car wash donuts at underwest

This past weekend was mostly about books. In general, it was about books and all things writing. Until my sister mentioned the Book Riot Live conference, I’d sadly not heard of Book Riot. Big miss on my part. I’ve since started listening to their podcast and followed their updates – full of useful info for readers and writers alike. When my sister signed up for their conference, I decided to join her to see what it was all about.

I was super excited to find that the space for the event, Metropolitan West, was located directly next door to a spot I’ve been meaning to try – Underwest Donuts. I don’t think I realized just how far west they are located – just across the street from The Intrepid. Interestingly enough, they are situated inside of a car wash – something I found fun until the workers wouldn’t stop yelling at me on my way over. Don’t let that deter you, though. Just keep on walking.

It’s a very unassuming space. After buying our donuts, we sat on the bench outside to enjoy them. During the 15 minutes we were there, we directed two groups as to where the business actually is. The space is small, and they clearly make their donuts elsewhere and bring them in. From the small space, you can see out into the car wash in both directions.

They have some beverages on their menu, but the focus is on the main thing – donuts. They have two main kinds – sugared and glazed. For sugared, you can find things from cinnamon to espresso beans and glazed, they range from brown butter to halva (a confection made of sesame flour and honey).

I went with their maple waffle donut – a maple glazed donut that was topped with a small crunchy sliver of a stroopwafel. Swoon. The cake donut was a perfect consistency – not too dense or too dry. It was on the sweeter side, but not overwhelmingly so. Trying out their halva is next on the agenda.

Underwest Donuts – 638 W 47 Street (at West Side Highway) – 212.317.2359