If you’re visiting Japan, Mister Donut is definitely worth a stop. Originally from the United States but uniquely developed in Japan, this beloved donut chain offers chewy treats like the famous Pon de Ring and a variety of seasonal, Japan-only flavors. In this article, we’ll introduce the charm of Mister Donut, highlight popular menu items, explain how to order, and share helpful tips—so even first-time visitors can enjoy with confidence.
What Is Mister Donut? A Brief History
An American Brand Loved in Japan
Mister Donut originally started in the United States in the 1950s. It was later introduced to Japan in 1971, where it quickly gained popularity and became a pioneer in spreading donut culture across the country. Over the years, Mister Donut has evolved uniquely within Japan, and today, it is widely recognized as “Japan’s go-to donut shop” — a beloved national brand.
Japan’s Unique Evolution and the Birth of “Pon de Ring”
After entering the Japanese market, Mister Donut didn’t just replicate American-style donuts — it began creating original products tailored to Japanese tastes and food culture. One of the most iconic results of this innovation is the “Pon de Ring,” known for its chewy, mochi-like texture. Introduced in 2003, it became an instant hit and has since become a symbolic item of the Mister Donut brand in Japan.
A Nationwide Presence and Lasting Popularity
Mister Donut has expanded across Japan, with over 900 locations as of 2024, from major cities to rural areas. Most stores offer a relaxed, café-style atmosphere where customers can enjoy their donuts with coffee or tea, either for takeout or dine-in. Its welcoming vibe and approachable menu make it a favorite among people of all ages—from children to adults.
What Makes Mister Donut Unique?
The Chewy “Pon de Ring”
When it comes to Mister Donut, the “Pon de Ring” is a must-try favorite. Inspired by the Brazilian cheese bread pão de queijo, this donut is known for its uniquely chewy, mochi-like texture. Since its debut in 2003, it has remained one of the brand’s best-selling and most beloved items.
Its distinctive shape—eight small round segments linked in a ring—makes it fun and easy to pull apart and share. In addition to the classic plain version, seasonal flavors such as brown sugar, strawberry, and matcha are regularly introduced, keeping customers coming back for more.
Fun Collaborations with Popular Characters
Mister Donut regularly collaborates with beloved characters such as Pokémon and Snoopy, offering limited-edition donuts and themed packaging. Among these, the Pokémon donuts are especially popular and often trend on social media for their adorable designs. Many collaboration items come in exclusive boxes and sometimes include collectible goods.
Enjoy Japan-Only Flavors
Mister Donut offers a wide variety of Japan-exclusive flavors that highlight traditional Japanese ingredients. For example, the matcha (green tea) series features rich, authentic matcha flavor that is highly appreciated by locals and visitors alike. Other uniquely Japanese flavors include anko (sweet red bean paste), black sesame, and kinako (roasted soybean flour)—ingredients rarely found in donuts outside Japan, offering a truly one-of-a-kind Japanese dessert experience.
Seasonal limited-edition flavors such as sakura (cherry blossom), chestnut, and sweet potato are also popular, allowing customers to enjoy the flavors of Japan’s four seasons through their donuts.
Menu Overview with Prices (2025 Edition)
Pon de Ring
This donut was inspired by pão de queijo, a type of Brazilian cheese bread, and has been uniquely adapted to suit Japanese tastes. It is lighter and chewier than a typical donut, with a pleasantly elastic texture that sets it apart.
Pon de Ring comes in a variety of flavors. In addition to the classic plain version, there are seasonal and limited-time flavors such as brown sugar, strawberry, chocolate, and Uji matcha, offering new ways to enjoy this popular treat throughout the year.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is one of Mister Donut’s most beloved classic donuts, enjoyed for many years. It features a crispy exterior and a moist, dense interior—simple, yet satisfying, with a flavor that never gets old.
In addition to the plain, uncoated version, there are several popular variations, such as the Choco Fashioned, which is half-covered in chocolate, and the Old Fashioned Honey, which is coated with a sweet honey-flavored glaze.
French Cruller
The French Cruller is a popular donut known for its light, airy texture. It’s similar to choux pastry—soft and delicate, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality that sets it apart from other donuts.
Its distinctive ring shape, created by piping the dough into a twisted circle, is topped with a lightly sweet glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. The elegant appearance makes it visually appealing as well.
There are also several delicious variations, such as the Angel French, filled with whipped cream, and the Strawberry Custard French, which combines a fruity glaze with smooth custard inside.
Yeast Donuts
Yeast donuts are known for their soft and airy texture. At Mister Donut, examples include the Honey Dip and Sugar Raised. Unlike the chewy or crispy texture of donuts like the Old Fashioned or Pon de Ring, yeast donuts offer a fluffy and gentle bite.
Chocolate Donuts
Mister Donut’s chocolate donuts are known for their rich cocoa flavor and slightly bitter taste. Popular varieties include the simple Chocolate, made with a bitter chocolate dough; the indulgent Double Chocolate, with both chocolate dough and coating; and the Golden Chocolate, which features crunchy sprinkles on top of the chocolate donut base.
How to Order at Mister Donut
Walk-in Purchase Without a Reservation
1 Pick up a tray and tongs
When you enter the store, first pick up a tray and a pair of tongs, usually located near the entrance or next to the display case. You’ll use these to select your donuts and place them on the tray—similar to how bakeries work in Japanese supermarkets.
2 Choose your favorite donuts from the display case
The glass display case is filled with dozens of different donut varieties. Check the names and prices shown near each item, then use the tongs to pick up your choices and place them on your tray.
Tip: Product names and descriptions are often written only in Japanese, so it’s helpful to check the official website or use a translation app in advance.
3 Take your tray to the register and say “Eat-in” or “Takeout”
Once you’ve chosen your donuts, bring the tray to the register. Let the staff know whether you’d like to eat in or take out.
4 If you want a drink or a set
At the register, you can also order drinks such as coffee or tea. Set menus that include a drink and a donut may be available, depending on the store.
5 Receive your items and find a seat — or wait with a number slip
If you ordered only donuts, they’re usually handed to you right away. However, if you ordered a drink or a heated item, there may be a short wait. In that case, you’ll receive a number slip. Take a seat and wait—your number will be called when your order is ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
For foreigners visiting Mister Donut in Japan for the first time, things like how to order, how to pay, or what to do inside the store may feel a bit confusing.
To help you feel more confident, here are some helpful tips and advice.
Can I pay without cash?
At most Mister Donut locations, cashless payment methods such as credit cards and electronic payment systems (like Suica, PASMO, and PayPay) are accepted.
Are there English menus?
Since Mister Donut primarily serves local customers, English menus and signs are limited. However, you can easily order by pointing to the items in the display case or using the photo menu when available.
Can I eat inside the store?
Many Mister Donut shops have café-style seating where you can enjoy your donuts with coffee or tea. At the register, just say “Eat here（店内 / Tennai）” if you plan to dine in, or “To go（持ち帰り / Mochikaeri）” if you want to take your order out.
Check for limited-edition items early!
Popular seasonal and collaboration donuts (like Pokémon-themed items) may sell out by the afternoon. If you’re aiming for something specific, visiting in the morning or on a weekday is recommended.
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask in the comments!