diner meets millennial coffee shop" with Valentine Coffee served. Counter service, some seating. Staff is consistently praised as friendly and patient. Lines move quickly.

Catering: Full services for corporate events, weddings, birthday parties, and holiday gatherings.

Grebe's Bakery (West Allis)

Operating since 1937, this fourth-generation family bakery is a Milwaukee institution that supplies donuts to 200+ locations across southeastern Wisconsin while maintaining its beloved retail store.

Location: 5132 W Lincoln Ave, West Allis, WI 53219 — (414) 543-7000

What they're famous for: The glazed cruller is iconic—a Milwaukee-style signature that's earned "Best Donuts" recognition. Over 30 varieties made daily include cheese pockets, Honeymooners (seasonal flavors like Oreo buttercream), Bismarks with specialty fillings, and apple fritters. Scratch-made buttercream and signature glazes distinguish their products.

Beyond donuts: The "Secret-Recipe Baked Badger Ham" has made Sunday hot ham and rolls a Milwaukee tradition for generations. Full deli with sliced meats, cheeses, and homemade salads.

Family notes: Classic bakery atmosphere with affordable prices perfect for families. Online ordering available. Wedding catering praised—one customer ordered 175 donuts. Seasonal and limited-time flavors rotate throughout the year.

Aggie's Bakery & Cake Shop (West Allis)

"Baking Delicious Since 1977" and now ranked Metro Milwaukee's #1 Cake Shop and #1 Dessert in West Allis.

Location: 7328 W Greenfield Ave, West Allis, WI 53214 — (414) 482-1288

Hours: Monday–Friday 7:00 AM–6:00 PM; Saturday 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; Sunday closed

The standout: Aggie's famous buttercream is described as "truly special and impossibly rich." The buttercream-filled long johns are the signature item—they split the donuts to pack in extra filling. Other favorites include Maple Bacon Long Johns with thick maple frosting and crispy bacon, custard-filled, and raspberry-filled varieties.

Prices: Cake ring donuts around $1, specialty donuts $2–$2.50, half dozen specialty $12, dozen premium $20.

Additional draws: Full coffee bar with Stone Creek Coffee and espresso drinks, including highly praised Mexican spiced mocha. Third-generation family ownership. Elaborate wedding cakes and custom cakes for all occasions. Delivery throughout Milwaukee County and parts of Waukesha.

Waukesha and Brookfield options

The Donut Squad Waukesha location (308 W Broadway) mirrors the Milwaukee original but adds Harry Potter themed donuts—expect 30–45 minute waits for special events. Open Friday–Sunday 6:00 AM–1:00 PM.

National Bakery & Deli's Brookfield locations on Greenfield Ave and Bluemound Rd offer the same century-old recipes as the Milwaukee flagship, including their award-winning Pączki and scratch-made varieties where each donut type uses different dough.

Krispy Kreme at 19165 W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield is the only location in the immediate metro for those seeking the national chain's signature hot glazed donuts.

Planning your visits: practical family guidance

Best for young children: Happy Dough Lucky's arcade games and mini donuts create an experience beyond just eating. The interactive environment keeps kids entertained, and mini-sized portions are perfect for small appetites.

Best value for feeding a crowd: Honeydip Donuts' bulk pricing (36 donuts for $23.99) can't be beaten. Grebe's also excels at large orders for events.

When you need dietary accommodations: Cranky Al's offers gluten-friendly and vegan options—rare in the Milwaukee donut scene. Donut Monster has vegan varieties available by request. Friendship Café in Fox Point is entirely kosher and nut-free.

For the best photos: Donut Monster's artistic flavors and Mochinut's flower-shaped mochi donuts photograph beautifully. Happy Dough Lucky's retro arcade backdrop adds Instagram appeal.

Arrival strategy: Nearly every quality donut shop sells out of popular items. For Donut Monster, Cranky Al's, and Donut Squad, arriving within an hour of opening ensures full selection. National Bakery's Pączki on Fat Tuesday requires very early arrival.

Late-night cravings: The Drive-Thru/Chubby's serves until 2–3 AM on weekends. Honeydip's S. 27th St location operates 24/7 on weekends.

Conclusion

Milwaukee's donut landscape rewards exploration across its neighborhoods and suburbs. Donut Monster represents the city's artisan evolution—brioche dough, local sourcing, and creative flavors that justify premium pricing. Yet century-old institutions like National Bakery (1925) and Grebe's (1937) prove that traditional scratch-made recipes endure for good reason.

For families, Happy Dough Lucky's arcade concept provides entertainment beyond the food, while Honeydip's budget-friendly classics and Cranky Al's dietary accommodations ensure options for every situation. The most valuable insight: Milwaukee's best donuts require early mornings and often limited hours—plan accordingly, and the reward is some of the finest donuts in the Midwest.