A mouth-watering display of sweet treats welcomes guests when they step into Parlor Doughnuts in Fairhope, where the classic combination of coffee and doughnuts gets an exciting upgrade. Satisfy your sweet tooth with flavorful doughnuts like french toast, turtle cheesecake or strawberry shortcake or indulge a savory craving with the sausage biscuit complete with a fried egg, fig jam and sage butter. Whatever your choice, coffee is the ideal pairing.
In October 2025, a 1921 historic building on South Church Street that has housed several restaurants in the past became home to Parlor Doughnuts. Inside, white painted brick walls and blue trim surround a cozy fireplace, where a caramel leather sofa and leather and velvet armchairs encourage guests to relax. Marble tables, a blue velvet banquette, plenty of natural lighting and a mosaic tile floor brighten the space while historic photographs, antique game boards and an old-time radio hearken back to the days of receiving company in a cozy, inviting parlor.
When asked what makes Parlor Doughnuts special, Megan Metz, Gulf Shores native and general manager of the Fairhope location, says, “I think it’s the uniqueness of the doughnuts. The doughnut itself is very versatile and isn’t sweet, and when you top it, that’s what makes it sweet. So, you can use it however you want.” The doughnuts are made with layered dough — crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, making the texture different from a standard cake doughnut or yeast doughnut. Toppings, glazes and fillings customize the experience, and the company has recently started offering savory doughnuts, like pepperoni pizza.
The shop is busy in the mornings, but is also open in the evenings and has become a popular spot for families and locals of all ages. From youth groups stopping in before school to gentlemen gathering for a cup of coffee, Fairhope residents are making Parlor Doughnuts part of their weekly routine. “We’re getting to know a lot of regulars, so it’s really great getting to see that,” Metz says. “Everyone here is super friendly.”
Of the assorted and creative menu items, French Toast is the most popular, featuring a maple glazed doughnut dusted with cinnamon powdered sugar. Coffee offerings range from classics like espresso shots and cold brew to lattes like the popular white chocolate blondie, which is flavored with white chocolate mocha syrup and maple brown sugar. For those seeking a savory bite, the avo toast and breakfast tacos are popular, and some menu items come in keto, vegan or gluten-free options.
On the Menu
COCONUT CREAM
Get a taste of the tropics with a light yet flavorful coconut cream filled doughnut topped with whipped cream, and toasted coconut adds a bit of crunch.
BACON EGG AND CHEESE
Applewood smoked bacon, a perfectly cooked egg and melty Colby Jack cheese are sandwiched between an unglazed doughnut for a fun reinvention of the breakfast classic.
AVO TOAST
Smooth avocado is spread over crisp sourdough and topped with a boiled egg, everything bagel seasoning and tajin for a hint of spice.
FRENCH TOAST
The most popular doughnut is coated in a maple glaze and maple syrup and topped with cinnamon powdered sugar, putting a fresh spin on a breakfast favorite.
Parlor Doughnuts • 51 S Church St., Fairhope. 210-4184 parlordoughnuts.com
Mon – Thu 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Fri – Sun 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
