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Looking to eat some fastnachts on Fat Tuesday?
In Christian tradition, the day before Lent begins — alternately known as Shrove Tuesday or Mardi Gras — is a day of indulgence prior to the start of the solemn, disciplined season that leads up to Easter.
Across many cultures, donuts are a popular way to indulge. The pre-Lent treats are variously referred to as paczki, malasadas, beignets, and fastnachts, the German version that’s popular across Pennsylvania Dutch country.
Family-owned Haegele’s Bakery in Northeast Philly has been selling the heavily yeasted, potato-flour based donuts for decades, but won’t have any this year since two of the family members are recovering from surgery and an injury. (They plan to be back at it in 2023.)
Luckily, Philly’s still got a few fooderies where you can get your Fat Tuesday fastnacht fix. Here’s where you can find the sweet treats in the city this year.
Beiler’s Doughnuts (Center City)
Where: Reading Terminal Market, 51 N 12th St.
When: Tuesday only, though Beiler’s is accepting pre-orders
Shop hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Pricing: $1.60 for one, $8.50 for a half dozen, $16.25 for a dozen
Brauhaus Schmitz (South Street)
Where: 718 South St.
When: Sales started over the weekend, but there should be plenty of fastnachts through Tuesday
Restaurant hours: 4 p.m. to midnight
Pricing: Three cinnamon sugar fastnachts for $4, or three filled fastnachts for $6
Bredenbeck’s Bakery (Chestnut Hill)
Where: 8126 Germantown Ave.
When: Tuesday
Shop hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Pricing: $1.95 for one, $19.95 for a dozen
Holmesburg Bakery (Holmesburg)
Where: 7933 Frankford Ave.
When: Pre-orders closed on Friday, but the shop will be stocked for walk-ins
Shop hours: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Pricing: $9.99 for a half dozen, $16.99 for a dozen
Stock’s Bakery (Port Richmond)
Where: 2614 E Lehigh Ave.
When: Tuesday only
Shop hours: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Pricing: $0.90 for one, $5 for half a dozen, $10 for a dozen
