When it comes to donuts, North Carolina has got you covered. Home of the original Krispy Kreme along with a slew of other donut shops, you’ll find plenty of options offering fried yeast and cake donuts to get your morning started. One of the most famous donut shops in the state is Britt’s Donuts at Carolina Beach!
Known for its classic, glazed donut for over 85 years, Britt’s always eluded me since they are typically only open from early April to a bit past Labor Day in September. And given I’d usually visit Carolina Beach in its off-season, I would walk past their shuttered doors gazing wistfully at what could have been. But a recent visit to the area during the summer season meant I could finally enjoy this special fried treat!
If you’re looking for Britt’s, it’s conveniently located right in the cluster of shops at the front of the Carolina Beach boardwalk. Just look for the line and you’ll likely find the place. It’s a small, casual spot with diner type seating if you want to eat your donuts onsite with a drink. Otherwise, most people are standing and waiting for their fresh from the fryer order!
The menu is super basic, donuts as singles ($1.25), 1/2 dozen ($7) and a full dozen ($13) along with a handful of drinks. Note that Britt’s Donut Shop is cash only so your credit card and Apple Pay will not be accepted. It took about 15 minutes for my order of a dozen donuts but you can observe the action as they’re fried and glazed in the kitchen. We grab the wax bag of a dozen donuts and head on out to the Carolina Beach boardwalk!
Before diving in, I shared the bag of donuts with my friends and reach in for my own. They are still super hot and I bite in, wow! They are similar to Hole Donuts in Asheville but are super light and airy with a bit of crusty chew. The donuts feel like they aren’t much in the way of calories but for this type of deliciousness, you know it isn’t true! I eat three donuts and put the rest of the bag away for my caloric safety.
All I can say is that Britt’s Donuts delivered, even with the 5 year wait. And on the plus side, they recently announced they would be opening a second location in Charleston this year. So if you’re in the area between April and September, I can see why Britt’s Donuts is a do-nut miss, hah! Forget about all the deep-fried calories you are eating and just enjoy a sweet treat by the beach.
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