Mochinut - Lincoln Park

"This Near West Side donut shop is part of a Hawaiian-based chain with locations across the country. And though chains are usually hit-or-miss, their mochi donuts are great. Mochinut’s rice flour base means they have a stretchy, sticky interior and a crispy exterior. There are over 20 to choose from, but the savory and fruity flavors complement the dough more than the straight-up sweet ones. So go for the black sesame, matcha, or mango." - John Ringor

"If you’re a fan of mochi, chances are you’ve heard of Mochinut. This SLU shop located in the lobby of 400 Fairview specializes in chewy fried donut rings made of rice flour (but note that they aren’t gluten-free). With toppings ranging from cinnamon sugar to matcha glaze, they’re not the best donuts in town, but still a decent option should you find yourself in the neighborhood craving a sweet, or feel like being the office hero by grabbing a dozen." - Aimee Rizzo

"This chain is in more than half the states in this country, which means we’re not the only fans. The Japanese-style doughnuts here are made with 95% rice flour and 5% wheat flour, which results in doughnuts that have subtly crispy outsides and soft and chewy centers. With more than 20 different colorful varieties (matcha, black sesame, and peanut butter, for example), you’ll have no trouble finding a few you’ll like. Our go-tos are the coconut and the original. Mochinut also has bubble tea and hot dogs encrusted with things like Hot Cheetos and tiny cubes of fried potatoes. photo credit: Emily Schindler" - Kenny Yang

"Mochi donuts are puffier than most donuts. Since they’re made with rice flour, they’re slightly healthier and naturally gluten-free. These are the facts we tell ourselves when we have the urge to order two or 10 of them from this Old City donut shop. Whether you go with chocolate, ube-glazed, strawberry funnel, or churro, you’ll bite into something that will make you feel as good as warm sunshine. If you’re looking for a light breakfast that’s not another bowl of granola, a donut and matcha tea is the way to go." - Candis R. McLean

"Fast-growing West Coast chain Mochinut plans to bring its mochi doughnuts and Korean hot dogs on sticks to 733 W. Fullerton Avenue in late 2022." - Naomi Waxman