Gibson's Donuts

We had a great experience with Gibson’s Donuts. The donuts were fresh, soft, and full of flavor—honestly some of the best we’ve had. What stood out even more was the service. Everyone was incredibly kind and welcoming, which made the visit even better. Definitely a place we’d happily come back to.

Gibson Donuts is absolutely a must stop in Memphis. We went in the morning and the donuts were still warm, fresh out of the oven, and you could immediately tell why this place is such a local favorite. We tried the Cinnamon Toast and the Red Velvet donuts, and both completely lived up to the hype. My personal favorite was the Cinnamon Toast—it was perfectly fluffy, with just the right amount of sweetness and that warm, nostalgic flavor that makes you want to order a second one on the spot. Truly the kind of donut you remember long after you’ve left. If you’re visiting Memphis, put Gibson Donuts at the top of your list. It’s worth every bite.

Wow!! grew up with Gibsons my kids too I havent been here in years its not worth the hype anymore. Had like 10 kids in there case was minimal for a place thats open all day. Opted for dozen of choclate that taste like day old spent 18.00. Back in day the owner would make you any kind you wanted and case was always full of options but that case to be dang near empty with that many kids working in there and again they taste terrible, I drove from across town for Gibsons that is def not there anymore, waste of time an money.

Gibson’s Donuts truly lives up to the hype! They’ve got a wide variety of delicious donuts, from classic favorites to fun flavors—and every one I tried was fresh, fluffy, and full of flavor. What really made the experience special? I told them it was my first time visiting, and they generously gave me a free donut to try. That kind of warm, welcoming service is rare and really appreciated. On top of that, the prices are super affordable, making it an easy choice whether you’re grabbing one or a dozen. If you’re in Memphis and craving a sweet treat, Gibson’s is a must-stop.

These are the best doughnuts I've ever had. Their yeast donuts are so airy they melt in your mouth.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I’m not usually a donut person, but Gibson’s is the exception — their bacon donut is the only one I’ll eat! The dough is soft, the glaze is full of flavor, and the prices are super reasonable compared to other donut shops (and honestly, they don’t taste this good). Service is always quick and friendly — I’m in and out within a few minutes every time. Highly recommend!

Highly recommend. Went in and the girl that helped us out, made us feel like we were the only one in the store, even tho there was a line. In front of us was a family from Oklahoma and behind us was a couple of guys from Georgia… their reputation is well known. The donuts are so soft, so fresh, and oh so delicious. We were so happy that we drove the extra hour to check them out!

The customer service was top tier- they were constantly bring out hot donuts. When I requested a fresh cinnamon roll, the young lady said, SURE! She also said would you like a fresh apple fritter, I said yes, and she went to the back and got one! Mind you the line is literally out the door and they were still taking the time to have great customer service and pay attention to detail. The donuts were soft, fresh, clouds of goodness. They are not too doughy and they are not overly sweet. If you have a morning sweet tooth or would like to enjoy a late night snack they are open 24/7. If you are in Memphis I highly recommend this gem!!!!

Aside from this donut shop not being the infamous "Round Rock" donuts, Gibson's is worth the drive and the staff is always patient and friendly! There is no competition for the quality pastry in this area. If you want great tasting, mouth watering, finger licking good donuts, you will only get it at Gibson's! Just my very own opinion. Suga

Wow! Wow! Wow! I visited Gibson's on a work trip to Memphis and am I one lucky girl to have been able to do so! All the folks working were very kind, and patient with me (as a first-timer). The establishment is also very clean inside. Now about the donuts :)! All 6 donuts in the photo in this review, were delicious! The vanilla glazed with sprinkles donut, was my personal favorite. But seriously, you cannot go wrong with any of their options, the dough is fresh and just incredibly tasty! I will be going back to Memphis just for Gibson's. Anyone in Memphis should give this donut shop a try and let me know what you think. You won't regret it!

Got there early to enjoy freshly made glazed donuts. Fantastic yeast based donuts, fluffy and well glazed. Got the freshly cooked blueberry donuts, great. Wife loves the Boston cream donuts filled with a custard. Topped off my order with a couple of strawberry jelly filled donuts. Also yesterday got 2 Gibson Donut Christmas themed long sleeved t-shirts at 1/2 price for $10 each.

We were in Memphis for a family event this weekend and decided to visit Gibson's Donuts before heading to the airport to fly home. This was likely a wise decision- if we would have visited earlier in the trip, we probably would have gone back every day. These are some of the best donuts I've ever had. The original glazed and the red velvet were well-received, but the cinnamon roll was the fan favorite- light, airy, and flavorful. The mistake we made was visiting later in the day, as most of the flavors we wanted were sold out. Efficient and timely service as well. Overall, a great experience!

Gibson's Donuts is an absolute Memphis classic and a must-stop if you're in town. The atmosphere has that old-school charm that makes it feel timeless, and the service is fast, friendly, and efficient--even when it's busy. The donuts are always fresh and hit the spot every time. It's one of those places that lives up to the hype and keeps locals and visitors coming back.

Great donuts! Someone brought them in so I can't speak to the store, but I grabbed an Oreo donut before they quickly disappeared and it was delicious. Light and fluffy and great flavor icing. I'll definitely be back.

This is what I would call a 5 star establishment! Everything was top tier from the service to the amazing donuts, do yourself a favor and don't hesitate to visit Gibson's Donuts I would be surprised if you are disappointed.

Can't recommend this enough. 100% go. 100% get there early. And 100% get the New Orleans style cake donuts. You will be in heaven. Best donut I've had ever. What else can I say?

I feel so blessed to have met Britton today at Gibson's Donuts. It made my day. Not only were the donuts delicious, the staff was amazing with each customer. First off, I could not tell the customers from the staff because it was like walking into someone's family event. Everyone was happy, so joyful to each other, smiling and laughing. It was like I stepped out of Memphis and into Gibson Wonderland of Sugar. As Britton approached me, to start my order, it was obvious it was properly my first visit. We laughed for moment about it. I ordered 2 dozen and he walked me through each flavor. So many DELICIOUS flavors to choose from. I shared with Britton I found them on Yelp and how impressive it is that they had an almost perfect 5-star score and over 900 reviews. Clearly the community loves them and their donuts. He explained they make everything from the dough to the icing in-house fresh every morning. He also shared some history and the book he wrote that they offer in the store. The book is called: "The Donut Shop That Never Sleeps" The book illustrations are absolutely beautiful. So much love jumps off every page. Stop by for a Donut and the Book. Thank you Britton, my staff loved them.

This is a must go to spot for sweet cravings. The rotating staff, all are super nice and cordial. If you don't see what u may want, ask. They don't mind checking. My church gets donuts weekly here for our after service coffee n donuts. I personally stop now due to not having transportation when I'm in the area. Probably a lil less than when I was driving. Lollol. You won't be disappointed. Bon appetit. I have no pics at the moment. Next visit.

Best donuts in the city with all types of toppings and fillings. My favorite is Red Velvet and original glazed. Service is always top notch as staff are very friendly and willing to help you pick the best donut combinations. Restaurant is clean and great representation of East Memphis. I tell all my family to visit this restaurant for authentic Memphis flavor. No donut shop in city can compete with Gibson's

I'm in Memphis several times a year - and I have to stop in Gibson's at least once - maybe twice each time. The charm of this place is old school coffee shop - feels so nostalgic and warm. The folks that work here are relatable and share recommendations. It's a great late night spot too...the donuts start coming out hot in the wee hours if you happen to be around. Coconut, Glazed and Buttermilk are my faves and I always try something new each time too. Swing by if you're in town. It's worth it - Love a non chain classic like this.

Inside has basic seating for a coffee shop style ambiance. The service was outstanding. I was contemplating getting some Dunkin' Donuts for or crew, when a local said don't do that. You need to go to Gibson's. They are legendary. I bought two dozen assorted for my crew. And a deadhead Gibsons donuts shirt. This is a local favorite. At 5am a small line was already starting.

This place does donuts great - and it appears everyone knows it - the place is so busy! But they take care of folks quick and it all moves fast! The glazed donut - The apple fritter - all great and well executed donuts! And kudos to this place, for keeping up the big retro neon signage. Looks killer at night!

I am so glad I visited this place during my short trip to Memphis - the donuts are adventurous and taste excellent. Make sure to tell the staff if it is your first time visiting, as they will make your experience just that bit more fun. I loved the red velvet donut especially, but the other donuts were some of the better donuts I have had in my life. Although, beware the queue might be long when you visit. One thing I would say is, I first tried to go late at night when they were supposed to be open, but the shop was shut. So perhaps consider changing your opening hours.

These are hands down the best donuts I've had in any state--no exaggeration. Their classic glazed is perfectly done, but what really sets them apart are the creative, non-traditional flavors. My personal favorites are the bacon maple (sweet and savory perfection), red velvet (rich and moist), Oreo (a total crowd-pleaser), and the pineapple fritters (absolutely unique and packed with flavor). Yes, there are often long lines--but don't let that scare you off. The staff is fast, friendly, and efficient. The line moves quickly and the service is consistently great. They get you in and out with zero hassle. An easy 5 stars. If you're anywhere nearby, don't miss this spot.

Gibson's Donuts are always fresh and delicious. Large variety also. My favorites are the chocolate glazed and any of the cake donuts.

Gibson's Donuts is an iconic Memphis staple it was established in 1967 and has been going strong ever since. I like to come very early on the weekends to get my fix because the line is sometimes out of the door. The current business hours are 5 am- Midnight. They used to stay open 24/7 and was a good place to get a donut after clubbing all night. The donuts are delicious and fresh there's a great variety of flavors to choose from as well as coffee and other beverages to dunk. The employees are excellent at expediting the orders to move the line along swiftly. You can tell that there's a lot of Memphis Pride throughout the shop and it has that cozy feeling almost as if you are all neighbors or went to school together. I would certainly recommend this place if you've never experienced it. Get up early once they sell out that's it.

Gibsons is an experience and it should not be missed. I took my kids there when they were little, now that they are adults, they still want to go. Always a great selection and always fresh.

I usually have a good experience but today the girl that was supposed to be helping me and my family was kinda rude. she asked us a question and in the middle of us answering she interrupted us and said " urgh, nevermind" we still bought the donuts but it'll be a while before we come back. highly disappointed. she was skinny, kind of short and had an afro

I can't describe how amazing the red velvet donut is! Definitely a new favorite. Friendly service as well!

There aren't many things in Memphis better than a Gibson's donut. I don't care what flavor you get, it's going to be good. I'm a sucker for the plain old glazed version. Glazed chocolate is pretty fire too. Blueberry Cake is also in the run of the best thing to hit my tongue. Maple Bacon has to be on the list, for sure, but only one every 90 days for me. It's almost too much! Screw the sprinkles though, not my jam, others like them so I buy them. The people are always great. It's always a chill vibe. It's not ever stuffy or rude, but they do have fun so don't be surprised if they are laughing and playing with each other while you are getting your fix. They still use the really old donut cooking equipment from like 99 years ago when they first started here in Memphis. Did you know they were the official donut purveyor on the Santa Maria back in the day. The Spanish knew they would need some high quality sweets on the voyage to try and foster happiness and camaraderie. What better than Gibson's to provide that need! So basically, if it wasn't for Gibson's, there would be no America! Not sure how I missed reviewing Gibson's. What a giant oversight. Sometimes places have so many positive reviews, it just seems silly to write another one. I feel like this is long overdue, I hope you enjoyed some Gibson's history!! '24 - 7/100

The donuts are absolutely delicious. They are light, airy, slightly sweet. The texture of the donut is light sturdy yet delicate. The area around the shop is questionable but haven't had a problem yet. The service is fast. Most of the workers are polite a few have a sour face on? Young people A few of our favorites are the cinnamon twists, glazed, apple fritters, and jelly filled are the better of all the donuts

The absolute freshest and best local donut. Everyone is friendly and an actual donut made fresh is mouthwatering. Want a treat you won't be disappointed in this is the place!

10/10! Delicious donuts, soft, delicate and not too sweet! Our first time here: staff were super friendly and welcoming, we were offered multiple free donuts to test. Went back again and ordered some new flavors and some of the old ones. Ate 14 donuts in one seating!! :D Enough space to seat and enjoy your freshly baked donuts and freshly brewed coffee. All were amazing!

Great high quality gourmet donuts at reasonable prices and great service. If I lived nearby I would be going by on the regular. Wish the world had more places like this.

A donut institution that you definitely shouldn't miss! Standouts that we are are, of course the maple bacon donut...soft, perfect maple icing, freshly cooked real bacon...and the pineapple fritter. I've never had a fritter as light but dense and flavorful!

Yep, still a solid 5/5 for me. Great service and fresh donuts. I'm proudly exporting their donuts out of state when I visit friends and family. Classic glaze, chocolate, plain, old fashioned, and maple glaze are all excellent choices. Love it.

First time eating donuts at Gibson's and they were amazing. I'll be definitely be returning!!! Great staff and donuts!!!

Best donuts ever and seasonal favorites. Try the pumpkin with cream cheese frosting.

You can't go wrong with donuts! However, I was disappointed with the customer service here. There were a few young employees working who did not greet us, were on their phones, and didn't know much about the products. We asked questions about the freshness of the donuts and they could not tell us. We liked the variety of donuts that we tried, but I wish the employees had more customer service training. The donuts are all less than $2, which is great. Be aware that the parking lot is always busy, so it may be hard to find parking.

Unfortunately, Gibson's is a textbook example of a once wonderful 'institution' now complacent and lazy, living on their old reputation. Donuts not yeasty, fluffy like they used to be. They never have much of a selection anymore - last 3 visits they had 2-3 types and no glazed. Staff really doesn't care, it's really dirty, just makes me sad. Today they had 3 people behind the counter and 2 types of chocolate donuts, about 9-10 pieces total. I asked for some glazed in back, they laughed and said pick from these. I have fond memories of Gibson's over the last 35 years, I'll choose to remember when it was good. I won't be back anymore, but I don't think they'll miss me. Seems to still be busy, thats good, farewell old friend...

Just stopped in for the first time. A very nice, cute young lady asked what I was thinking. When I told her I didn't know, that it was my first time here she said "Hang on, I've got something for you" and disappeared into the back. I figured it was for a sample bite on a toothpick but when she came out of the back she literally TOSSED a whole, soft glazed donut through the air toward me!! I caught it and she said "first one's free if you catch it"! ... gotta tell you, this donut was SO soft!!!! It was delicious. The glaze wasn't sickeningly sweet but had a somewhat milky, creamy taste. I picked out a couple (... she just gave me a free one it would have been impolite to just get one...... lol) and a drink and thanked her. But before I turned to leave o said "hey.... What would you have done if I didn't catch that donut"? She smiled and said "I would have just thrown you another". BTW the other two I got were (abandoning my usual white cream filled) a strawberry filled (which wasn't just jelly but what seemed like preserves with bits of strawberry and seeds) and an INCREDIBLE looking cruller!! Anyway, if you're on East Memphis (I think that's where it is) stop by and at LEAST get some glazed!! I'm already bummed I didn't get more glazed...

This is the kind of place where you have to go to at least once, mostly just to say you've been (in my opinion). We purchased the sour cream, blueberry, maple iced, and caramel iced donuts. None of them left us wanting to come back but it wasn't bad enough for us to not recommend it. They were just ok, very reminiscent of store bought donuts. Service was fast and friendly enough. You can see the history of the place, both in the decor as well as the pictures on the walls recounting their milestones. All in all, this is the kind of place you go to because of its history and standing within the community. Whether you return or not would be on what you order.

The freshness and variety is top tier....We love this place!! The customer service is excellent as well! A true icon of the Memphis landscape!

I heard this was the best donut in Memphis. The staff really do throw a donut at you if it's your first time there. It's free if you catch it. This place had one of the best apple fritter I've ever had.

Service is great but I am a glazed doughnut guy and it's so hit or miss with the glaze in particular. 1, they will likely be out of you come last 2 pm. 2. They are not fully cooked half the time. Bought 3 yesterday and all 3 were CHEWY. Just like the last 2 visits..... All others are great but the classic glaze needs consistency.

If I could give Gibson's 6 stars, I would in a heartbeat! I have pretty high expectations for donuts and these still knocked my socks off! First of all, they were so cheap... I'm still in disbelief because they could charge a lot more considering the quality. But the entire experience from the moment we walked in to the moment we left was fantastic. The owner was there chatting with customers and we could tell that he genuinely cared about both the locals who were returning and the first-timers who were visiting for the first time. All of the staff working behind the counter were extremely efficient with taking and fulfilling orders as well as making sure everyone had been helped and the line was moving quickly. We got a dozen assorted donuts and just picked out what looked or sounded good. Honestly, there wasn't a single donut that we didn't love! But, the standouts were definitely the original glazed donut, maple bacon donut, red velvet cake donut, and blueberry cake donut. We almost didn't get an original glazed donut because that just seemed a little too basic but I'm SO happy we didn't skip it... that was the best glazed donut I've ever had! We ended up going back through the line and getting an extra glazed donut and 2 maple bacon donuts because they were so good! My husband is a huge fan of maple bacon donuts and said it was the best he's ever had. Overall, the standard yeast donuts were phenomenal because they had the perfect texture... light and airy without disintegrating in your mouth (no offense Krispy Kreme). I'm also a huge fan of cake donuts and these blew me away... they had a great density while still being moist. I actually live near Round Rock Donuts and have always been very loyal to them, but I have to say that Gibson's Donuts surpassed them in my ranking as the best donuts I've had!

Listen, I tried this spot from word of mouth. My flight crew said they were the best donuts around. They were right! I just got a glazed donut to go with my coffee but when the team heard it was my first time, they gave me a fresh baked glazed donut for free! The team was so fun and friendly. Would definitely recommend stopping by if you are ever in Memphis. It's a simple donut shop but the flavors are extra ordinary!

This was my first time visiting Gibson and I promise it felt like home! They even gave me two donuts for being a first time customer. I ordered a variety box. I wanted to sample as many as possible. I had the oreo, rainbow, st, patty's, chocolate, powdered, and traditional glazed. They all were buttery and delicious! What I was surprised by and appreciated mostly is even though they are a popular brand in the city, but they still are affordable! If you haven't had them, I would definitely suggest stopping in!

When visiting Memphis this past week, I had a couple of places I knew I had to visit based on some of the top lists (2022) from Yelp. As Gibson's donuts was on the Top 100 Donuts list and was continually named one of the best donuts in Tennessee, it was a must try! When I arrived at 7:15AM on a Tuesday, there was a pretty good line going inside that wrapped around a line of chairs they had setup. I was a bit nervous on how long it would take, but they hustled and the line moved very quickly. I had read reviews online, asked Memphis natives on my flight and also asked the woman behind the counter for what the "must-try" items were. The results seemed to be the same no matter where you looked or who you asked... a Plain Glazed Donut, a New Orleans Buttermilk Donut and a Maple Bacon Donut. I'm not one to second guess the word of basically everyone so I ordered the three suggested donuts, here are my thoughts: 1) Plain Glazed Donut - While not a donut I would typically order... I don't think I'd ever visit Gibson's again without getting this one. It was the best glazed donut I've every had. Extremely soft, flakey and fluffy. Absolutely perfect! 2) New Orleans Buttermilk - A slightly thicker cake donut with a good sugary flavor (basically the cake version of a glazed donut). While not one I would get every time, it is absolutely worth trying! 3) Maple Bacon - This may break some hearts but this donut was not for me. The flavor of bacon was too strong (for me) and I just wouldn't ever put the two together. One bite of this one was enough for me but my colleague happily finished it off for me so it didn't go to waste! I'm so glad I visited and this definitely does belong on the list of the Top 100 in the US! Visit if you're in Memphis and get the glazed!

Always fresh, prompt service. Only blemish is no long John's. Fruit filled donuts overflow with taste!

Friendliest staff ever! This was our first time here and I read in other reviews that the apple fritter was great. That's not something I would normally order (especially in the summer, more of a fall item for me). However, listen to the reviews and get the apple fritter! It is amazing and by far the best one that I have ever had. The crispy edges and soft center with the cinnamon spice flavor is soooo good. I miss it already! We got a few other donuts as well that were also very good. Be sure to tell them it's your first time and they will toss you a free donut and announce it! Such a fun place! If we are ever back in the area, we will be stopping again for sure! We've already recommended it to several friends!

Amazing. Next world especially the mini apple fritters. Well worth it and are decent when frozen and brought back to room temp. You do have to per order the minis. Service is super nice and easy going. Many times if you get just 1 doughnut, they will not charge you. Ambiance is what you would think; an old school doughnut shop.

Great donuts! We stop to Gibson's and bought only 2 dozen That was a mistake! The donuts... all of them... are delicious! Don't make the same mistake!

Well, if you want a taste of heaven, take a ride to Gibson's donuts I've been eating Gibson's donuts for over 20 years and the donuts are always deliciouly consistent. But be careful because it's very easy to add up those calories, especially with my favorite (The Apple Fritter) the staff is always friendly and the service is run like a perfectly oiled wheel.

We got into Memphis late and my cousin's husband was also out late at a work event. When he called to check-in on our arrival, he asked if we wanted "Gibson's." I had no idea what this meant but my cousin squealed with excitement--it was 10:00 PM at night, pizza or ice cream? I never would have guessed he was referring to FRESH WARM DONUTS. The donut box included glazed, iced cake, plain cake and old fashioned. I have never ever had a donut that just melted in your mouth. Krispy Kreme cannot compete. Dunkin Donuts isn't even in the game. Fractured Prune isn't on this level. Duck Donuts is officially lost. Nothing compares to Gibson's. Notes: They have adorable merchandise, including shirts! If you go online to their website, they have a daily coupon for you to use. For example today's is $10.00 off!

One of my favorite travel YouTubers recommended this place, as I'm really big on donuts. Service was quick, friendly and helpful. They have a limited selection of cake donuts, which I mostly prefer. But they have a lot of good squishy yeast ones too. Their maple bacon donuts rocked. As well as their creme-filled ones. Recommend!

What I used to think--It near as good or fresh as Howard's donuts. Howard's donuts used to have all Of these other donut shops beat, hands down. I wasn't hating on Gibson, just preferred Howard's. Not anymore, I'm back to say, I was wrong and I think it their donuts are the best. The maple bacon is like a pancake and bacon in each bite. although, I've developed a gluten allergy and have to knock it off. Large variety! all options really amazing.