For as long as modern pastries go, the doughnut, the ring-shaped fried sweet pastry has been part of our everyday lives — from global franchises to sidewalk hawkers. Like everything else in the world of gastronomy that started simple, the doughnut has too evolved into the next level. In the past few years, Jakarta has embraced the rise of artisan doughnuts, showcasing the diversity in the craft, innovation, and remarkable new flavours.
Whether you prefer understated richness, a heartfelt simplicity, or indulgent options there is something for every palate. Exploring these offerings is about enjoying a sweet treat and experiencing the thought and care that goes into each creation. Now, let’s roll.
Kios Brios
Located in the popular Potluck compound in Tebet, you can’t miss Kios Brios’ hand-illustrated glass facade. Stepping inside, the modern chic decor translates perfectly into the heavenly aroma that fills the air.
Kios Brios began as a sister brand to another local favourite, Gordon Donuts & Coffee, and was founded with a clear mission to specialise in, as its name suggests, brioche-based doughnuts. The doughnuts here features a richer,more tender dough due to the higher egg content, typical of brioche buns, and they’re also bouncier, thanks to the incorporation of Japanese pumpkin kabocha.
Quality and freshness are central to the philosophy at Kios Brios. “As long as it’s feasible for our COGS, we use locally sourced premium ingredients in the recipes, with all toppings and fillings made in-house, ensuring each component meets our desired standard,” explained founder Lia Esteriny. She also shared the secrets to their fantastic creations, such as the Diplomat cream filling, which is blended with real whipping cream. Another noteworthy aspect is that Kios Brios also opts for a more understated approach to sweetness, creating treats that are balanced and not overly sugary.
Dou Donut
This tiny space started as part of the viral sensation, Mookie Dessert Bar, within Bintaro’s vibrant Fresh Market. This concept played a key role in the brand’s rise. The high demand for Dou Donut led to the opening of a standalone store within the same market, cementing its status as a local favourite.
The doughnuts here are built around a pumpkin-based dough, giving them a distinct flavour and texture. Not only is this ingredient is highly popular at the moment, but it also serves as the foundation for a range of thoughtfully crafted options — evident during our visit.
Each doughnut is designed to resonate with customers seeking a balance of creativity and simplicity — from the subtly brilliant Cheese Brulee and the quirky Matcha Kinako to the complex yet decadent Honeycomb Miso. Even at first glance, they evoke a sense of fun, deliciousness, and a playful challenge to try them.
Founder and baker Putri Rahma explained, “Our character and values play a significant role in shaping Dou Donut’s approach. It emphasises living with intention, balancing passion with purpose, and creating food that feels authentic and meaningful.” These ideals are reflected in the care taken to source ingredients and develop recipes, while the bustling setting further complements the brand’s ethos.
Union Doughnuts
Union Group is no stranger to Jakarta’s culinary landscape, having firmly established itself as a prominent player in the city’s dining scene. Its doughnuts are not new, but they’ve recently transformed with the introduction of potato-based dough. This innovation adds a fresh dimension to the product, offering a texture that is soft yet slightly dense.
The new range has been launched with the flair and attention to detail that Union is known for. Luxurious flavours dominate the menu, with our choice from the bunch including PB & J, Biscoff Coffee, and of course a Union staple, Red Velvet. That’s not all, though; they’ve also launched savoury options like Pistachio and Truffle Mushroom. And for last year’s festive season, they brought back an all-time favourite: Nutella.
Union Doughnuts successfully pairs bold flavour profiles with a more refined presentation, ensuring each item feels special. But that’s not all. The release campaign has been extravagant, featuring an unmissable giant doughnut display that’s sure to turn heads. Combined with the use of premium ingredients, the relaunch demonstrates the brand’s commitment to elevating a classic treat, setting a new standard in modern gastronomy — one that Union has been leading for years.