There’s nothing I love to do more than eat. Pasta, ice-cream, cheese, you name it, and I’ll eat it. However, I consider myself to be somewhat of a donut connoisseur. I often find myself wondering about where to find the best doughnuts in Los Angeles. While I admit that I haven’t tried every donut in the city, as much as I would like to, I’ve narrowed down the best ones to Blue Star Donuts and Sidecar Doughnuts.

Blue Star Donuts: Venice 

Located on Abbot Kinney Blvd. in Venice, Blue Star is wedged between a delicious falafel bar and leather goods store— the Portland-born donut shop is the perfect place for a nosh. One of my personal favorite donuts on the menu is the Maple Bacon. The light sprinkle of bacon paired with maple is the ideal mixture of sweet and salty. I also enjoy the Cinnamon Sugar flavor that has the perfect citrus tang.

Blue Star prides itself on embracing traditional flavors while also adding new and exciting twists. Some of their other signature doughnuts include the Blueberry Bourbon Basil, Meyer Lemon & Key Lime Curd and Old Fashioned Buttermilk.

Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee: Santa Monica 

The next contender is located on Wilshire Blvd. in Santa Monica. Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee caters to any audience with a variety of unique flavors. Sidecar was established in 2012 by Sumter and Chi-lin Pendergast and executive chef, Brooke Deprez.

Sidecar has two locations in California — Santa Monica and Costa Mesa. During the week, the doughnut shop is open from 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, it is open until 9:00 p.m. According to their website, the team strives to create “a beautiful, new type of gathering place for [the] beloved community.”

I am a chocolate lover, so naturally, my favorite flavor is the Chocolate Budino or Malasada with Huckleberry Jam. Some of their monthly flavors include New Year’s Cake, Lemon Thyme and Salty Caramel.

Also, as someone who is occasionally gluten-free, I appreciate their five gluten-free options. I highly enjoy their Buttermilk Drops— bite-sized pieces of heaven. 

Not only does Sidecar serve delicious treats, but they also donate a portion of their proceeds to different charities and non-profit organizations. This month’s “Side Care” is “A Walk on Water,” which provides water therapy to special needs children through surfing.

Now, I’m sure you can see my predicament— Blue Star or Sidecar? Both doughnut shops are incredibly delicious and bring innovation to food and a fun and unique way. Either choice will certainly curb your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.