The Underground Donut Tour launches in Vancouver

The art and history of the doughnut are celebrated at four downtown and Gastown stops

By Gail johnson

Cartems Donuts.

IF THERE’S SUCH a thing as donut culture, it’s getting a boost in Vancouver. The Underground Donut Tour has just launched its first Canadian offering here, with a two-hour walking tour of all things doughy, cakelike, sugared, glazed, sprinkled, filled, twisted, and old fashioned.

The company started out nearly eight years ago as a passion project by Chicago doughnut fanatic Jeff Woelker. Little did he know that so many people shared his love for the deep-fried treat. Now, the tour operates in London, Dublin, Philadelphia, New York, Portland, Seattle, Boston, Miami, New Orleans, and Nashville, with additional locations in the works. Each one features tidbits (not Timbits) of neighbourhood lore, plus insights into the art and history of doughnuts.

Cartems Donuts.

The four-stop Vancouver Downtown & Gastown Donut Tour starts at Breka Bakery (812 Bute Street) and ends at Cartems Donuts (534 West Pender Street). (No, it doesn’t actually travel underground, and yes, Lee’s Donuts makes an appearance even though the walk doesn’t go as far as Granville Island.)

"Vancouver has always been on our list of cities we wanted to open,” Woelker said in a release. “It's truly one of the most beautiful cities in North America and when we saw the incredible selection and styles of donuts available, everything just clicked.”

Tours run rain or shine Fridays through Sundays.

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