After spending the morning walking along the snowy waterfront and quiet streets of Portland’s Old Port, the cold began to settle in. Winter mornings near the harbor have a way of doing that.
Just as I considered warming up somewhere, I spotted a familiar sign ahead: The Holy Donut. It felt like the perfect place to stop.
The Holy Donut has become a local favorite in Maine. What makes their donuts special is that they use Maine potatoes. This gives them a slightly denser texture than traditional donuts. The result is something that feels more substantial—somewhere between a classic donut and a soft cake.
Even on a quiet winter morning, the shop carries the warm smell of fresh donuts and coffee.
When I stepped inside, I immediately felt the warmth. The shop was calm and nearly empty. It was a nice contrast to the cold wind outside. A friendly employee behind the counter greeted me and helped me decide what to try.
When I asked for a recommendation, she smiled and said her favorite was the chocolate sprinkle donut. That sounded like a good place to start.
The display case made it hard to choose just one. Rows of donuts sat neatly arranged behind the glass, each topped with different glazes and flavors.
In the end, I chose three:
Chocolate Sprinkles
Maple Bacon
Holy Cannoli Maple
The chocolate sprinkle donut was exactly what you’d expect from a classic favorite. The chocolate frosting was rich and smooth, while the sprinkles added just the right amount of crunch. It’s easy to see why it’s popular.
The maple bacon donut highlighted the sweet-and-salty combination that has become a favorite in many bakeries. The maple glaze had a deep sweetness, balanced by the savory bacon on top. It’s a flavor that feels fitting for a cold Maine morning.
Of the three, the Holy Cannoli Maple turned out to be my favorite. Inspired by the classic Italian dessert, the donut features a maple glaze and a sweet cream topping. It’s a fun little Maine twist that makes it stand out from more traditional flavors.
A Perfect Winter Stop
One of the best things about visiting places like this in winter is the slow pace. During the busy summer months, Portland’s Old Port fills with visitors exploring the waterfront and nearby shops. But on a cold morning after a snowfall, spots like The Holy Donut feel more relaxed. It’s the kind of stop that turns a simple walk around the city into something memorable.
Visiting The Holy Donut
Location:
Portland’s Old Port
Known for:
Maine potato donuts
Price:
Around $4 per donut
Family friendly:
Yes, it’s a fun stop for both kids and adults exploring the Old Port.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes the best travel moments are the simple ones. A quiet walk through a snowy harbor town. Cold air coming off the water. And a warm donut waiting just around the corner.
Portland, Maine
Old Port District
Compass Coast 
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