New York: Union Square & Greenwich Village Donut Food Tour

Summary

Union Square donut walk with tastings and stories in Greenwich Village

You’ll wander New York’s Union Square and Greenwich Village tasting fresh bombolone, classic donuts from a local institution, and a soft brioche pastry at Mah-Ze-Dahr. Alongside your guide you’ll hear stories behind each spot and catch small city moments you wouldn’t notice alone — plus plenty of sweet bites along the way.

What’s the experience like?

We landed in Union Square just as the city was waking up — not that it ever really sleeps, but you know what I mean. Our guide, Maya, was already waving us over by the subway entrance, holding a box that smelled like warm sugar and something citrusy. First stop: Unregular Bakery. I’d never tried bombolone before (had to ask how to say it), but biting into one of those pillowy Italian donuts with lemon cream inside… honestly, I almost forgot there was a whole tour ahead. The staff behind the counter joked about which flavor would ruin us for regular donuts forever. They might’ve been right.

Walking through Union Square with our little group, Maya pointed out these odd bits of history — like the statue everyone rubs for luck (I did it, just in case). There were street musicians tuning up near the park benches and the usual swirl of people: joggers dodging pigeons, a couple arguing about directions. The air had that faint roasted coffee smell drifting from somewhere nearby. We stopped at this place in Greenwich Village that’s apparently been doing donuts since 1964 — wall-to-wall trays stacked high. I picked a chocolate-glazed one because it looked messy and honest. It was gone in three bites.

I think my favorite part wasn’t even the eating (though that’s saying something). It was how Maya knew everyone — she’d wave at someone behind the counter or point out which bakery used to be a jazz club. At Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery, our last stop, we tried this brioche donut that was soft enough to tear apart with your fingers. I got powdered sugar everywhere; no one seemed to mind. There was this quiet moment where we all just stood outside on the sidewalk, licking our fingers and laughing about who could eat another round (not me). I still think about that view down the street — sunlight hitting old brick buildings and people carrying boxes of pastries home for later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Donut tasting and walking tour

• Visit Unregular Bakery for bombolone
• Walk through Union Square, see landmarks
• Walk Greenwich Village, see landmarks
• End tour at Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery

Top questions

How long is the New York donut food tour?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but expect several stops with walking between Union Square and Greenwich Village.

Are there vegan or gluten-free options on this donut tour?

No specific mention of vegan or gluten-free options is provided in the description.

Does this tour include pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet your guide at Union Square.

Is this donut food tour suitable for kids?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are allowed.

What bakeries do we visit on this New York donut tour?

You’ll visit Unregular Bakery for bombolone, an iconic Greenwich Village shop from 1964, and Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery.

Is public transportation nearby for this food tour?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Union Square.

Are service animals allowed on this donut food tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour route.

What’s included

Your day includes guided walks through Union Square and Greenwich Village with tastings of Italian bombolone donuts at Unregular Bakery, classic donuts from a historic shop dating back to 1964, plus a final brioche treat at Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery before saying goodbye in Manhattan’s lively streets.