Go to Astro Doughnuts!

Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken (But Really, Just Doughnuts)

Astro Doughnuts and Fried Chicken creates huge flavors in a very small space. I got a behind-the-scenes look at the doughnut shop with a cult following, and the dedicated small group of hard-working employees deserve a doughnut of honor, or at least a very big hug. The doughnuts are made by hand, most are even stuffed or brûléed to order, and they’re just fucking delicious. Doughnuts are by far my favorite sweet, and although my body revolted, I shoveled at least half a dozen in my mouth without getting even mildly sick of them.

What’s Hot

Astro features new flavors every month and/or season, and when I tasted in May, Spring flavors were in full effect. Some standard flavors include vanilla glazed, maple bacon, PB&J, and creme brûlée. I should just go ahead and say that my two favorites were the classic vanilla glazed and the PB&J – with a tie for second were the maple bacon and seasonal almond brittle crunch. But they’re all just so good. Let’s discuss.

The doughnut dough is mixed in the early morning hours and rests for at least 30 minutes. Then the doughnuts are all cut by hand, depending on the flavor and the shape. They take a trip to the proofer next to rise and fluff up! Then it’s time for a dip in hot oil where they fry on each side for 30-40 seconds. Doughnut sticks, aka giant chopsticks, are used to flip them and they go back to the kitchen to be glazed, stuffed, rolled, sprinkled and glammed up.

The doughnuts at Astro are not made in huge batches, and they’re never frozen, which is why every single doughnut is fresh and delicious. The texture of these doughnuts is everything you hope for – the glazes are thin and create a melt-in-your mouth satisfaction on the first bite. The dough is yeasty and airy – with that perfect chew and pillow-like texture that you always wish for at those large chain doughnut shops.

I brought a dozen doughnuts back to the office and had everyone try them and rank their favorites. The conclusions were amazing – everyone had a different favorite, which means Astro literally has something for everyone. From the classic vanilla and PB&J, to the seasonal strawberry rhubarb and lemon curd – they are completely addicting and expertly crafted.