It’s doubtful that any independent donut shop could compete with Portland’s Voodoo Doughnut shops in terms of popularity. Furthermore, even most chains haven’t achieved the same sort of pop-culture recognition that Voodoo Doughnut has. Featured in shows like Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations, Man v. Food, and Attack of the Show, Voodoo Doughnut was also featured as a destination in The Amazing Race and even made an appearance on The Simpsons 20^th Anniversary Special In 3-D! On Ice! But just what is it that makes the Voodoo Doughnut shop so special? Before even getting to the menu, one answer might be the pride that Portlanders take in it. Mayor Tom Potter made the Portland Cream (a Bavarian-cream-filled donut with chocolate frosting and two eyes) the “Official City Doughnut” in 2008, and thanked the owners for providing jobs and pride to Portlanders. Another unique feature is the alternative service Voodoo Doughnut offers: legal weddings. If you’ve ever wanted to tie the knot with a donut party for reception, this is probably your best bet.Of course, the most attractive part of the Voodoo Doughnut shop is its nihilistic menu, which seems to have no limits. Well, that’s not quite trueboth the NyQuil Glazed doughnut and the Vanilla Pepto Crushed Tums doughnut were discontinued due to intervention by local health officials. The remaining menu is by turns vulgar and charming, including monstrosities like the Bacon-Maple bar and Mango Tango (filled with mango jelly and topped with vanilla frosting and Tang). The signature Voodoo Doll doughnut is the de facto mascot for the shopa cartoonish chocolate covered doll filled with raspberry jelly and impaled by a pretzel stick.Whether you’re an adventurous eater or just an appreciator of oddities, Voodoo Doughnut is a must-see for any Portland traveler, as well as one that will stay in your mind (and on your tongue) for long after your visit.

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