Gigi's Doughnuts

- 1 E 118th St, New York, NY 10035

In a city celebrated for its diverse and dynamic food scene, finding a truly unique and high-quality sweet treat can be an adventure. Gigi's Doughnuts, nestled in the vibrant community of East Harlem, stands out as a hidden gem for both donut lovers and those seeking delicious plant-based options. This small, Asian and women-owned business has quickly gained a reputation for its commitment to creating exceptional doughnuts that are 100% vegan. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick, satisfying dessert, whether you're a local resident or just passing through the neighborhood. Their philosophy is simple: use all-natural, cruelty-free ingredients to craft doughnuts that are not only delicious but also surprisingly light and moist.

Gigi's Doughnuts has perfected the art of the vegan donut, challenging the notion that plant-based treats can't be as good as their traditional counterparts. The reviews speak for themselves, with customers praising the moist fillings and the fact that the donuts are never "overly sweet." This balanced approach to flavor is a refreshing change in a market often dominated by sugar-heavy confections. From classic chocolate to more creative seasonal flavors, each donut is a testament to the bakery’s dedication to quality and taste. Beyond the doughnuts, the shop is also highly regarded for its coffee, making it a complete destination for a sweet treat and a great beverage. The combination of high-quality coffee and exceptional baked goods makes Gigi's a standout in the local dessert scene.

What’s especially appealing about Gigi's is its intimate and welcoming atmosphere. While it is a small, takeout-only establishment with limited space inside, the environment is always clean and well-kept. This focus on efficiency and hygiene ensures that every visit is a pleasant one. The small size also contributes to a cozy, local feel, where you can quickly grab your order and be on your way. It’s a place that feels personal and handcrafted, much like the doughnuts themselves. For a solo diner looking for a quick and delicious indulgence, Gigi’s offers a perfect solution. You can pop in, get your favorite donut and coffee, and enjoy it on the go or find a nearby bench to savor the moment.

The menu, though focused, offers a delightful range of flavors. Beyond the popular house assortment box, you can find individual doughnuts with unique and tantalizing flavor profiles. Past customer favorites have included the rich Peanut Butter Chocolate frosting donut and a refreshingly balanced Orange with Lemon Zest flavor. The Brownie Batter donut, in particular, has been described as "super rich" and a perfect way to satisfy a sweet tooth with just a bite or two. The menu is also known to feature seasonal offerings, like the Mojito doughnut, adding an element of surprise for repeat customers. And don't forget the doughnut holes, which are a fan-favorite and a perfect way to try a variety of flavors in a smaller portion.

The business identifies as both Asian-owned and women-owned, which adds to its unique character and community-centric feel. Supporting Gigi's Doughnuts means supporting a small, local business that is passionate about its craft and its mission. Their use of cruelty-free ingredients and organic oils for frying further highlights a commitment to ethical and high-quality practices. This transparency and dedication resonate with a growing number of consumers who value not only great taste but also the story and values behind the businesses they support. It's a place where you can feel good about what you're eating and where you're spending your money.

In the end, Gigi’s Doughnuts is more than just a place to get a snack; it's a destination for a thoughtful and delicious dessert experience. It's a testament to the power of a small business to make a big impact with a focused, high-quality product. The friendly service, combined with the outstanding taste of their vegan doughnuts and excellent coffee, makes every visit a memorable one. For anyone in New York City looking for a sweet treat that is both a flavorful indulgence and an ethical choice, Gigi's Doughnuts is a must-visit.

Location and Accessibility

Gigi's Doughnuts is located at 1 E 118th St, New York, NY 10035, USA. This location places it in the East Harlem neighborhood, easily accessible for residents and visitors. The area offers both free and paid street parking, providing convenient options for those arriving by car. Given its central location, it's also a straightforward stop for those using public transportation or simply walking through the vibrant streets of New York.

Services Offered

• In-store Pickup: Order online or by phone and pick up your items directly from the shop.
• Takeout: Walk in, make your selection from the fresh assortment, and take it to go.

Features / Highlights

• 100% Vegan: All doughnuts and baked goods are completely plant-based.
• Great Coffee: The shop is highly praised for its quality coffee selections, including hot drip coffee, cold brew, and chai.
• Not Overly Sweet: A key feature noted by customers is the balanced sweetness of the doughnuts.
• Small Business: Identified as a small, women-owned, and Asian-owned business.
• Freshly Made: Doughnuts are known for their moist, fresh dough and high-quality fillings.

Contact Information

Address: 1 E 118th St, New York, NY 10035, USA

Phone: (646) 707-3594

What is worth choosing

Gigi's Doughnuts is worth choosing for its unique and delicious vegan offerings. The fact that the entire menu is 100% plant-based makes it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions or anyone interested in trying a cruelty-free product. The most compelling reason to visit is the quality of the doughnuts themselves. As noted in customer reviews, the dough is light and moist, and the flavors are thoughtfully balanced, avoiding the excessive sweetness often found in other dessert shops. A box of the "House Assortment" is a great way to sample a variety of their best flavors and is an excellent value at $25.00 for six doughnuts. The Strawberry Doughnut and the Brownie Batter Doughnut are particularly noteworthy for their light and rich flavors, respectively.

Furthermore, the great coffee is a significant draw. Pairing a fresh, hot drip coffee or an iced chai with a delicious vegan donut makes for a perfect treat. The addition of fan-favorite doughnut holes to the menu provides another reason to visit, offering a quick and satisfying bite. For anyone looking to support a small, local business that delivers on its promise of high-quality, delicious, and ethical products, Gigi's Doughnuts is an absolute must-try. It’s a genuine taste of New York's innovative and compassionate food scene.

Gigi's Doughnuts

1 E 118th St, New York, NY 10035, USA