For many sugar-loving souls, they don’t always end up with rings on their fingers. Sometimes, they find themselves completely content with a yeast-raised, rounded confection — aka “the donut” — at hand.
Opinions on where to find the finest donuts vary widely. Some proclaim New York as the ultimate haven, while others advocate for Italy, Paris, Germany or even Japan. Regardless of geographical preferences, one thing is for sure: our cravings seek proximity; something within reach.
Just in time for the sugary celebration of World Donut Day (June 2), let us explore the delectable donut realm in and around Cebu City, hailed as the “Best of Cebu” from 2019 to 2022:
Dunkin Donuts (Best of Cebu winner, 2019)
It hits differently when people see the Dunkin’ Donuts logo even from afar. It entices people with the promise of nothing but pure goodness as they step into its doors. The ambiance wraps around patrons just like Willy Wonka’s sweet embrace, and they are greeted with what feels like an endless exploration of delightful tastes.
Dunkin’ Donuts has reached such unprecedented levels of popularity that the brand playfully turned the idea of a global shortage of Chocolate Butternut into an April Fools’ joke back in 2019. The lighthearted prank took the internet by storm, with netizens falling for the bait. Although a harmless joke, it sure broke the hearts of many donut-loving fans. This incident serves as a reminder of the immense admiration the brand enjoys among both Cebuano children and adults.
Fullbring Bakery (Best of Cebu, 2020 and 2022)
A sweet selection is even made sweeter when one chewy bite — coated with glaze or cream — melts effortlessly on your tongue. Aptly named Fullbring for a reason, the brand lives up to its name by bringing full flavors in a single bite. Its sweetness is undeniably delightful, striking a perfect balance that avoids overwhelming the senses.
From its classic chocolate to its zesty strawberry-filled offerings, the brand continues to impress as it won Best of Cebu 2020 and 2022. At this point, Fullbring is the ideal gateway for reintroducing the joy of donuts to those who may have been hesitant or previously uninterested (if you know anyone who doesn’t like donuts).
This Talisay City-based bakery rolls out perfectly rounded doughnuts whether one likes them stuffed, soft or squishy.
Farine Cakes and Pastries (Best of Cebu, 2021)
At Farine, flour takes the spotlight as the key ingredient in every donut. It takes its recipe seriously, as evident from its name, which is a French translation of “flour.”
Cebuanos are missing out on a lot if they’re self-confessed donut lovers but have not gotten the chance to taste Farine’s extremely consistent dough balls.
If they’re craving for the homemade goodness of twisted donuts or that puffy Bomboloni goodness, Farine has the best ones in town. Its generous filling of vanilla custard or chocolate ones are straight out like little puffs of heaven that’s going to make customers double their orders next time.
When it comes to donuts, Farine effortlessly masters both traditional and innovative flavors without overdoing anything, making it a reliable option for anyone craving the soft and fluffy greatness of these delightful treats. Its donuts don’t overplay sweetness that much, making it the ideal companion for a comforting latte, whether it’s a morning pick-up or a cozy evening indulgence.
Best of Cebu celebration
In an upcoming celebration of Cebu’s outstanding brands, products and services, Dunkin’ Donuts, Fullbring Bakery and Farine Cakes and Pastries will be proudly featured. These establishments will be part of a grand recognition party organized by SunStar Best of Cebu, where their acclaimed donuts will take center stage, showcasing the excellence and innovation that define Cebu’s culinary sweetness.
These donut havens in Cebu have proven that donuts are mainstays in the world of pastries, and rightfully so. They deserve a spot at the top of one’s list when it comes to satisfying one’s sweet tooth.