When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Stan's Donuts & Coffee
Why Stan's Donuts & Coffee is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Stan's Donuts & Coffee offers a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere that makes it a fantastic place to meet up with friends. Founded in 2014 by Rich Labriola in partnership with Stan Berman, founder of the iconic Los Angeles Stan’s Donuts, the Chicago locations have cultivated a devoted community of donut lovers. The shop features an extensive lineup of freshly made, from-scratch donuts, including standout favorites like their signature Chocolate Lightning and the LeStan, a pastry cream-filled croissant donut that has become a must-try. Their coffee, roasted locally, complements the sweet treats perfectly, offering espresso, house blends, and decaf options delivered with rich flavors. Beyond just donuts, Stan’s offers a tasty breakfast program and a cozy environment characterized by good vibes and whimsical touches. They also provide a coffee subscription service and ship their products nationwide, making their delightful offerings accessible beyond Chicago. This combination of quality ingredients, creative donut varieties, and a friendly atmosphere ensures a memorable social experience whether you stop by for breakfast, a coffee break, or a casual meet-up with friends.
Here's what people think of Stan's Donuts & Coffee
As of recent, Stan's Donuts & Coffee holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2416 reviews.
With a high overall rating of 4.4 from over 2,400 reviews, customers widely appreciate Stan's Donuts & Coffee for its quality offerings and inviting atmosphere. Positive reviews commonly praise the freshness and variety of the donuts, highlighting the Croissant Donuts and unique flavors such as Chocolate Lightning and lemon-based varieties. Many reviewers mention the well-crafted coffee that pairs perfectly with the baked goods. Customers also note the welcoming and fun ambiance, which is ideal for casual gatherings, and compliment the friendly service. Some even travel specifically to experience Stan’s or include it early in their visit due to its stellar reputation. On the negative side, some patrons find the donuts a bit too sweet, with excessive glaze or sugar in certain cases, and others mention that prices are on the higher side, although many justify the cost given the quality. A few reviewers felt that some donut flavors did not have a strong enough flavor impact, such as the Lemon Pistachio. Additionally, popular items can occasionally sell out, leading to wait times during busy periods. Overall, the feedback reflects a strong appreciation for the quality and creativity of Stan's Donuts & Coffee, with minor critiques primarily focused on sweetness levels and occasional availability challenges. This balance underscores the business’s success in creating an enjoyable and flavorful experience for donut and coffee aficionados alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Adam Cook
Fancy donuts in the heart of Chicago's attractions. The shop has a good selection of donuts to pick from as well as coffee drinks. It's not big, so it could get crowded at times. They have packaged coffee for those looking to take take some taste of Chicago home with you. Pop in for a sweet pick me up on your exploration of the river area and parks. The staff is also friendly and great with kids.
Criselda Sanchez
I recently visited Stan’s Donuts on Michigan, and I must say, their donuts are absolutely delightful! They strike the perfect balance between sweetness and flavor, making each bite a treat. Moreover, the staff was exceptionally courteous. One team member even surprised me by wishing me a happy Mother’s Day. I had been having a rough start to my day, but her genuine kindness truly lifted my spirits. I left with a smile, and I can't recommend this place enough for both their delicious donuts and their warm service.
rajkk77 (rajkk77)
So much variety! The donuts were fluffy, fresh, and absolutely delicious. There’s plenty of space to sit and enjoy your treat inside, which makes it a great spot to relax. Highly recommend if you’re craving something sweet or just want a cozy place for coffee and a snack!
Simon Eats Too Much
Delicious gourmet donuts inside of Washington Hall, down the street from Cloud Gate. So it’s a great idea to stop by Washington Hall, eat at one of the restaurants inside, use the restrooms, get dessert at Stan’s Donuts, then head over. This donut shop has very friendly staff and a clear menu serving Lattes, Teas, Espresso/Coffee, Matcha, protein shakes, breakfast sandwiches/burritos, and of course great desserts. It’s really a one-stop shop for breakfast/lunch and sweets. I highly recommend the Double Chocolate Old Fashion donut. Of course, this is Washington Hall and I don’t believe there’s dedicated parking, so it’s def best to park somewhere else and just walk here. Most places in Chicago are that way anyway (I’m just speaking from a tourist POV)
Toni Thompson
This is more than donuts and coffee. A friendly employee guided me thru the 2 gluten less donuts today and I wrestled until I opted for chocolate glazed over blueberry glazed. Great choice even though I passed over a few vegan optics. The chocolate glazed paired well with my mango dragon fruit refresher tea, which I chose over a chocolate lightning cold brew and a frozen mango matcha lemonade. They also offer unique Stanwiches with scrambled eggs, cheese and breakfast protein inc plant based protein on a pretzel bun. There's something for everyone here, plain coffee, tea, donut to exotic creations to vegan to gluten less Accessible entry with medium weight door. Accessible order line and pickup line. The displays make for higher counter so you can see it all Great service. Great creative options Menus for beverages are dark with white letters and posted on wall for readability. Drink menus are white with dark letters
How to reach Stan's Donuts & Coffee
None
Website: None
Why Stan's Donuts & Coffee may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Stan's Donuts & Coffee with your friends?
Stan's Donuts & Coffee offers an inviting and vibrant atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends or family. With a solid 4.4-star rating from over 2,400 reviews, it is clear this isn’t just any donut spot—it’s a community favorite that combines the allure of freshly made donuts with exceptional locally roasted coffee. What truly makes Stan’s stand out as a meetup destination is its blend of quality, variety, and ambience. Their donuts are freshly crafted from scratch daily using premium ingredients like fresh butter, eggs, and vanilla, creating an irresistible temptation for any sweet tooth. Beyond just the food, the environment fosters comfortable camaraderie—whether you’re catching up over a leisurely coffee or celebrating a special occasion with a dozen of their signature treats. The friendly staff and welcoming vibes contribute to a relaxed, casual space where groups can unwind, chat, and enjoy great flavors together. In addition, multiple locations around Chicago make Stan’s an accessible choice for locals and visitors alike, enhancing its appeal as a go-to social hub. For those who appreciate a blend of classic comfort food with community spirit, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee is the ultimate spot to rally your friends.
What kind of activities can you do at Stan’s Donuts & Coffee?
Stan’s offers more than just mouth-watering donuts and quality coffee; it encourages socializing and creating memorable experiences. Firstly, the main activity revolves around sampling a wide variety of donuts—from classics like Boston cream and glazed to innovative flavors like pistachio and strawberry glazed donuts. This variety makes it fun for groups to share and recommend their favorites, turning a simple snack into a collective tasting adventure. Besides enjoying the food, Stan’s provides a cozy café environment where friends can linger for hours, engaging in long conversations or casual catch-ups in a relaxed and friendly setting. You can also host small informal meetings or celebrations, as their space is conducive to group gatherings, with enough seating to comfortably accommodate several people. The coffee is another reason to stay—a locally roasted selection that pairs perfectly with the donuts, allowing guests to savor espresso, lattes, or drip coffee while chatting. For those wanting a more laid-back experience, Stan’s offers takeout and even nationwide shipping of their donuts, allowing groups to extend the experience beyond their visit. The combination of delicious treats, great coffee, and a welcoming ambiance makes Stan’s an ideal venue for social bonding and shared enjoyment.
Why is Stan’s Donuts & Coffee perfect for group meetups?
Stan’s Donuts & Coffee excels as a meetup spot through its welcoming atmosphere and its commitment to quality. Hosting a group here means enjoying a space designed to accommodate multiple guests while maintaining the intimate and warm essence of a local café. The staff's friendly and efficient service ensures groups can quickly get their orders and settle in comfortably without feeling rushed or cramped. Moreover, the extensive donut and coffee menu caters to diverse tastes and preferences—whether your group includes gluten-free eaters, coffee lovers, or classic donut fans, there is something for everyone. The portions are generous, with donuts large enough to share, further encouraging communal eating and interaction. The café's downtown and neighborhood locations in Chicago are easily accessible by public transport or on foot, making it convenient for groups to meet without stress. Additionally, the store’s extended hours, including weekends, give groups flexibility to gather at varied times, from early breakfasts to late afternoon meetups. In sum, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee combines delicious food, friendly service, a comfortable environment, and logistical convenience, crafting an unparalleled venue for friends and family to come together.
How does Stan’s cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences?
Stan’s Donuts & Coffee is inclusive to diverse tastes, offering an impressive range beyond traditional donuts. Their menu includes gluten-free options that have garnered praise for being soft, flavorful, and comparable to regular donuts, which means guests with gluten sensitivities or preferences won’t feel left out. The donut selection itself ranges from popular classics like glazed and chocolate-coated to unique seasonal flavors that keep the offerings fresh and exciting, encouraging repeat visits and group discussions about the latest creations. For coffee aficionados, Stan’s serves carefully brewed espresso and drip coffee made with locally roasted beans, catering to a variety of flavor preferences and strength levels. Their coffee subscription program also allows customers to enjoy premium blends at home, which makes it easy for groups to extend their Stan’s experience beyond the café. By offering both indulgent treats and quality beverages in different variations, the shop accommodates all kinds of cravings and dietary needs, enhancing its appeal as a gathering spot for diverse groups.
What kind of events or special occasions can Stan’s Donuts & Coffee host?
Stan’s Donuts & Coffee is not only a great place for casual meetups but also an excellent venue for celebrating special occasions with friends and family. Due to its warm, welcoming atmosphere and modular seating, it can comfortably support birthday gatherings, brunch dates, or small celebratory events. The bakery’s wide variety of donuts can serve as the centerpiece for any occasion, replacing traditional cakes or snacks with something more playful and universally loved. Customers can order a baker’s dozen or customize assortments to suit the tastes of their group, ensuring everyone enjoys a delightful treat. For those wanting to add a branded touch or a bit of fun, Stan’s seasonal and limited-edition donuts spark excitement and conversation, making celebrations feel fresh and special every time. The café’s friendly staff are accustomed to accommodating groups and can help facilitate smooth experiences by taking advance orders or providing recommendations. This positional versatility—from a casual hangout to a vibrant spot for festivities—cements Stan’s place as a reliable host for memorable social gatherings.
How does Stan’s Donuts & Coffee provide value beyond the local visit?
Beyond the physical café experience, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee offers value and community connection through their innovative services. One such service is their nationwide shipping program, which allows donut lovers to enjoy their favorite treats from anywhere in the country. This is perfect for groups who want to share the Stan’s experience with friends and family who can’t join in person, extending the joy of their visit far beyond Chicago. The coffee subscription is another thoughtful feature, delivering fresh locally roasted coffee right to customers’ doors, so the connection to Stan’s quality doesn’t have to end after you leave the shop. These services show Stan’s commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience, making it easier to maintain friendships and gatherings through shared tastes and traditions. It also builds a broader community of fans and friends united by their love for Stan’s signature donuts and coffees. Whether in-store or at home, Stan’s offers enduring value for social connections through exceptional food and drink.
Why do Stan’s Donuts & Coffee’s ingredients and preparation standards matter for meetups?
One critical factor that elevates Stan’s Donuts & Coffee as a group meeting spot is their unwavering dedication to quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. The donuts are made-from-scratch daily using premium components such as fresh butter, eggs, and pure vanilla, ensuring each bite tastes rich, fresh, and flavorful. This quality commitment means that groups can rely on consistently delicious food that enhances the pleasure of socializing together. High-quality coffee sourced from local roasters complements the food perfectly, fostering a sensory experience that goes beyond the usual café fare. For groups, this translates to an inviting ritual: enjoying handcrafted donuts and carefully brewed coffee encourages felt moments of warmth and satisfaction. The ambiance of a well-run, high-quality establishment also adds credibility and pride to the gathering, making your meetup feel like a deliberate, special event. These standards make Stan’s not just a stop for snacks, but a meaningful venue for connection and enjoyment.
How do the locations and hours of Stan’s Donuts & Coffee accommodate group meetups?
Stan’s Donuts & Coffee has multiple locations within Chicago that help facilitate meetups by offering convenient access and ample availability. For example, the downtown Michigan Avenue location and the Lake View East spot on Clark Street provide diverse options depending on where your group is based or prefers to gather. This flexibility is ideal for accommodating different schedules and travel preferences. The stores generally maintain generous hours, some opening as early as 6 or 7 AM and closing as late as 9 PM, which supports a wide range of meetup times—from early breakfast chats to evening treat runs. Weekend hours are particularly favorable for groups who prefer to meet when everyone is free from weekday commitments. The combination of neighborhood charm and central positioning allows Stan’s to serve as a flexible, friendly nucleus where groups can meet without the hassle of traffic or parking woes. The accessibility and thoughtful hours make it simple to plan spontaneous or scheduled social gatherings.
Stan’s Donuts & Coffee is a standout destination where quality, community, and conviviality come together to create the perfect environment for social gatherings. Whether you are seeking a casual coffee catch-up, a fun tasting adventure, or a cozy venue for your next celebration, Stan’s offers an unmatched experience that makes every meetup memorable.