Top Spots for Paczkis in Western New York

From bakeries to grocery stores, here are the best places to find the Polish donuts this Fat Tuesday

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With Fat Tuesday and the start of Lent just around the corner, Western New Yorkers are gearing up to indulge in the traditional Polish pastry known as paczkis. These jelly-filled donuts are a beloved treat in the region, and locals have no shortage of options when it comes to finding the best ones. The article highlights several top spots, from longtime bakeries to grocery store chains, that are known for their delicious paczkis.

Why it matters

Paczkis are an integral part of the Fat Tuesday and Lenten traditions in Western New York's Polish-American communities. The annual paczki-buying frenzy is a cherished ritual that brings people together and supports local businesses, making it an important cultural event in the region.

The details

Paczkis, pronounced "poonch-key," are Polish donuts that are typically filled with fruit jams or other sweet fillings. They became a way for Polish people to use up sugar, butter, and other rich ingredients before the start of the Lenten season. Today, paczkis are enjoyed by people of all backgrounds as a decadent pre-Lent treat. The article highlights several top spots to find paczkis in Western New York, including longtime local bakeries like Paula's Donuts and Eileen's Bakery, as well as grocery store chains like Tops Markets.

  • Today, February 17, 2026, is Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent.
  • For decades, Western New Yorkers have celebrated Fat Tuesday by indulging in paczkis.

The players

Paula's Donuts

A local donut shop with three locations in Western New York that is known for its delicious paczkis.

Eileen's Bakery

A longtime bakery in West Seneca, New York that has been selling paczkis for over 40 years.

Broadway Market

A historic market in Buffalo, New York that offers a wide selection of paczkis and other Easter and Dyngus Day treats.

Tops Markets

A regional grocery store chain with locations throughout Western New York that sells paczkis.

Donut Kraze

A donut shop with two locations in Western New York that offers paczkis in addition to its regular donut selection.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The best part of living in Western New York is that there are PLENTY of places to get amazing tasting paczkis.”

— Dave Fields, Author (wyrk.com)

What’s next

With Fat Tuesday falling on February 17, 2026, Western New Yorkers will need to act fast to get their hands on the best paczkis in the region before the start of Lent.

The takeaway

Paczkis are a beloved tradition in Western New York, and the annual pre-Lenten indulgence is an important cultural event that brings the community together and supports local businesses. Whether you prefer them from a longtime bakery or a convenient grocery store, there are plenty of delicious options to satisfy your paczki cravings this Fat Tuesday.