Best Doughnuts in London - Our St John Doughnut Addiction

“A doughnut is a sprinkled incarnate of happiness.” - Unknown Author

Indulgence is a deserved pursuit. An acknowledgement that all our hard work - whether at the gym, behind a desk, creating art or nurturing our families - has its rewards. And when you stumble upon your one little piece of private heaven, it certainly does bring on the sunshine. If you’re a Londoner with an ear to the ground, you might have heard whisperings of a famed little morsel of delight. One that hundreds of people patiently queue for every Saturday and Sunday. A golden globe of taste sensation which, if you missed it, will leave a hole in your heart. What are we on about? The epic St John doughnut.

The doughnut revolution

It might surprise you to know that doughnuts date back to ancient Greece where fried balls of dough were drizzled with honey or fish sauce. A not-so-appealing start perhaps, but evolution is a marvellous thing.

While there are many references made to similar treats throughout history, it was the Dutch settlers who brought the concept to America in the 1600s. Their version, called “oliekoecken”, was an irregularly shaped, dense fritter stuffed with fruit and nuts and cooked in pork fat. After several transitions including the birth of its hole (to facilitate an even cook) and some decadent trends (like dunking and glazing) a worldwide obsession ensued.

Big franchises like Dunkin’ Donuts and Krispy Kreme, famed for their “anything goes” approach, rustle up flavours and fillings that have millions champing at the bit. But for us, it’s the artisanal touch that matters. The thoughtful craftsmanship and careful attention to every delicious detail grab us by the heartstrings and make us clamour for more. And St John Bakery does exactly that.

Why we love St John doughnuts

If you wander past the Maltby Street Market and down to Druid Street on a weekend morning, you’ll come across a railway arch that houses the famed St John Bakery. Brimming with an astounding collection of sourdough breads, Eccles and delectable pastries, you are instantly struck by the mouth-watering aromas that assault your senses. But it’s the doughnuts that draw the crowds.

You might expect them to be ringed, sprinkled, glazed and glam, but they’re not. Instead, you’ll find a humble ball: Golden, plump, fresh, fluffy… and oozing with homemade fillings that have your head spinning with joy. From the ever-popular custard to rhubarb, apple compote, raspberry jam, salted caramel and other seasonal delights, they are the exception to every doughnut rule. And, with over 600 sales a day, the proof is certainly in the pudding. We’re addicted – it’s as simple as that!

St John Bakery

The brainchild of Trevor Gulliver and Fergus Henderson, St John is a Michelin-starred eating empire that is quietly growing without any rigorous rollout plans. Together, their mission is to pair great food with extraordinary wines and present them to their patrons with purpose and simplicity. Founded in Smithfield at 26 St John Street, their endeavours have expanded to include St John Bread and Wine and St John Neal’s Yard Bakery. So visit them… and don’t forget the doughnuts.

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