Does Donut Friar accept credit cards?

No, Donut Friar is a cash-only establishment. They do have an ATM available on-site for your convenience.

What kind of donuts does Donut Friar offer?

Donut Friar offers a wide selection, including cake donuts, crullers, eclairs, cinnamon rolls, and unique items like glazed croissants and coconut donuts.

When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

Many visitors recommend going a little before 7 AM, as the village is less crowded, and you may find free street parking more easily.

What is the general customer sentiment about Donut Friar?

Donut Friar enjoys a high 4.6-star rating from over 3,000 reviews, with many customers praising the fresh, delicious donuts and friendly staff. Some recent reviews indicate that freshness can vary at different times of the day.

Are there seating options available at Donut Friar?

The provided data only mentions takeout, so it is unclear if there are dedicated seating options. The focus is on the quality of the donuts and the service.

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GatlinburgTennessee

Restaurants

4.6(3,189)

Donut Friar

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Gatlinburg, TN

About Donut Friar

Donut Friar is a highly-rated donut shop in Gatlinburg, TN, proudly holding a 4.6-star rating from 3189 reviews. Visitors consistently praise the 'fresh, tasty' donuts and the 'gift from heaven' quality of their offerings. Expect a delightful selection, from cake donuts and crullers to unique glazed croissants, all crafted to deliver an 'absolute satisfying treat.' This Gatlinburg establishment is known for its inviting atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for both early risers and those seeking a sweet escape. Whether you're craving a coconut donut or a blueberry cruller, Donut Friar provides a memorable experience that guests often describe as worth visiting 'over and over.'

Description generated from Google data and customer reviews

Takeout

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What Customers Say

Blanca Roman• 3 months ago

"I stopped by after having a huge breakfast at another place. Honestly, I wish I would have just gone here and had myself a donut and coffee. Loved the location, history of the shop and the donuts are a gift from heaven. Fresh, tasty, an absolute satisfying treat. I bought the coconut which is a cakey donut topped with a bit of a frosting with coconut flakes. The blueberry cruller with a lovely glaze. The unique find which was amazing was the glazed croissant. I left wanting to try all the flavors. Worth going back over and over. Very important, this is a cash only store. There is an ATM in shop, but better to go with cash in hand just in case the ATM not working."

Allie M.• 2 months ago

"CASH ONLY with ATM onsite. Staff was prompt and friendly. Wonderful selection of donuts, from cake to dough, crullers to eclair, cinnamon rolls. They have a nice selection. Honestly, the best donut I have had in years! I went a little before 7. I had no problem finding free street parking on River Street (besides my GPS freaking out once I arrived to town). I didn't realize one can park on the main drag at that time of day, or else my trip would have been much quicker without a 5+ minutes walk each way."

Emily me• in the last week

"So the atmosphere was great, really works for being in the village. I visited the friar twice during my vacy in Gatlinburg at 630am and at 8pm NOT once where the donuts FRESH. For $2 a donut! Also at 630am The village is a ghost town, if you want to skip the lines. Edited 01/13/2026 Sorry donut frier, it was not a typo!!! But I get it. It's a tourist town make that money"

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Local Guide

Known For

Fresh donuts

Cash only

Wide selection

Gatlinburg staple

Satisfying treats

Best Time to Visit

For the shortest lines and easier parking, visit Donut Friar early in the morning, ideally before 7 AM.

Local Tips

•Plan to bring cash as Donut Friar is a cash-only establishment. An ATM is available on-site, but having cash ready can save time.
•Consider visiting early in the morning, especially before 7 AM, to potentially find free street parking on River Street and avoid longer lines.
•Be aware that while friendly staff ensure a good experience, some visitors have noted that donut freshness can vary, particularly outside of peak times.