Good morning, loyal derby fans. We are ready to announce the news you’ve all been waiting for. First, however, let’s offer congratulations to bracket winner Kim Payne! She showed a lot of pastry prescience, even correctly guessing the purveyor that would go on to take the championship. Very well done on that, Kim. You will receive a $50 gift certificate to—are you ready for this?—Mac’s Donuts! That’s right, drawing a record number of votes, Mac’s took the lead in the final bout of the derby, pulling ahead of Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken to win the illustrious title of Best Doughnuts in Washington. Let’s take a moment to recognize Astro’s amazing efforts.
As for Mac’s, well—wow. The little market stand selling fried pastries on a stick went up against some serious contenders throughout our contest. In round one, it beat out the much-pontificated-upon zeppole at Fiola, forging ahead to take on Zeke’s DC Donutz. After a big victory in round two, Mac’s was up against another derby favorite: Cashion’s Eat Place. The fans showed up, and Mac’s left Cashion’s in the proverbial day-old basket. It then beat out the buttermilk beignets at Bayou Bakery—deep-fried treats that enjoy a fierce following in their own right. Finally, it was time for the championship round. Really, it was anyone’s game—Astro fans had been bringing it all derby long in a big way. In the end, however, the farmers market favorite proved unstoppable. We offer hearty congratulations to John McIntyre and team for this hard-won win.
Thanks to everyone who played along with this year’s bracket. If you have suggestions for what food we should take on next, we’d love to hear them. Leave a note in the comments or e-mail bestbitesblog@washingtonian.com.
Now, who wants a doughnut?
