One of the latest contenders to arrive at Seattle’s growing doughnut scene is General Porpoise in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Open for just a short time, this eatery is already becoming a number one stop for custard filled doughnuts and a tasty cup of joe. Put aside those “eat healthier” resolutions (if you haven’t already) and read on for the delish deets.
photo: Natalia Dotto Photography
Curds, Custards and Creams. Oh my!
Before you grab the Littles and run out to taste one of these delicacies, you should know there are no fluorescent pink-iced or sprinkle covered doughnuts to be found in the case here. General Porpoise doughnuts are delicate clouds of fried dough, slathered with sugar and filled with jams, creams, custards and curds made fresh with LFdA farm eggs. Vanilla custard (one of our favorites!), chocolate marshmallow and lemon curd are mainstays along with a couple of rotating seasonal fillings (think peaches and cream, plum jam and white nectarine jam), depending on the day and what local purveyors provide.
photo: Natalia Dotto Photography
What’s likely to catch your small fry’s attention is the eye level case of several dozen sugar-laden doughnuts, the hot pink espresso maker, that ever so sweet blue porpoise on the cups of steamed milk, lattes and Americanos and the absolute deliciousness of the entire tiny cafe. Little legs will need a boost to get into the tall bar seats at the garage-style front window, but they will be able to peer outside while devouring doughnuts and licking sugar covered lips and fingertips.
photo: Natalia Dotto Photography
Get ‘Em Before They’re Gone
General Porpoise pastry chef, Clare Gordon, fries up dozens and dozens (and dozens!) of doughnuts every day, hoping to have enough to last until at least 2 p.m.; they close at 3 p.m.. For parents who need a little more fuel than the high-octane of an Americano, General Porpoise has a fridge with bubbles and wine.
photo: Natalia Dotto Photography
Work off the Sugar High
After you and your crew have devoured your share of doughnuts, walk off the sugar overload with a stroll to Cal Anderson Park, less than a half mile away on 10th Ave. This park has plenty of paths to run, walk or scoot along, a children’s play area, a number of oversize chess boards and plenty of space to run off the crazies.
Good to Know
Doughnuts are available for pre-order. Give them a ring and 10 freshly made doughnuts, chef’s choice, will be ready for pick up. Note: fillings vary day-to-day, but they will try to accommodate tastes depending on what’s available. The latest in Renee Erickson’s food empire, General Porpoise sits on East Union St. next to two more of her popular (and super tasty!) restaurants, Bar Melusine and Bateau.
General Porpoise
1060 E. Union St.
Seattle, Wa 98122
206-900-8770
Online: gpdoughnuts.com
Open: Daily, 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Have you been to General Porpoise? What’s your favorite flavor? Dish in the Comments below!
— Natalia Dotto
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