My Trip to Auntie Ruth’s: The Tennessee Donut Spot Serving Face-Sized Treats You Can’t Miss

Is there anything better than donuts in Tennessee, or really anywhere for that matter? I would venture to say very few things because the soft, delectable delights are one of my favorite treats. I thought I knew donuts pretty well after spending several decades on this earth and eating my fair share of them, but nothing prepared me for the heavenly glory that is Auntie Ruth’s. These donuts were praised far and wide, so I visited the first Auntie Ruth’s stand in Limestone next to Troyer’s. Now, they have a second location in Johnson City, making indulging much easier.

I was there when the sign went up in Johnson City, and everyone started getting excited for the second location of Auntie Ruth’s. I watched with bated breath as the doors opened just to partake in their amazing treats once again. I have to confess something, however. I never tried one of the huge donuts until they opened in Johnson City. Due to dietary sensitivities, donuts don’t always sit well, but after some healing, I was ready to jump back on the horse and give it a shot again. The donuts at Auntie Ruth’s are made from sourdough, and I joked with my wife that they are basically healthy. 

I have always loved the pretzels, and just thinking about those soft and salty delights right now gets my mouth watering. So when I walked into the store to see the inviting and warm environment, I was delighted to see the kitchen was open. While I waited in line, I watched in amazement as the women cut the dough and effortlessly flipped the elongated piece into the perfect shape of a pretzel. Meanwhile, I also witnessed the sticky sweetness of the glaze oozing off the freshly made donuts drip down onto the pan as they hung from the cooling pegs.

I was there for one thing: a famous glazed donut, but I have to admit the entire glass case seemed pretty tempting. Every time I have gone back, they have some of the most unique and tantalizing options for sale. The seasonal donuts look great, and of course, every one of them is bigger than my hand.

I made my order and sat down at a table with my wife. My little girls skipped off to the kid's area in the corner, where they had toys and books. It felt like a date with just me and the love of my life, and I applaud the design, which gives the kids something to do and affords us some precious alone time. My name was called, and they handed me my bag. When I grabbed the behemoth of a donut, I noticed the gargantuan size. It was bigger than my face!

This fresh bakery delight was warm, and I excitedly took my first bite, which left me making an audible “mmm.” The soft dough melted in my mouth as the sweet, sticky glaze burst with sugary flavor. The warm treat sent its glowing temperature all throughout my mouth. It was light and didn’t sit heavy in my stomach, and I can happily say it didn’t hurt me one bit. I was hooked, and I have gone back multiple times since. I still dream of those donuts.

Now, when it comes to donuts in Tennessee, there is no better place than Auntie Ruth’s. I can’t wait till the next time I get to visit, and I honestly am always looking for another excuse to sneak away and partake in a heavenly treat. Trust me when I say this is one of the best donuts you will ever eat. I would highly recommend ordering a simple glazed donut at Auntie Ruth’s; it might just change your life. 

Now, something this good never comes without a calorie cost, but for that, I have good news. Buffalo Mountain is right in Johnson City, and you can pull out your AllTrails app, find a trail that fits your timeframe, and then get to work off those donuts.