If you’re already growing weary of the PSL, you can up your Starbucks Halloween game with two Nightmare Before Christmas frappucinos. You just have to know how to order them because these delightful drinks are not on the menu.
Instagram users have been sharing their unique Nightmare Before Christmas inspired concoctions and they are the perfect drinks to get you into the Halloween mood. The Jack frappuccino is 100 percent befitting of the Pumpkin King! To order this spiced mixture ask for a Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino with a shot of Chai Syrup and a shot of espresso. Ask for a mocha drizzle in the cup and have it topped with whipped cream and java chips.
The sweet, dreamy counterpart is of course the Sally frappuccino. To order this strawberry-infused treat, ask for a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino with Matcha Powder. Add a caramel syrup drizzle in the cup and top it with whipped cream, strawberry puree and strawberry inclusions (slices of freeze-dried strawberries).
Both of these drinks are not available on the menu so you’ll want to follow these directions specifically or your barista may not know what you’re asking for.
When the It remake hit theaters in 2017, a strange phenomenon known as the It Frappuccino began haunting Starbucks locations everywhere––and now it’s back.
With the release of the sequel, It Chapter Two comes the return of the It Frappuccino. While this spooky concoction is not on the official Starbucks menu it’s not exactly a secret that fans love it. Instagram feeds have been exploding with the news that the spooky drink is back.
Despite several locations embracing the scary clown-inspired recipe, not all Starbucks baristas may be familiar with the It Frappuccino. Instead, order up a vanilla bean Frappuccino topped with strawberry pureé.
It’s time for some spooky Starbucks fun, courtesy of Disneyland! The magical theme park is celebrating Halloween with two new Sbucks’ menu items, and you won’t want to miss either one.
Forget about the Unicorn or Tie Dye Frappuccino. Disney has a Maleficent version that’s purple and green whipped cream-topped goodness. If you’re not into the sweet, sweet taste of this Starbucks soon-to-be fave, park-goers can cool down with the chai iced tea and lemonade layered Dr. Facilier Elixir.
Maleficent and frapp fans can sip on the vanilla bean créme-based drink and if you’re wondering where the purplish-blue color comes from, it’s the vanilla bean that’s blended with blueberry juice and diced dragronfruit. The gooey green topping is a tuft of matcha whipped cream!
The drinks are available for a limited time at Disneyland’s Market House on Main Street U.S.A. and Fiddler, Fifer and Practical Cafe on Buena Vista Street in California Adventure Starbucks locations.
There are three things that are quintessentially New York: pizza, bagels and cheesecake. There’s even an entire style of cheesecake named after New York. So naturally New York City has its fair share of places to get the most delicious slice of cheesecake you could ever imagine. We’ve rounded up the best cheesecake NYC has to offer, from classic New York style to jiggly Japanese, to light as a feather Italian style. (It was tough, but we did it just for you.)
You can’t say “New York Cheesecake” without mentioning a storied slice from Junior’s. This New York institution started from a family recipe. Three generations later, they’re still serving up the iconic, smooth dessert at four different locations, with three in New York, plus numerous other retailers and online orders.
A downtown staple since 1976, Eileen’s Special Cheesecake has an impressive selection of cakes, pies, cookies, and of course, fluffy cheesecakes. (26 flavors of cheesecake to be exact). You can walk into the shop, get it delivered locally in NYC, or order online.
17 Cleveland Pl. New York, NY 10012 212-966-5585 Eileen’s Special Cheesecake website: eileenscheesecake.com Eileen’s Special Cheesecake hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sat. – Sun., 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Cost at Eileen’s Special Cheesecake: $4.95 for a slice, $18 for 6” cake, $38 for 10” cake
This bakery’s graham cracker crust is what sets their fluffy cheesecake apart from the rest. The cake to crust ratio knocks this one out of the park. Don’t miss out on their pumpkin cheesecake that’s only available in the fall.
1652 2nd Ave. New York, NY 10028 212-452-0476 Two Little Red Hens website: twolittleredhens.com Two Little Red Hens hours: Tues.-Fri., 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sat., 8 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sun., 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Cost at Two Little Red Hens: $29 for 6” cake, $59 for 10” cake
With a name like La Cheesecake, you’d expect they’re experts, and boy, are they. Known for their light and fluffy cheesecakes, this Queens establishment offers cheesecakes and much more at wholesale prices since 1985. But bring enough cash to make your purchase - it’s all they accept.
126-06 14th Ave. College Point, NY 718-359-3718 La Cheesecake Bake Shop website: La Cheesecake Bake Shop hours: Thurs., noon – 6 p.m., Fri., noon – 8 p.m., Sat., 10:30 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sun., 10:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Cost at La Cheesecake Bake Shop: $15.95 for 7” cake, $25.95 for 11” cake
Few bakeries can boast a history like Ferrara’s, which opened in 1892 and is still family owned and operated. Take your pick from any one of their exquisite Italian classic desserts – but don’t miss out on their cheesecakes. Choose either their creamy ricotta cheesecake or “the original” New York style cheesecake. Or get both! (We won’t judge.) They also ship nationwide.
195 Grand St. New York, NY 212-226-6150 Ferrara Bakery and Café website: ferraranyc.com Ferrara Bakery and Café hours: 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. Cost at Ferrara Bakery and Café: $26 for 6” cake, $48 for 10” cake
Their award-winning cheesecake is downright “heavenly”. Backed by revered chef Tom Coliccio, this upscale bakery offers their version of the NY classic using high-quality ingredients like pure Madagascar vanilla bean paste. Not in NY? No worries, they’ll ship it.
28 Greenwich Ave. New York, NY 10011 212-498-9810 Mah-Ze-Dahr website: mahzedahrbakery.com Mah-Ze-Dahr hours: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m., Fri., 7 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sat., 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sun., 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Cost at Mah-Ze-Dahr: $55
What’s better than a delicious slice of New York cheesecake? Eating that deliciousness below an imported Neapolitan stained glass ceiling in a café that has been around since 1894. Can’t make it to NY? That’s ok, you can order it online.
342 E. 11th St. New York, NY 10003 212-674-7070 Veniero’s Pasticceria and Caffe website: venierospastry.com Veniero’s Pasticceria and Caffe hours: 8 a.m. – midnight, Fri.-Sat., 8 a.m. – 1 a.m. Cost at Veniero’s Pasticceria and Caffe: $18.50 for 6” cake, $37.50 for 10 “ cake
Known for their amazing scratch-made pies, don’t miss out on their equally amazing New York cheesecake. All desserts are available via NYC delivery or nationwide next day shipping. Or you can just drop into their W 43rd St. location and eat it on the spot.
424 W 43rd St. New York, NY 10036 877-872-7437 Little Pie Company website: littlepiecompany.com Little Pie Company hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Cost at Little Pie Company: $65 for 10” cake
Peacefood’s cheesecakes are a true delight but what makes them extra-special: they’re vegan. That’s right, they’re egg and dairy free. Choose from their strawberry or peanut butter vegan cheesecakes.
460 Amsterdam Ave. New York, NY 212-362-2266 Peacefood Café website: peacefoodcafe.com Peacefood Café hours: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Cost at Peacefood Café: $6.50 - $7
Another venerable New York institution is P.J. Clarke’s. Known for is “Cadillac burger,” so named by Nat King Cole, and its raw bar, the restaurant, practically unchanged since it opened its doors in 1884, has also been serving up phenomenal light, decadent, and fluffy cheesecake. It’s the perfect ending to a great meal.
When you think of cheesecake, you think of smooth, fluffy, rich… jiggly cheesecake. At least you do at Keki’s Modern Cakes. Known for their authentic bouncy cheesecakes, you’ll love this uniquely delicious take on dessert. Plus, they ship nationally.
79 Mott St. New York, NY 646-863-2094 Keki Modern Cakes website: kekinyc.com Keki Modern Cakes hours: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Cost at Keki Modern Cakes: $13.75 - $40
Light, airy, velvety, and totally unlike any cheesecake you’ve ever seen is the Fromage Blanc Island Cheesecake at Chikalicious. The presentation is everything. It’s served on a “bed” of ice and heavy cream is poured all over it. This fluffy cheesecake was even featured on the Food Network show “Best Thing I Ever Ate”. Definitely one of the best cheesecakes in NYC.
203 E. 10th St. New York, NY 10003 212-995-9511 Chikalicious Dessert Bar website: chikalicious.com Chikalicious Dessert Bar hours: Thurs. – Sun., 3 p.m. – 10:45 p.m. Cost at Chikalicious Dessert Bar: $18 prix fixe
There’s nothing like starting the day with a little sugar rush, right? In honor of National Donut Day, we’ve rounded up a list of the best donut shops in every state (plus D.C.). From off-the-wall artisan flavors to down-home classic styles, there’s something for everyone. Keep reading to get the scoop.
1. Alabama: The Heavenly Donut Company Opened by a husband-wife duo in 2013, The Heavenly Donut Company has been serving up delicious bites at their brick-and-mortar store and two food trucks ever since. Try a classic maple glazed, a blueberry cake donut, or one of their rotating specials like a Nutella glazed donut.
2. Alaska: The Moose Is Loose This hidden gem is well worth a visit if you ever find yourself in small-town Alaska. In addition to killer apple fritters and donuts, they’ve also got a sweet collection of kitschy Alaskan goods for your browsing pleasure (think moose pajamas and kids’ books).
3. Arizona: The Original Rainbow Donuts Cherry fritters, anyone? This family-owned spot churns them out daily, along with classics like long johns, Boston creams and bear claws. If you’re feeling adventurous (or need a serious sugar fix), try the M&M-topped donut.
4. Arkansas: Mark’s Do-Nut Shop No frills needed: this sweet mom-and-pop shop in North Little Rock serves up deliciously fluffy donuts that locals rave about. The menu is small, but anything you get will be a home run.
5. California: Donut Bar This is not your typical donut shop! Donut Bar is famous for their artisan donuts with a menu that changes daily. The flavors include crème Brulee, Nutella, Twix, red velvet and peaches and cream, just to name a few.
6. Colorado: The Donut House It’ll only take one bite to fall in love with the handmade donuts at this Colorado hot spot. Try an old-fashioned blueberry donut or a peanut butter brownie (a raised donut topped with peanut butter and brownie chunks).
3124 S. Parker Rd. Aurora, CO
5 additional locations in Denver, Parker, Castle Rock and East Aurora Online: thedonuthouse.com
7. Connecticut: Dixie Donuts Locals rave about this Norwich gem, and we think you’ll be an instant fan, too. Chow down on a Boston cream, or try their specialty, inspired by Samoa Girl Scout cookies: a chocolate glazed donut topped with toasted coconut and caramel.
8. Delaware: Fractured Prune At Fractured Prune, you can customize your own donut. Choose from 19 glazes (everything from strawberry to mocha) and 13 toppings (crumbled bacon, chocolate chips, sprinkles…) to make the perfect sweet treat.
9. Florida: Leon’s Donuts Whether you’re into maple bacon or classic cake donuts, you’re sure to find something to love at Leon’s. Light and fluffy donuts with friendly service—what more could you ask for?
10. Georgia: Sublime Doughnuts You’ll be wowed by all the options at Sublime Doughnuts. Just to name a few, there’s the A-town (a Boston cream in the shape of an A), a white chocolate peach fritter and a Butterfinger variety—and that’s only the beginning. For a picture-perfect birthday treat, you can order a custom message spelled out in doughnuts (sign us up!).
Georgia Tech 535 10th St. NW Atlanta, GA
North Druid Hills 2566 Briarcliff Rd. NE Atlanta, GA
11. Hawaii: Leonard’s Bakery Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Leonard’s Bakery is well worth a visit. Their specialty is the malasada, a Portuguese doughnut without a hole, coated in sugar and sometimes filled with custard, chocolate or coconut.
12. Idaho: Guru Donuts Made with locally sourced ingredients, the donuts at this Boise spot are as tasty as they are inventive. The menu changes monthly, but highlights include the root beer float, the raspberry lemonade (it’s vegan!) and the Nutella chocolate chip.
928 W. Main St., Ste. 100 Boise, ID Online: gurudonuts.com
10. Georgia: Sublime Doughnuts You’ll be wowed by all the options at Sublime Doughnuts. Just to name a few, there’s the A-town (a Boston cream in the shape of an A), a white chocolate peach fritter and a Butterfinger variety—and that’s only the beginning. For a picture-perfect birthday treat, you can order a custom message spelled out in doughnuts (sign us up!).
Georgia Tech 535 10th St. NW Atlanta, GA
North Druid Hills 2566 Briarcliff Rd. NE Atlanta, GA
11. Hawaii: Leonard’s Bakery Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Leonard’s Bakery is well worth a visit. Their specialty is the malasada, a Portuguese doughnut without a hole, coated in sugar and sometimes filled with custard, chocolate or coconut.
12. Idaho: Guru Donuts Made with locally sourced ingredients, the donuts at this Boise spot are as tasty as they are inventive. The menu changes monthly, but highlights include the root beer float, the raspberry lemonade (it’s vegan!) and the Nutella chocolate chip.
928 W. Main St., Ste. 100 Boise, ID Online: gurudonuts.com
Pixaby
13. Illinois: Doughnut Vault Offering flavors from lemon poppy seed to root beer, Doughnut Vault has something for everyone. The tiny Franklin location is a grab-and-go spot for fritters and glazed donuts, while the Canal restaurant offers lots of seating and a selection of old-fashioned donuts. And don’t forget their van—give them a follow on Twitter to find out where they pop up.
14. Indiana: Long’s Bakery Since 1955, Long’s Bakery has been churning out drool-worthy doughnuts for super affordable prices. You can’t go wrong here, but locals love the chocolate glazed and the blueberry cake. Grab a dozen, and your day will definitely be off to a great start.
15. Iowa: Ambrosia Donuts Ambrosia Donuts is sure to be an instant hit with your crew, with their awesome selection of sweet treats. If you pick a Boston cream or long john, you can request the filling of your choice—yum!
16. Kansas: Varsity Donuts Varsity Donuts started serving up fluffy donuts in Aggieville in 2011, and they’ve been a local favorite ever since. As you chow down on your donuts (try the blueberry opal or maple bacon), the littles can try out the ping pong table or play board games.
17. Kentucky: North Lime Coffee & Donuts Made daily from scratch, you can’t go wrong with any of the selections at North Lime Coffee & Donuts. Each location has a different Donut of the Day so you can try inventive flavors like chocolate chip pancake, blueberry lemonade and oreo cheesecake.
18. Louisiana: Cafe du Monde Established in 1862, Cafe du Monde has been serving up beignets (French-style donuts served piping hot and covered in powdered sugar) to locals and tourists alike ever since. Pair your beignets with a cup of their dark-roast coffee, spiced with chicory (chocolate milk and orange juice is available for the younger set).
800 Decatur St. New Orleans, LA
8 additional locations in the New Orleans metropolitan area Online: cafedumonde.com
19. Maine: The Holy Donut At The Holy Donut, their secret ingredient is something you might not expect: fresh Maine potatoes. The mashed potatoes give the donuts a moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and once you’ve tried flavors like triple berry glaze, dark chocolate sea salt and fresh lemon, you’ll be an instant convert to the church of Holy Donut.
20. Maryland: Krumpe’s Do-nuts Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to this cozy spot in western Maryland. Lines snake out the door to snag some of their trademark treats, like the peanut butter iced twists, chocolate cream filled and cinnamon cake donuts, all of which are worth the wait.
21. Massachusetts: Union Square Donuts At Union Square Donuts, everything is made from scratch daily so you can be sure you’re getting the freshest and best quality. Try the maple bacon made with Vermont maple syrup and thick cut bacon, or go for an egg and cheese sandwich that uses donut dough instead of bread.
22. Michigan: New Palace Bakery This Detroit spot offers pies, bread and cakes, but their signature item is the Polish pączki, a filled doughnut traditionally served on Fat Tuesday. At New Palace, you can get pączki all year long (phew!) with fillings ranging from raspberry to custard to caramel cream.
23. Minnesota: Moon Donuts & Cafe Locals rave about this Minnesota gem with an incredible selection of donuts, from apricot filled to maple bacon and plain glazed. After just one bite you’ll understand why—and then go back for more.
24. Mississippi: The Tatonut Shop Located in historic Ocean Springs, the donuts at this sweet spot are made from potato flour, which helps them stay light and fluffy. Try the applesauce donut or the blueberry cake donut—delish!
1114 Government St. Ocean Springs, MS Online: tatonut.com
25. Missouri: The Donut Stop Founded in 1953, The Donut Stop has been a south St. Louis favorite ever since. In addition to the classics like glazed donuts and long johns, they’ve got unique offerings like cinnamon globs (aka the cinnamon roll’s less refined cousin).
26. Montana: Granny’s Gourmet Donuts Dollar donuts, anyone? At this amazing shop, you’ll find an amazing selection of donuts that won’t break the bank. Try a melt-in-your-mouth Boston cream or a filled donut topped with fresh strawberries.
27. Nebraska: The Donut Stop In addition to serving up delicious eats, The Donut Stop is also a fun hangout spot—they’ve got board games, and customers are encouraged to stick around and play. You’ll love the low prices and delicious donuts, all served up with a smile.
28. Nevada: Pink Box Doughnuts At Pink Box Doughnuts, you’ll find classic flavors like apple fritters and old-fashioned alongside inventive creations like the Fat Elvis (a chocolate-topped donut filled with banana and peanut butter) and the Unicorn (a pink velvet cake donut with lots of sprinkles). A perfect break from the Strip!
29. New Hampshire: Brothers Donuts Get your donut fix at this top New Hampshire spot, which serves up huge donuts of all kinds, from buttercrunch to honey dip to blueberry fritters. Be sure to get there early, as they often sell out!
30. New Jersey: Uncle Dood’s Donuts At Uncle Dood’s Donuts, you’ll know you’re getting the best quality—the donuts are freshly made all day long, and iced and topped to order. Try the Vermont Swine (maple bacon), the Vanilla-O (vanilla icing and Oreo crumble) or the PBJ (filled with grape jelly and topped with peanut butter icing).
31. New Mexico: Whoo’s Donuts This Santa Fe favorite is serving up seriously innovative donuts. There’s a chocolate toffee donut spiced with red chile and a blue corn blueberry lavender donut, plus more conventional flavors like lemon curd and berry jam filled varieties.
32. New York: Doughnut Plant A New York staple, Doughnut Plant had its humble start in the basement of a Lower East Side tenement building in 1994. Now it’s home to tons of delicious creations like Doughseeds, doughnut holes that have a tasty filling inside. Try the vanilla bean doughnut filled with blackberry jam and you’ll become a forever fan.
Lower East Side 379 Grand St. New York, NY
Chelsea Hotel 220 W. 23rd St. New York, NY
Brooklyn 245 Flatbush Ave. Brooklyn, NY
Queens Falchi Building, 31-00 47th Avenue Long Island City, Queens
33. North Carolina: Duck Donuts Hailing from North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Duck Donuts has become a cult favorite. The donuts are customizable and made to order—you get to choose your own combination of icing, toppings and drizzle, so the possibilities are endless. With buckets (!) of coffee available for adults, this place is a little slice of heaven.
1190 Duck Rd. Duck, NC
Additional locations in Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia Online: duckdonuts.com
34. North Dakota: Sandy’s Donuts With more than 80 types of donuts on offer, it’s safe to say there’s something for everyone at Sandy’s Donuts. Go for a cherry Bismarck, a s’mores long john or a lemon poppyseed old-fashioned.
35. Ohio: Bill's Donut Shop A Centerville tradition since 1960, Bill’s Donut Shop is a must-visit spot with lots of local flavor. You can’t go wrong with a butter twist, or a sour cream, or a blueberry cake donut. Might as well get one of each!
36. Oklahoma: Polar Donuts After one bite, you’ll be hooked on the offerings at Polar Donuts. Some of the donuts have decidedly racy names (you’ll find out what we mean!), but we’re willing to distract the kiddos long enough to get our hands on the deliciousness.
1111 N. Meridian Ave., Ste. B Oklahoma City, OK Online: polardonuts.org
37. Oregon: Blue Star Donuts Boasting a brioche-style dough and freshly made glazes and fillings in a variety of interesting flavors, this shop is the stuff donut dreams are made of. The Portland-born gem is rapidly expanding, with new locations popping up in Southern California. Pay a visit to try a tasty seasonal donut (think matcha green tea and Mexican hot chocolate), and keep an eye out for the vegan options, too.
0672 #2 SW Gaines St. Portland, OR
Additional Portland-area locations in Downtown, North Portland, Southeast Portland, Northwest Portland and Beaverton Online: bluestardonuts.com
38. Pennsylvania: Yum Yum Bake Shops Yum Yum puts chain donut shops to shame, with delicious varieties like Chocolate Thunder (chocolate filling and chocolate icing) and White Lightning (whipped cream filling). Their raised donuts are super light and airy so your whole crew will gobble them up in no time.
39. Rhode Island: Allie’s Donuts This Rhode Island gem is totally worth the trip. The family-owned spot has been around since 1968, and for good reason, as the locals will tell you. Try anything with their whipped maple glaze, or you can never go wrong with a delicious sprinkle doughnut.
40. South Carolina: Glazed Gourmet Doughnuts At Glazed, everything is made in-house, from the dough to the fillings to the glaze, and they don’t use artificial flavorings or food coloring. The result is a rotating selection of drool-worthy flavors like raspberry buttercream, far east peach and sweet corn & blueberry.
41. South Dakota: Flyboy Donuts A visit to Flyboy Donuts is sure to be the highlight of your morning. Try a maple bacon long john or a Samoa donut—delish! You can also order letter-shaped donuts for birthdays or other special occasions.
5005 S. Western Ave. Ste. 190 Sioux Falls, SD Online: flyboydonuts.com
42. Tennessee: Ralph’s Donut Shop Amazing donuts, affordable prices and friendly faces—there’s not much more we can ask for in a donut shop. Locals love the butter twist, the red velvet and the enormous apple fritter. But be careful: it’s hard to stop at just one!
43. Texas: Hugs & Donuts This Houston hot spot offers a solid mix of classic donuts and unique ideas. You’ll find cinnamon sugar cake donuts alongside fruity pebble crunch and green tea coconut. Plus, they offer a rotating selection of vegan cake donuts Friday through Sunday.
44. Utah: Roger's Bakery A hidden gem tucked inside an unassuming supermarket, Roger’s Bakery is totally worth a visit. Try a maple bar or an apple fritter, and you’ll be an instant fan.
45. Vermont: Mrs. Murphy’s Donuts Mrs. Murphy’s Donuts is about to become your favorite weekend haunt. This homey spot serves up delicious homemade donuts (we recommend the Boston cream and the honeydew cake donut) alongside breakfast sandwiches and coffee.
46. Virginia:Sugar Shack Donuts & Coffee At Sugar Shack, they’re all about using the freshest ingredients, making small batches of donuts throughout the day. See what all the fuss is about and try one of their rotating flavors, like sea salt caramel, red velvet cake and fresh strawberry.
47. Washington: Top Pot Doughnuts Top Pot does doughnuts the old-fashioned way, making them the perfect choice for breakfast purists. With everything from Bavarian creme to seasonal blueberry to feather boa (cake doughnuts topped with flavored icing and coconut flakes), you won’t be short on options. Psst—you can even order online ahead of time for pickup at their Western cafe.
Downtown Seattle 2124 5th Ave. Seattle, Wa
Additional locations throughout western Washington and in Texas Online: toppotdoughnuts.com
48. Washington D.C.: District Doughnut When you visit District Doughnut, you know you’re going to get a high-quality product. Mastermind chef Christine Schaefer is a Le Cordon Bleu graduate who dreams up flavors like bananas foster creme brulee, Nutella cream and cherry blossom. Since the menu changes every season, repeat visits are a must!
49. West Virginia: JR’s Donut Castle Freshly made every day, the donuts at this cozy shop are always delicious. In addition to classic glazed donuts and apple fritters, you can try out their pepperoni rolls (a kid favorite!), bread, muffins and brownies.
50. Wisconsin: Holey Moley Coffee + Doughnuts As Milwaukee’s only craft doughnut shop, Holey Moley is a must-visit the next time you’re in the city. Chow down on a blood orange cake doughnut, a PBCB (peanut butter chocolate bacon) or a seasonal fruit fritter. If your family has dietary restrictions, there are also gluten-free and vegan options, so everyone wins.
51. Wyoming: Cowboy Donuts Inspired by weekly childhood visits to his local donut shop, Jason Hammond co-founded Cowboy Donuts in 2010. Today you can pick up a drool-worthy batch of donuts that your family will love, along with kolaches (a butter bread that’s filled with premium meats and cheeses).
1573 Dewar Dr. Rock Springs, WY
Additional location in Spanish Fork, UT Online: cowboydonuts.com
Santa Maria is a Central California-coastal city, boasting of vineyards, breathtaking coastal views, Hollywood history, agriculture and it’s famous Santa Maria-style barbecue. Situated along the historic El Camino Real, between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara, this hidden gem offers loads of family-friendly activities and local eateries that make it the perfect destination for your next SoCal road trip. Read on for our picks, to make your central coast family trip a breeze!
Explore
Dig deep into the native Chumash past and Learn about the local National Natural landmark-The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, filled with Hollywood history, at the Dunes Center, in historic Guadalupe. The Center offers animal specimens, interactive educational activities and short films about the local area. Enjoy researching and comparing sand samples from all over the world at the Great Sand Challenge wall, where you’ll learn how to tell sands age and what region it’s from based on color.
Add to the collection by taking an information card, collecting a sand sample from your next travels and delivering it to the Center. Get up close to the fascinating, unearthed artifacts from the “Lost City of Cecil B. DeMille”, who built the largest set in movie history in the nearby dunes, for the 1923 silent epic, The Ten Commandments. Every hollywood buffs dream! Check out all the films that have been shot in the area and find out why its referred to as Hollywood’s second home. Open Wednesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., other days by appointment. $7/adults, $6/seniors, kids 12 and under are free.
Get a closer look at the dunes by driving all the way down West Main Street to the entrance of the 592-acre Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve. The miles of photo-worthy sand dunes and views of the shore are truly spectacular and familiar from films like The Ten Commandments (1923), G.I Jane, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest and At World’s End. The park has beach access, although swimming here is highly discouraged due to strong rip currents. There are restrooms, hiking and picnic areas and plenty of free parking. Tip: be sure to bring a sweater as it gets pretty windy at times. Keep an eye out for a friendly ranger, ready to answer all of your questions and share the efforts taken to conserve the snowy plover and California least tern nesting grounds, the preserves diverse ecosystem and fauna and flora that thrive in this habitat. Hours: 7 a.m.–sunset. No dogs allowed at any time.
Take the fun indoors and let your mini mad-scientists run loose at the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum. This hands-on, science-based, education space is the hub for all things creative exploration and play. The interactive exhibits, daily educational programs and Discovery Makerspace will keep everyone occupied for hours. The Makerspace, where you can enjoy stations like robotics, woodwork and circuitry is included with museum admission.
Your little music lovers will love The Walking Piano where they can learn to read simple sheet music and play familiar tunes in no time. The Vandenberg Launch Experience will give the whole family an opportunity to experience a space launch using actual United Launch Alliance Control Center computer consoles and all will have a blast with pretend play at the various real-life replica exhibits.
If all that discovering makes you tired, head down to Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard & Winery for a relaxing, countryside setting and an assortment of handcrafted wines. The kiddos can play games like cornhole, giant Jenga, Apples to Apples and chess, while you sit back, take in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy a glass of their smooth dessert Syrah. Take a stroll through their beautiful 78-acre, family-friendly estate and explore the wine caves—the first built in Santa Barbara County. Tasting is $15 for six pours with last pour at 4:45 p.m. and cave tours are $40 per person, include a small food pairing, tasting, guided tour and barrel tasting. Take in the peaceful surroundings and let the knowledgeable staff fill you in on the vineyards history and their “distinctively different age-worthy wines.”
Eat
Moxie Cafe is a local favorite serving wholesome, health-conscious foods, that range from pastas to sandwiches. The staff is welcoming and the aviation decor, honoring the cities WWII aviation contribution, is inviting. There’s a variety of yummy breakfast to dinner choices for the 12-and-under crowd, several paired with locally-sourced, Santa Maria strawberries, some of the sweetest you’ll ever taste. Try the popular Chicken Milano pasta, in house-made Milano sauce, with all-natural chicken and warm, fresh ciabatta on the side.
There’s plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options as well as an extensive beer and wine list. Complete your meal with their crowd pleasing Snowball Brownie—your choice of favorite gelato on top of a freshly baked, warm chocolate brownie. You may want to get your own. Dine Thursday–Saturday and enjoy family-friendly, live music.
For wood fired pizzas and fresh ingredients you can taste, visit Pizzeria Bello Forno, in Old Town Orcutt. With creation’s like Stephanie’s Carne Asada and Tart Cherries and Sausage, it’s easy to see why they were voted best pizza in Northern Santa Barbara County. Their hearty house-made angus beef meatballs and flavorful roasted pepper-tomato cream soup were a hit with adult and kiddos alike. The friendly staff and charming location make this a foodie must.
Enjoy Santa Maria-style barbecue and history at the Far Western Tavern. Established in 1958 by the Minetti family, this landmark restaurant is established in native ingredients and methods made known by the local 19th century rancheros. Using Santa Maria Valley local ingredients and traditional family recipes, the cuts are juicy, uniquely seasoned and served with the classic pinquito beans, bread, salsa, choice of green salad or farmers market soup and more.
Your little vaqueros won’t be left behind with choices including beef sliders and steak skewers. The western decor will take you back to the towns Swiss-Italian ranching roots and top-notch service will make you feel like family. If you still have room for desert, do your wild bunch a favor and savor the Crème Brûlée Trio in vanilla bean & lavender shortbread, orange blossom and walnut tuile and seasonal berry & orange biscotti flavors.
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab—a Central Coast go to, serving hand-crafted, premium ice cream in unique monthly featured flavors and original, traditional classics such as Merlot Raspberry Truffle and Elvis Special. The Orcutt Crunch-marshmallow ice cream, caramel, pecans, chocolate chips and toffee, is this location’s featured flavor and Motor Oil—dark chocolate, Kahlua ice cream and fudge swirls—are both worth the stop. The fun interactive parlor design, including an ice cream lab and giant checker board, will keep the whole family entertained while enjoying your treats.
Stay
The newly remodeled Fairfield Inn and Suites Santa Maria is centrally located to main points of interest and right off Highway 101, making it the perfect destination for your stay. Amenities include, fitness center, indoor pool, business center open to all guests, ample free guest parking and convenient in-room refrigerators. The assortment of items offered at the complimentary hot breakfast buffet will surely please even the pickiest of eaters and get you going on your adventures. Your little travelers will enjoy the do-it-yourself waffle maker and you the complimentary 24/7 coffee bar in the lobby. The courteous staff will help you with your needs and make you feel right at home.
Seasonal Adventures
If you’re in the Santa Maria Valley in the spring, be sure to check out the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum’s Free Family Kite Festival. Attracting over 2,000 kite enthusiasts from all over the central coast, the festival is quite a sight to see. It also hosts several children’s educational activity booths with games for the kids, community resources and local vendors including your usual fare of churros, snow cones, kettle corn and more.
Held annually at Rotary Centennial Park, in the beautiful South College Drive neighborhood, the park has two playgrounds, basketball courts, large grassy open space, several picnic tables, restrooms on site, free parking lot as well as plenty of free street parking. Pack a picnic and lawn chairs, wear plenty of sunblock, enjoy the view and live entertainment and don’t forget your kites!
—story and photos by Nella DuBon-Koch unless otherwise noted
Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Santa Maria Valley but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
Get ready to celebrate Easter Cadbury Egg style with this secret Frappuccino menu at Starbucks. While your fave coffee retailer doesn’t outright offer the delish drink, reports recently surfaced instructing chocolate marshmallow egg enthusiasts on how to order the hush-hush beverage!
Most Sbucks fans already know that they can order all kinds of special secret drinks (such as a Harry Potter-themed Butterbeer Frappuccino)—provided you know the magical mix combo. Now the Starbucks Secret Menu website has dished on the recipe so you can order that Cadbury Egg Frappuccino for Easter—or any time of the year.
So how can you make your candy-coated dreams come true? The secret recipe starts with a Java Chip Frappuccino base. Next, add Frappuccino Roast, vanilla and caramel syrup and vanilla bean powder! Barista Manny O. shared the rest of the mix magic with Starbucks Secret Menu. For the full list of must-have ingredients click here.
If that’s enough sweet, sweet goodness for you, why not go ahead and add a Cadbury Egg on the side (of course you’ll have to buy that separately)? We won’t tell!
National Coffee Day is quickly approaching and we’re ready to get our java on. Saturday, Sep. 29 marks the special day and we’re celebrating by revisiting some of the best Starbucks secret menu drinks out there.
No doubt you’ve experienced trying to find your favorite coffee on the Starbucks menu, only to have it disappear! Before you lose your cool, it’s important to know that Starbucks frequently shoves its regular beverages off the menu to make room for speciality and seasonal items. As a result, positively tons of Starbucks menu items that have gained “secret” status over the years—so keep reading to see some of our faves!
The colorful frapp was supposed to be limited-time special back in 2015, but since the ingredients are pretty basic, you can still ask for the Cotton Candy Frappuccino at your local Starbucks any time. Among others, a barista will blend vanilla bean powder and raspberry syrup that combine in a shockingly sweet taste that highly resembles your favorite state fair treat.
Peppermint Mocha
The sought-after holiday drink is actually available all year long because it’s made with just two simple ingredients: mocha and peppermint! Whether you’re embracing the winter spirit or just want to celebrate the season in July, don’t be afraid to ask for this drink any time of the year.
Iced Vanilla Bean Coconut Milk Latte
If you prefer more nut and coconut milk-based drinks, don’t worry if you don’t see them on your local Starbucks menu. The beverage tastes a lot like the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino: coconut milk is mixed with vanilla bean powder and used as base for the latte, with a more powerful coconut flavor.
Your favorite drink that you never knew existed is right here: the Ferrero Rocher Frappuccino! The chocolate-based icy cold beverage is basically a Double Chocolate Chip Frappuccino made with mocha and hazelnut syrup and then topped with more hazelnut drizzle.
Doubleshot on Ice
If you enjoy Starbucks’ canned version of the Doubleshot then you’ll come to love the simpler in-store version that’s made with espresso, milk and sweetener. Why not make it festive and add in some pumpkin spice while you’re at it?
Cinnamon Almond Milk Macchiato
If you’re jones-ing for a hot drink, we recommend switching it up like customers do with last year’s originally iced drink, the Cinnamon Almond Milk Macchiato. It’s made with espresso, almond milk, cinnamon dolce syrup, caramel sauce and a cinnamon dolce topping. It’s proof positive that you can enjoy almost any Starbucks recipe hot or cold.
The aptly named drink is perfect when you need a refresher. The next time you want to try something different, ask for the iced beverage that’s made with a strawberry Acai Refresher, coconut milk, real strawberries and blackberries.
Peach Ring Tea
If peach is more you thing, then order the Peach Ring tea from the secret Starbucks menu. It’s made with half Valencia Orange Refresher and half Passion Tea with no extra water and a just little added peach syrup. It’s the taste of summer!
Butterbeer Latte
Please and thank you when it comes to the Butterbeer Latte! The beverage is actually a Whole Milk Steamer with pumps of caramel, toffee nut and cinnamon dolce strips, topped with whipped cream and caramel bits. Feel free to add a few shots of espresso for an extra kick!
Dining out with kids is always a gamble. Add in a picky eater and a long wait time for food and dining out can be a parent’s worst nightmare. But that’s all about to change when you say hello to downtown Bellevue’s new Lincoln South Food Hall. This full-service dining scene not only provides unique and delish chef-driven quick serve menu choices, but has plenty of options for even the pickiest of eaters and a family-friendly vibe we love. If you’re ready to get your grub on, scroll down for the scoop on this latest dining discovery.
photo: Lincoln South Food Hall
Centrally Located
Located in the heart of downtown Bellevue, across the street from Bellevue Square and right below the new Cinemark Reserve movie theatre is where you will find the new Lincoln South Food Hall. Park in the Lincoln Square parking garage (parking is free with validation from the Lincoln South restaurants or shops within the Bellevue Collection) or access it from any of the covered skybridges that connect The Bellevue Collection and Bellevue Square with Lincoln Square North.
Communal Dining
The space consists of seven fast-casual eateries all under one roof—each with a totally different vibe—but all with communal seating. If you’re thinking this sounds like a food court, think again. Lincoln South Food Hall has one general manager, Reid Kendall formerly of some of Seattle’s top dining spots: mamnoon, Scout, The Nest at the Thompson Hotel and Tallulah’s and one executive chef, Daniel Laferriere formerly of Guy Savoy and Daniel Boulud’s db Brasserie and Wolfgang Puck. The entire Lincoln South Food Hall is under the direction of Bellevue-based Ascend Hospitality Group, in partnership with Jeffrey Frederick of Elite Brand Hospitality Group and Kevin Hee who is Frederick’s director of culinary development. The casual dining environment, which you could call part kitchen, part counter and part bar, offers a variety of quick bites made from high quality ingredients that are locally sourced from artisan purveyors. And sets itself apart from other communal-type dining settings by providing guests with extra amenities like linen napkins, stainless-steel trays and a friendly staff who are on hand to bring you to-go containers, clear your plates and even fill your water glasses.
photo: Kristina Moy
There’s Something for Everyone
Whether you’re in the mood for poké or have a hankering for street tacos, ramen or burgers, Lincoln South Food Hall has you covered. Barrio Luchador, which serves its food out of an uber-cool airstream trailer, is the place to go for street tacos (the pork and pineapple and tender beef cheeks are our faves), quesadillas and chips and house-made salsas. Next door, Avo-Poké is the spot for customizable salad bowls, made with or without six different kinds of traditional Hawaiian poké, plus a wide selection of fresh juices and fruit waters. Crosta E Vino, an Italian-inspired counter, serves wood-fired pizzas, artisanal cheeses and salumi boards and has over 30 red and white wines served from specialty barrel taps. If you’re in the mood for quiche, fancy thick cut toasts, French-inspired sandwiches or ice cream or sorbet, Baguette Epicerie’s grab-and-go counter will surely delight your taste buds.
photo: Kristina Moy
For ramen lovers, Fat & Feathers can’t be beat. This popular (like line around the corner popular) spot offers five versions of ramen spiked with everything from rick pork belly to roast duck to Japanese fried chicken along with delish bao sandwiches. For burger lovers, the Burger Brawler serves up hefty burgers made from a blend of short rib, brisket, chuck and dry-aged ribeye and topped with Italian Taleggio cheese. Their menu also includes two versions of gravy fries (with a foie grass add-on) as well as delish sandwiches, 24 beers on tap, a Guinness infusion draft beer system and a full cocktail bar. If you need a caffeine pick-me-up, Dote will definitely satisfy your caffeine fix and your sweet tooth. Along with espresso, lattes, and signature drinks, Dote offers a delightful array of handmade chocolates (made on site by celebrated Pastry Chef Ewald Notter) as well as pastries, all day breakfast items, seasonal and assorted sandwiches and even boozy coffee cocktails.
photo: Kristina Moy
Kid-Friendly Eats
Whether you’ve got a kiddo who won’t eat meat, a child who can’t stand the sight of veggies or an adventurous eater who will try just about anything, Lincoln South Food Hall has something to satisfy every petite palate. At Barrio Luchador, the children’s menu consists of chicken or cheese quesadillas, chicken or beef tacos with shredded cheese, tortilla chips and mild salsa and sugar and cinnamon chips and Horchata for dessert. Over at Crosta E Vino, kids can choose the cheese and salami board off the kid’s menu or go with a kid-sized cheese, pepperoni or mushroom wood-fired pizza. If a burger and fries is more of your sidekick’s thing, the Burger Brawler serves kid-sized versions of their hefty hamburgers, cheeseburgers and crispy salmon burgers along with fries and vanilla or chocolate milkshakes. Got a little ramen lover in the fam? Head over to Fat & Feathers and let your kiddo order a kid-sized version of the pork belly ramen and add on a Japanese fried chicken bao to really fill her belly. And what kid couldn’t resist Nutella toast with a salted caramel banana or grilled cheese baguette at Baguette Epicerie? Top it off with a scoop (or two!) of Full Tilt ice cream and we’re pretty sure everyone in your crew will go home with full bellies.
photo: Lincoln South Food Hall
Even More Conveniences
With technology, Lincoln South Food Hall has made procuring food as easy as a click, tap or swipe away. Options include self-serve kiosks for grab-and-go items and soon, online ordering for pick-up and delivery through the Food Hall’s website and mobile app. Third-party partners such as DoorDash, Grubhub and Caviar will also be providing delivery services in the future, followed by Uber Eats and Postmates.
Good to Know
1. The space between the tables and the food counters is fairly tight, but there is stroller parking next to the Burger Brawler.
2. In the middle of the Food Hall you’ll find a self-serve water station which makes getting drinks for your kids easy-peasy.
3. Restrooms are located to the right of Baguette Epicerie. Just follow the signs down the hall.
4. Free Wi-Fi is available, just in case your sidekick must watch Dora the Explorer with her wood-fired pizza or you need to pull a little work/lunch double duty.
5. If you’re looking for a gift, stop by Dote Coffee Bar and pick up locally roasted coffee, handmade chocolates, jars of their oh-so delicious ganache (we recommend the vanilla bean white chocolate) or a bag of milk chocolate hazelnuts. You simply can’t go wrong here!
photo: Kristina Moy
Lincoln South Food Hall
500 Bellevue Way
Bellevue, Washington 98004
425-362-6082
Online: lincolnsfh.com
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 6 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri., 6 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat., 9:30 a.m.-midnight; Sun., 9:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Please note that restaurant hours may vary, especially with holidays.
Have you taken your crew to the Lincoln South Food Hall? Planning to go soon? Dish about your experience in the comments below.
January 30th is National Croissant Day and we’re saying”Oui! Oui!” to celebrating the buttery, flaky French pastry that everyone loves. Croissants are perfectly divine on their own, but they can also be filled with everything from chocolate and almond paste to ham and cheese. We’ve toured the city to find the most mouthwatering croissants this side of Paris. Read on to see where to say “Bon Appétit” to this versatile culinary delight and to learn about a local baker’s new spin called the Froissant™!
Le Parfait Paris
With two main locations in Little Italy and Liberty Public Market, Le Parfait Paris serves up croissants every way imaginable. They’ve got plain, with almond filling, with chocolate filling, with almond and chocolate filling… or perhaps you’re in the mood for something more substantial? They also serve croissant sandwiches, including the Alsacien (Swiss cheese, eggs, Canadian bacon) and Saumon (smoked salmon, red onions, capers, cream cheese).
Le Parfait Paris
555 G St.
San Diego, Ca 92101
619-245-4457
2820 Historic Decatur Rd.
San Diego, Ca 92106
619-245-4457
Online: leparfaitparis.com
photo: Bread & Cie
Bread & Cie
This Hillcrest mainstay has a huge array of fresh bread and pastries, including several mouthwatering croissants. In addition to the plain, they also serve almond, chocolate, chocolate and almond, and cinnamon. All are made fresh by hand each day with only the best European butter (which contains more butterfat, meaning it melts faster, meaning your croissant is unbelievably flaky). Paired with a cup of coffee, it’s a great start to any day.
Bread & Cie
350 University Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92103
619-683-9322
Online: breadandcie.com
Cardamom Cafe and Bakery
Is 11 a.m. late breakfast or early lunch? At Cardamom you can make it both. Pick up one of their outstanding almond croissants (named the best in town by San Diego Magazine) as a late-morning snack, but don’t leave before trying one of their famous stuffed croissant sandwiches. Two options include chicken salad with tarragon dressing and the Messy Grilled Cheese with basil and roasted tomato spread. But the great news here is that any of their sandwiches can be made to order as a stuffed croissant.
Extraordinary Desserts
Just when you thought a croissant couldn’t get any more decadent, this popular San Diego dessert spot does something, well, extraordinary. Meet the Froissant™. Owner Karen Krasne said the inspiration came from her love of almond croissants and warm glazed donuts. Her genius invention is a flaky croissant, deep fried and rolled in vanilla bean sugar, before being filled with rich vanilla custard. Sounds like magic!
Extraordinary Desserts
2929 Fifth Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92103
619-294-2132
Petite Madeline
Located just blocks from the beach in Oceanside, this bistro and bakery is a popular spot for a post-surfing refuel. Their croissants are made in-house using a traditional method that takes three days. The care is obvious the moment you bite into one of their flaky pastries. If you need something more substantial, their Breakfast Croissant Sandwich comes loaded with eggs, ham and cheese or spinach and feta.
Petite Madeline
223 N. Coast Highway
Oceanside, Ca 92054
760-231-7300
Online: petitemadelinebakery.com
Tell us your favorite spot to pick up a croissant in the comments!
