Sublime Doughnuts in Atlanta, GA

The Free Online Dictionary defines "sublime" as: "Characterized by nobility; majestic," or "Of high spiritual, moral, or intellectual worth." For this doughnut shop in Midtown Atlanta, these definitions do apply!

What with all the health crazes and fad diets out there, it seems Americans are afraid to "treat themselves," if even once in awhile. If you are one of these Americans, this pastry shop just may help you change your mind!

Unlike its major competitors (and here I'm thinking of two in particular with misspelled names), Sublime's doughnuts are continually fresh. And although you've likely heard this many times over, no matter what flavor you choose, it's guaranteed to be delectable!

Among Sublime's highly unusual selections are the Caramel Apple Fritter; the Chocolate Wild Berry Fritter; the Red Velvet Fritter; and the Dulce de Leche. Each has a distinctive, exceptional flavor that you certainly won't find at your neighborhood baked goods chain or supermarket. Also recommended is the A-town Cream, so named because of its instantly recognizable shape (and the fact that it's exclusive to ATL).

At present, the owner, Kamal Grant, is one of the few employees laboring in the kitchen, putting in the hours and the ingredients to make Sublime Doughnuts the rare treats that they are. You'll also likely see him up front frequently, greeting customers and expounding on which pastries he personally recommends most. He is a pastry school graduate, specifically of the Culinary Institute of America's Baking and Pastry Arts program, with a serious love for the doughnut. The "indie" feel to his shop is an essential part of what separates it from other doughnut and pastry shops. In fact, you can almost taste the passion that goes into their doughnuts.

Besides having a delicious selection, Sublime Doughnuts is commendable for its comfortable and inviting atmosphere. At many of the tables, you'll find the works of entertaining authors whose intent is to educate you on the history and art of this distinctive dessert. Some of the books are intended for children, while others are clearly aimed at adults. Since it's likely that some or even most of your family will enjoy them, these works of both fiction and nonfiction have definitely found their rightful place in Sublime Doughnuts.

Sublime is also quite notable for its "doughnut art," which is prominently displayed on the wall adjacent to the cashier's counter. In all honesty, most of it has to be seen to be believed. One way you might describe it, however, is "the result of Picasso, Matisse, and Munch after a bakery binge." Once you set foot inside the shop, the metaphor will be much more obvious.

Like any great doughnut shop, of course, Sublime also has excellent coffee. And what's a delicious doughnut without a cup of java on the side?

Sublime's prices, too, are hard to beat. Selections like the Dulce de Leche, Raspberry Filled Heart, and Hot Cross Bun are available for a mere $1.25. If you prefer dark chocolate on your Raspberry Filled Heart, that's an additional 25 cents, but don't most of us have a quarter to spare? Plus, if you order a dozen or more doughnuts, you'll be given a 15% discount!

There are only a couple of stipulations: 1) For requests of over two dozen, or specific flavors, you must give 24 hours notice. 2) The doughnut selection is "subject to change depending on supply and/or mood," according to Grant.

Doughnuts are "food for the soul." If you're going to splurge, you might as well splurge on Sublime. So, all you Atlanta residents, stop by this splendid spot at 535 Tenth Street (near Georgia Tech) the next time you want to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ahem...and don't tell the other doughnut dealers I said so.