Holtman’s Donuts isn’t just a sweet haven; it’s a family legacy that spans generations. Founded in 1960, this West Chester establishment is a testament to the Plazarin family’s dedication. Co-owner Katie Plazarin emphasizes the importance of crafting donuts from scratch, offering visitors a delightful view of the baking process. A must-try is their maple bacon donut, a perfect blend of Cincinnati’s pork influence with the sweetness of maple icing and bacon crumbles.

Martins Donut Shop isn’t your average donut stop, either. It’s a vibrant spectacle painted in hot pink, housed in a former service station. Owner Tim Mason, custodian of this unique establishment, notes that glazed twists are their top sellers. While more stick than donut, these twists, rolled in glaze, have become a local favorite, perfect for dunking in coffee or milk. Beyond the flamboyant exterior, Martins Donut Shop captivates with its early morning openings and late-night hours.

Despite its retro appearance, Kelly’s Bakery is a fresh addition to Hamilton, opening its doors in 2015. Owner Diana Ramsey prides herself on a diverse selection, ensuring there’s something for every palate. The apple fritter donut, a seven-inch-wide delight with cinnamon and diced apples, stands out as a customer favorite. Beyond the tempting treats, Kelly’s Bakery is celebrated for its exceptional customer service.

Retirement led Sherry Richardson to set on a new adventure with Mimi’s Donuts & Bakery, also in Hamilton. The warm ambiance, complete with wooden accents and barn doors, welcomes visitors into a dessert haven. Indulge in the Reese’s cup donut, filled with peanut-butter-flavored filling, chocolate icing, and Reese’s peanut butter cups sprinkled on top. Richardson’s transition from law enforcement to donut connoisseur showcases the joy that these delectable treats bring.

Established in 1949, Central Pastry Shop is a living testament to tradition, community, and delicious donuts! Owned by John and Vera Slamka since 1983, this Middletown gem is cherished by three generations of customers. The cinnamon square donut, a glazed yeast donut topped with housemade cinnamon crumbles and powdered sugar, melts in your mouth, offering a delectable experience.

No matter which shop you decide to stop into, there’s no denying that the Ohio Donut Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Who wouldn’t want to support small businesses while indulging themselves with one too many donuts?

In the fiercely competitive realm of restaurant reservations, scoring a sought-after table is akin to mastering a strategic game. With online reservation platforms turning into battlegrounds, diners are having to get creative to outsmart the system. In this intense reservation race, a blend of good timing, personal touch, last-minute maneuvers, and occasional financial investment can be the winning combination, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

The key to winning the reservation game often lies in knowing when to strike. A direct call to the restaurant can tell you the precise moment reservations are released. A success story involves logging into platforms like Resy within minutes of opening, bypassing bots, and securing a prime spot at a new Manhattan restaurant.

Showing up in person can also be a game-changer, especially during off-peak hours. Michael Stillman, CEO of the hospitality group Quality Branded, emphasizes the advantage of spontaneity, reserving room for those who decide to pop in without an online reservation. Early weekdays might just be the golden window to snag a coveted table without the online competition.

Fluctuating plans of diners who book months in advance often lead to last-minute cancellations. Joining waitlists, checking booking sites on the desired day, and leveraging features like Resy’s “Notify” alerts can open doors to unexpected dining experiences.

A direct call or in-person chat with the host might yield favorable results, emphasizing the value of flexibility and spontaneity in navigating the reservation landscape.

For those willing to invest a bit more, there’s always paying for that elusive reservation. Premium credit cards like the Platinum Amex, with its Resy Global Dining Access benefit, offer exclusive reservations and dining perks for a steep annual fee.

While paying for a reservation might seem unconventional, for some, it’s the key to turning an impossible reservation into a reality.