Arizona’s donut scene is full of surprises. Behind plain storefronts and humble strip-mall locations, you’ll find some of the most delicious, handcrafted donuts in the Southwest. These shops may not look fancy from the outside, but once you taste what they’re making, you’ll understand why locals keep coming back for more.
The Local Donut (Scottsdale)
Clean lines and a minimal exterior might make you walk right past this Scottsdale gem, but that would be a huge mistake. The Local Donut focuses on small-batch dough that’s crafted with care rather than speed.
Their maple-bacon donut delivers the perfect balance of sweet and savory, while raised donuts have an almost floating texture that reviewers can’t stop talking about. The storefront keeps things simple with just a few outdoor seats, yet loyal fans return again and again for the incredible depth of flavor.
Timing matters here—arrive early in the morning to snag the freshest donuts before they sell out for the day.
Rainbow Donuts (Phoenix)
That bright pink roof and vintage sign catch your attention from the street, but step inside and you’ll find a humble setup that lets the donuts do all the talking. Rainbow Donuts has mastered the classics without any flashy gimmicks or trendy flavors…