When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts
Why Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts is a cherished establishment known for its fresh, handmade doughnuts and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent place to gather with friends. Located in the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles, this family-operated business prides itself on crafting a variety of doughnuts that appeal to all ages, including whimsical specialty shapes like dinosaurs and kitties which are particularly popular among children. The venue offers a warm and casual setting with ample interior seating, enhancing its appeal as a convivial spot for meetups throughout the day. The shop is famed for its cinnamon roll and a broad assortment of coffee and premium teas, complementing the doughnut experience perfectly. Its extended hours, operating from morning through evening, accommodate both early risers and those seeking a late-day treat. The friendly service and the bakery’s community-centered approach make it more than just a place to grab a snack; it’s a local institution where people often feel at home. Regular patrons appreciate the consistency in quality and the shop’s ability to blend tradition with a bit of playful novelty in their offerings, cementing Bob's as a standout destination for casual socializing and indulgent sweet cravings alike.
Here's what people think of Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts
As of recent, Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts holds a 4.3-star rating based on 311 reviews.
Reviews of Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts reveal a generally positive reception, with a strong appreciation for the freshness and variety of the doughnuts offered. Many users praised the shop for its classic and novelty doughnut flavors, as well as its inviting environment that suits family outings and casual gatherings with friends. Positive reviews often highlight the quality of the doughnuts — soft, fresh, and flavorful — alongside a friendly and community-oriented staff that enhances the customer experience. Additionally, the specialty doughnuts and cinnamon rolls receive frequent commendations, positioning Bob’s as a favorite destination for doughnut lovers and families alike. On the downside, some negative feedback surfaces around the coffee quality, with a few patrons expressing dissatisfaction with their coffee selections, desiring a better match to the excellent doughnut offerings. Another minor critique highlighted the cash-only payment policy, which some customers found inconvenient. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains favorable, with the majority of reviews affirming Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts as a worthy spot to enjoy a sweet treat and a warm atmosphere. The consistent high rating and enduring popularity point to Bob's ability to maintain a beloved community bakery identity amid a competitive market.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nate Cobb
WOW, the donuts at Bob’s Coffee and Donuts are amazing! We brought some friends from out of town to the grove farmers market and stumbled upon this biggest donut I have ever seen in my life, The Texas haha. It was funny sharing the donut, it felt like everyone walking by was staring at us, and some people stopped to ask where we got it from lol. Definitely a fun experience to check out!
mildred barrios
I loved their donuts, the service was excellent, but I can recommend the big glazed donut and the apple donut, it's to die for because it's so delicious. The coffee is excellent to accompany the donuts, don't forget to try them, they're divine.
Hakan Gürsel
Fantastic spot! We had the vanilla-filled, chocolate-coated donuts and the classic glazed—both were incredibly fresh, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent. Service was fast and friendly, and everything hit the spot. A must-visit if you’re craving a quality donut!
Dave W
Cute place with a great selection. Monica is friendly and helpful. Ordered an apple fritter and one old fashioned glazed. Both were good. Not great but worth the price.
Belen Rodriguez
My mom and I live in the Vancouver area in Canada and we CONSTANTLY think about the apple fritters here 😭 we haven't had them in probably 10 years but they will always be the BEST. Nothing compares!!! I was just showing her pics right now saying how we need to go back just to get some apple fritters. We’ve visited a few times but they were sadly sold out :’-( next time though im crossing my fingers and not going home till i get my hands on one.
How to reach Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts
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Why Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts with your friends?
Gathering with friends is all about sharing moments that turn ordinary days into memorable experiences. Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts in Los Angeles offers precisely that kind of atmosphere — a welcoming, casual spot where friends can effortlessly connect over delicious treats. If you're looking for a place that's both a local classic and an inviting social hub, Bob's fits the bill perfectly. Located inside the historic Farmers Market, this coffee and doughnut haven has built a strong reputation for its light, fluffy doughnuts and quality coffee. Its ambiance encourages relaxation and laughter, with outdoor seating that lets groups enjoy fresh air while savoring their food. The combination of affordable prices, friendly service, and exceptional baked goods creates an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable. Whether you're meeting for a morning catch-up, an afternoon break, or a casual weekend get-together, Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts offers a laid-back setting where connections deepen and spirits lift, making it an ideal rallying point for friends.
What activities can you enjoy at Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts for a group meetup?
When planning a group meetup, having versatile activities is key, and Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts delivers on this front with simple yet satisfying offerings that encourage conversation and shared enjoyment. First and foremost, indulging in their fresh assortment of doughnuts is an activity that naturally brings people together. From classic chocolate raised doughnuts to raspberry-filled Bismarcks and New Orleans-style beignets, each bite sparks delight and discussion about favorite flavors. Pairing these treats with freshly brewed coffee, including the popular iced options, gives the gathering a cozy café feel. Beyond eating, the outdoor seating area is perfect for casual hangouts, allowing groups to spread out comfortably and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Farmers Market. If your group enjoys people-watching, this location provides a bustling environment with a diverse crowd and vibrant market stalls nearby. Additionally, arriving early to take advantage of the “early bird special” — a coffee and donut combo around $3 — adds a fun and budget-friendly twist to your visit, making it easier for larger groups to indulge without breaking the bank.
Why is Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts perfect for hosting a meetup with friends or family?
Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts stands out as an excellent venue for meetups because it strikes the right balance between casual comfort and quality offerings. The spacious outdoor seating provides a relaxed environment that can accommodate small to moderately sized groups without feeling cramped. Since the venue is inside the well-known Farmers Market area, it offers a convenient and attractive destination that’s easy for everyone to reach, complete with parking for those who drive. The atmosphere is friendly and informal, ensuring guests feel at ease whether they want to chat for hours or quickly grab a bite and coffee. Moreover, the affordable pricing — with some of the best-value combos in Los Angeles — means the focus can stay on enjoying time with friends or family rather than worrying about the bill. The staff’s welcoming attitude further enhances the experience, making each visit feel personal and appreciated, encouraging repeat meetups over time.
How does the food and drink selection cater to group preferences?
One of the reasons Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts is ideal for groups is its flexible menu that caters to diverse tastes and preferences within any gathering. The doughnuts are celebrated for their light and fluffy texture, available in a variety of flavors like cinnamon sugar, bittersweet chocolate, apple fritters, and jelly-filled options, meaning there’s something to please everyone — from those who enjoy traditional sweets to those looking for slightly more adventurous choices. Their coffee selection complements the doughnuts well, offering both hot and iced variations to accommodate different drink preferences and weather conditions. Many visitors recommend pairing their doughnut with the house coffee or iced coffee for a classic combination that satisfies cravings for both caffeine and sugar. Because the food is meant to be enjoyed on the go or in relaxed sittings, it’s easily shareable, which encourages friendly exchanges of flavors. This variety and versatility allow groups to try multiple items without ordering complicated meals or commitments to sit-down dining, making the experience lighthearted and spontaneous.
What is the atmosphere like at Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts, and why is it suitable for social gatherings?
The atmosphere at Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts is a relaxed and inviting mix of old-school charm and modern casual vibes. The interior is simple and unpretentious, reflecting its identity as a straightforward neighborhood staple rather than a high-end café. This no-frills approach actually adds to the venue's appeal for groups because it minimizes the pressure and formality usually associated with dining out. The outdoor seating area enhances this ambiance by offering plenty of natural light and fresh air, ideal for socializing in a friendly, open environment. Set within the lively Farmers Market, the surroundings are bustling and colorful, adding an energetic backdrop without overwhelming conversation. The staff is known for their friendly and helpful service, which enhances comfort and welcomes regular visitors back time and again. All these elements together create a space where social interactions can flow easily, and groups of friends or family can feel at home.
How does Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts compare to other coffee and doughnut shops for group meetups?
While many coffee shops and doughnut shops cater to individuals or couples, Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts excels as a group-friendly option because of its location, pricing, and community vibe. Compared to large national chains that can sometimes feel sterile or rushed, Bob's offers a cozy, familiar atmosphere anchored in a historic Farmers Market, giving it a unique local character. The doughnuts are freshly made multiple times daily, ensuring quality that outshines many mass-produced alternatives. Pricing is another advantage; special deals like the early bird combo provide budget-friendly choices rarely matched by trendy or upscale spots. Customer reviews consistently emphasize both the taste and value as highlights, along with friendly service and the pleasant outdoor setup. Other local doughnut and coffee places may have more decor or specialty drinks, but Bob's hits the sweet spot for groups seeking tasty treats, casual comfort, and an affordable outing.
What makes the location of Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts ideal for group meetups?
Situated inside the iconic Farmers Market on W. Third Street in Los Angeles, Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts benefits enormously from its central, accessible location—a key factor when coordinating group meetups. The Farmers Market is a well-known, popular destination with ample parking, making it a convenient meeting spot for friends or family coming from different parts of the city. Its vibrant retail and food environment offers more activities should your group want to extend the meetup beyond coffee and doughnuts, such as exploring nearby shops or grabbing additional snacks and meals. The neighborhood vibe surrounding the market is lively and diverse, providing a rich cultural backdrop that enhances the overall experience. Moreover, the market atmosphere makes it easy to keep the meetup spontaneous; groups can arrive early, grab their treats, wander through stalls, and enjoy people-watching without leaving the area. This combination of accessibility, atmosphere, and multitasking potential makes Bob's an excellent anchor point for social gatherings.
What are the customer experiences like when visiting Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts in groups?
Customers often highlight the friendly and attentive service at Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts as a key reason their group visits are enjoyable and hassle-free. The staff is described as welcoming and helpful, which helps large parties feel valued and accommodated despite the shop’s busy, popular status. Many reviews praise the quality and freshness of the doughnuts, which are prepared multiple times per day; this attention to detail ensures that group members receive consistently tasty treats. The outdoor seating allows groups to comfortably spread out and chat, while the casual environment takes the pressure off formal dining etiquette. Visitors also appreciate the reasonable prices, especially when ordering the popular coffee-and-donut combos, which make it easy for the whole group to indulge without stressing about cost. Most importantly, the overall vibe people mention is one of a familiar, community-focused spot where friends and family can catch up easily over shared favorites.
How can Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts accommodate larger groups or special occasions?
While Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts primarily functions as a casual takeout and sit-down spot with outdoor seating, it can still accommodate moderately sized groups with some planning. The outdoor seating area, which is spacious and casual, is perfect for groups who want to linger, talk, and enjoy their treats together. Because the menu consists mainly of doughnuts and coffee, orders are easy to place and serve quickly, preventing long wait times that might otherwise disrupt a group gathering. Although Bob's doesn’t advertise private event spaces or formal party hosting, the friendly staff are known to be accommodating within their capacity, especially during non-peak hours such as early mornings. For special occasions, groups can coordinate with the shop about larger orders or bulk purchases to ensure everyone’s favorites are available. The affordability and quality of the offerings, combined with the relaxed setting, make it ideal for casual celebrations like birthdays, simple reunions, or informal meetups.
What are the unique features of Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts that enhance a meetup experience?
Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts boasts several unique features that elevate the experience of meeting up with friends or family. The longstanding presence within the historic Farmers Market adds an extra layer of local charm and tradition, uncommon among newer or chain coffee shops. Their doughnuts stand out for being freshly made multiple times daily and offering classic flavors that appeal broadly without the confusion of overly complex menus. The "early bird special," which pairs coffee and a donut for an unbeatable price, makes morning meetups particularly attractive and economical. The shop’s strictly cash-only policy adds a quaint, old-school feel that many visitors find endearing. Additionally, the combination of indoor service with pleasant outdoor seating means groups can enjoy the best of both worlds—efficient ordering matched with a calm, convivial space to share conversations and laughs.
What tips should groups consider when planning a visit to Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts?
To make the most of a group visit to Bob's Coffee & Doughnuts, it's advisable to come early, especially if you want to take advantage of the "early bird special" pricing before peak hours. Arriving between 8 and 9:30 a.m. can also help your group secure outdoor seating before it fills up, allowing everyone to sit together comfortably. Since Bob’s prefers cash payments, ensuring everyone has cash on hand will speed up ordering and avoid any inconvenience. Groups should consider placing larger orders all at once to minimize waiting times and to help staff better serve multiple customers efficiently. Finally, because the shop is located in the lively Farmers Market, groups can also plan extra time to explore and enjoy the market’s vibrant atmosphere, turning a simple coffee and doughnut meetup into a fuller social outing with shopping and people-watching.