The Depot Donuts: Free From Hype and Worth the Drive

By JoshMogerman in Food on Aug 7, 2011 8:45PM

Sure, we could be accused of being a bit too focused on donuts. This site is littered with pastry posts, and we have certainly joined in the chorus hyping the Donut Vault’s ludicrous line and Nightwood’s bacon donuts for brunch. But as the Vault’s twitter feed keeps broadcasting available O’s later and later into the day, a drive to the West Side reminds us that keeping it simple is often the best tact. Heck, The Depot American Diner’s donuts don’t even have a hole, but they still vie for Chicago’s finest.

The Austin neighborhood is not exactly considered a foodie enclave, but The Depot could hardly be considered a hidden gem. They have enjoyed regular visits from the Food Channel and tons of well-earned local attention. But buried in their desert menu, the fresh-fried balls of cakey goodness aren’t the Chicago brunch staple they should be. Arriving at the table piping hot, coated in cinnamon and powdered sugar and accompanied with a mocha chocolate sauce, no self-respecting sweet tooth should miss these perfect puffs.

The Depot American Diner, 
5840 W. Roosevelt Rd. 
773-261-8422