Buckeye Donuts

About Buckeye Donuts:

Buckeye Donuts is more than just a bakery; it is a Columbus institution. For over 50 years, this family-owned staple has been the “gold standard” for handmade donuts and coffee in Central Ohio. Known for their “open always, closed never” philosophy at their original roots, the business is built on a foundation of hard work and time-honored recipes.

Operating out of their stall at 59 Spruce Street—conveniently located across from Fox’s Bagel + Deli—Buckeye Donuts brings a classic, “no-frills-just-perfection” energy to the market. Every donut is handmade with the same care and traditional methods established decades ago, ensuring that whether you’re a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, you’re getting a authentic taste of Columbus history.

How did the idea come about?

While Buckeye Donuts has been a High Street landmark since the late sixties, the expansion into the North Market Downtown was a match made in “foodie” heaven. In 2023, North Market Executive Director Rick Harrison Wolfe realized the historic market was missing a dedicated donut spot.

Rick knew the market needed a brand that was not only iconic but also shared the market’s commitment to community and quality. Buckeye Donuts, having been a neighborhood anchor for over half a century, fit the bill perfectly. When the opportunity arose, owners Lou and Stacy Sauter saw it as the natural next step to bring their family’s legacy from South High Street directly to the bustling downtown audience.

What does being a part of the North Market mean to you and the business?

For Lou and Stacy, joining the North Market is about connection. Being situated so close to the Greater Columbus Convention Center allows them the unique privilege of introducing “Columbus’s donut” to travelers from across the entire country and reach a broader audience and build genuine relationships with our fellow merchants and daily customers.

The Sauters love the vibrant variety of people the market attracts—from the “regulars” who stop by every morning to the tourists discovering their first Apple Fritter. For Buckeye Donuts, the North Market isn’t just a location; it’s a platform to showcase the grit and sweetness of Columbus small business.

The Story of Buckeye Donuts and Lou Sauter:

The story of Buckeye Donuts is a generational journey. Lou Sauter is a second-generation owner, following in the footsteps of his father, Gil Sauter, who co-founded the original business partnership in 1969. Lou grew up in the world of flour and sugar, eventually opening the South High Street location with his father in 1984.

Today, Lou and his wife Stacy carry that torch forward. Under Lou’s leadership, the business has maintained its “continuous baking” culture. Because the family operates with a 24/7 mindset at their South High hub, the racks at the North Market are constantly replenished with fresh varieties throughout the day. This dedication to freshness is a hallmark of the Sauter family’s operational style—maintaining the classic recipes and “handshake” service that Gil established over 50 years ago.

Phone:

614-456-7004

Merchant's operating hours:

Sunday & Monday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.