Perhaps inspired by my recent reading of Amir Aczel’s ‘The Jesuit and the Skull,’ I decided to embark on a cultural anthropological quest of my own: in search of true old-fashioned donuts. And, tipped off by friends, I recently found some … in Northborough. See the donut to the left above. It’s from Nicky D’s Donuts on Route 20 in Northborough. Notice the glorious cracks and crevices and other non-smooth imperfections. And it’s slightly crunchy to the taste, a texture true donut connoisseurs demand and expect.  Now look at the donut to the right from Dunkin’ – and its perfectly smooth surfaces and perfectly round dimensions. And it’s ridiculously soft to the taste, as if it’s made from Ducan Hines cake mix. It’s no contest: Nicky D’s donuts are far, far superior.

Btw: Nicky D’s also has old-fashioned cruller donuts (see below), which Dunkin’ shamelessly dropped from its menu years ago (and before Dunkin’ dropped ‘Donuts’ from its very name, it should be noted).

Update –– An HB reader emails in: “You’ve become a true Influencer!” … Well, I try. First ice cream. Now donuts. What next? Maybe meatball grinders. Good ones are hard to find.