The Organized Eater

In January I posted about my first trip to Gibson’s Donuts. It was an awakening of sorts to what donuts could be, and a flavour experience of epic proportions. I managed to sample three donuts from two lists. Unfortunately, I was unable to taste the last donut from Gibson’s left on the list. Until now…

#15 on 100+ Things to Eat in Memphis – Red Velvet Donut from Gibson’s Donuts

This story takes place on February 2nd, 2013.

It was a Saturday morning. The weekend was finally here. Time to kick back, relax, and take it easy… Oh wait, no, things to do! Heading to Target? Close to Gibson’s? Early enough to beat the rush for Red Velvet Donuts?!

The stars had aligned, and unlike December 21st, 2012, this was set to be an apocalypse of awesomeness. See, since heading to Gibson’s donuts, I’ve become mildly obsessed. The Maple Bacon donut, what should rightly be an abomination to the senses, has infected my mind with salty, sweet and smokey memories. I loved ALL the donuts I’ve tried, but that one… it was special. And having that prior trio and NOT having a Red Velvet? It was too much to bear.

We pulled up at Gibson’s around 10.30am and it was PACKED. The line wasn’t out the door, but it would have made the patrons inside more comfortable if it had been. I was worried we were too late and scanned the display… SUCCESS! They had a good amount left. I pondered snapping a photo of the line at Gibson’s but decided against it… people wanted donuts, not to be in photos.

While snaking through the line, my wife decided she wanted an Apple Fritter as well (she had eyed them up during our previous trip), and I decided to relive my private moments with the Maple Bacon donut. With those three donuts, the order came out to just over $3. I still can’t believe how cheap these donuts are! We split them all, but I only took photos of the Red Velvet for my records.

Firstly, the Red Velvet donut itself is like a well-made red velvet cake. Prior to the Buttermilk Drop, I had had no experience with cake batter donuts, but it seems like it is characteristic to have a slightly-crispy outershell… which I just LOVE. This donut, in contrast with the buttermilk drop, was surprisingly moist! Red velvet cake isn’t noted for its intense flavour, and its donut cousin follows in this tradition, but the frosting (I hesitate to call it a glaze, it was so thick!) more than makes up for it! And the texture… oh my goodness, I think that donut had the best mouthfeel out of all the donuts I’ve ever had.

I’m hesitant to do this, but, as it is the first multi-item store that I’ve “knocked off” (to quote Sir Edmund Hilary), I thought I should rank them. This is just according to my personal preference:

1. Maple Bacon Donut
2. Red Velvet Donut
3. New Orleans Buttermilk Drop
4. Blueberry Donut

I know that before I go back to New Zealand, I’m going to be eating another Maple Bacon Donut. If I could take them on the plane with me, I would!

Truly, if you find yourself in Memphis, Gibson’s is a must-visit. Take a trip to 760 Mt Moriah Rd and order a Red Velvet donut. You won’t be sorry.