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 is a beloved neighborhood donut and coffee shop in Chicago, known for its freshly made, made-from-scratch donuts and exceptional locally-roasted coffee. Founded in 2014 as a partnership between Rich Labriola of Labriola Baking Company and Stan Berman of the iconic Los Angeles Stan's Donuts, it offers a welcoming atmosphere with a strong community vibe. Patrons enjoy a wide variety of donut flavors including signature items like the Chocolate Lightning and the LeStan—a pastry cream filled croissant donut that stands out for its unique flavor. Beyond donuts, Stan's also provides a tasty breakfast menu and coffee subscription services, making it a versatile spot to meet friends or enjoy a casual outing. The shop's commitment to quality is evident in its use of fresh butter, eggs, vanilla, and other high-quality ingredients, ensuring delicious and high-standard treats for all visitors. Whether it's for a quick coffee, a leisurely breakfast, or a group meet-up enhanced by the convenience of nationwide shipping of their donuts, Stan's Donuts & Coffee offers an appealing experience that combines great food, coffee, and good vibes in the heart of Chicago.
Here's what people think of Stan's Donuts & Coffee
As of recent, Stan's Donuts & Coffee holds a 4.2-star rating based on 237 reviews.
Users generally hold Stan's Donuts & Coffee in high regard, appreciating the freshness, wide selection, and quality of their donuts as well as their excellent coffee. Many customers describe the atmosphere as fun and inviting, with some highlighting the convenience of its location and the friendly service. Positive reviews often note the delicious and varied donut flavors like pistachio lemon and the vanilla dipped options, as well as the well-prepared coffee that perfectly complements the sweet treats. Another particularly praised aspect is the couple of signature items like the LeStan croissant donut that sets them apart. However, some customers mention the relatively high prices as a downside, and a few note that the popularity of the shop can lead to long lines or occasional sellouts, which might be inconvenient during busy times. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall impression from reviews is strongly positive, reflecting a beloved local spot where quality and taste make every visit worthwhile. Enthusiasts of donuts and coffee alike seem to recommend Stan’s as a must-visit when in Chicago, praising both the flavor and the community spirit of the店.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lisa I
I traveled from NYC and had to visit this business. This place is unique. Gives me that 70s vibes. Love the decorations indoors/outdoors. I really love the donuts decor on the ceiling. The staff were friendly, courteous, and helpful .The seating area was clean and very comfortable. The coffee was delicious, and I enjoyed the donut
Athena G M
The service was great! Polite and friendly. I forgot the name of doughnut we all loved. It was a yellow cake doughnut completely dipped in chocolate. It was amazing! Loved the mixers on the wall. A couple tables outside to enjoy doughnuts.
Charlie
Just wanted coffee but the smell was so amazing I had to get donuts as well. The pistachio and lime was amazing and I'm not a big donut fan either. It's a bit pricey but well worth it. Stan's is the man when it comes to donuts!
Rachel Weddle
Very cute bakery, quick service, iced coffee and gluten free chocolate donuts were delicious.
Rebekah Ozuna
We had delicious donuts and great service. The coffee was strong and hot. They had plenty of vegan options and some creative seasonal items too. We loved it.
How to reach Stan's Donuts & Coffee
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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? Because this is a place that perfectly blends delicious indulgence, cozy ambiance, and a welcoming vibe, making it the ultimate spot for any group gathering. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back morning meet-up over coffee and fresh donuts or a casual afternoon hangout, Stan’s offers an inviting escape from the ordinary. The wide selection of delectable, freshly made donuts caters to diverse tastes, including classics and inventive flavors, ensuring everyone in your group finds something to savor. Plus, their coffee, brewed from locally roasted beans, complements each donut to perfection, enhancing the shared experience of enjoying good food together. The environment is casual and friendly, making it easy for friends or family to relax and catch up. With multiple locations across Chicago, including popular neighborhoods like the Magnificent Mile and Lake View East, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee is both accessible and reliable for bringing people together. Hosting a meetup here means you get great food, great drinks, and, most importantly, great company in a space built for connection.
What activities can you enjoy at Stan’s Donuts & Coffee? Primarily, it is a haven for food lovers who want to indulge in treats and conversation. The core attraction is, of course, their donuts — from classic glazed to adventurous seasonal varieties, they offer a wide-ranging menu that invites tasting and sharing. Some group members might enjoy sampling a Boston cream donut while others try specialty items like pistachio-glazed or gluten-free options, allowing everyone to explore flavors together. Coffee aficionados will appreciate the variety of espresso-based drinks made from quality beans, perfect for sipping while engaging in lively chatter or quiet reflection. The venue’s casual seating encourages lingering, which is ideal for groups who want to chat or work on something together. Some locations provide the option for takeout as well, so the fun can continue elsewhere if preferred. For families, the availability of highchairs and a warm atmosphere ensures comfort, making it an excellent choice for meetups across all ages.
Why is Stan’s Donuts & Coffee perfect for a group meetup? The atmosphere strikes a balance between energetic and relaxed, creating a space that accommodates different social moods — whether it’s a boisterous gathering or a tranquil coffee break. The thoughtful interior design fosters a sense of community; tables are arranged to facilitate conversation, and the overall vibe is friendly without being overwhelming. Waiting times for food and drink are typically short, which respects your group’s time and keeps gatherings flowing smoothly. Additionally, their operating hours are generous — many locations open early and close late — giving you flexibility in planning meetups at times that suit your whole group. Another major plus is their commitment to quality ingredients, so standing by the food and drink offerings is easy and makes recommending the place to others a pleasure. Whether it’s a casual weekend get-together or a midweek coffee date, Stan’s offers a dependable setting that consistently delivers satisfaction.
What makes the donut selection at Stan’s special for meetups? Stan’s Donuts & Coffee shines in its dedication to fresh, made-from-scratch donuts using premium ingredients like fresh butter, eggs, and vanilla. The variety available allows groups to explore a mini tasting experience together, with flavors ranging from tried-and-true favorites to innovative specials that keep the menu exciting. For those with dietary restrictions, Stan’s offers gluten-free options that don’t compromise on flavor or texture, meaning nobody in your group needs to feel left out. Sharing a baker’s dozen or a custom assortment encourages camaraderie and adds a fun, interactive element to your meetup, as everyone can sample and discuss their favorites. This kind of food sharing naturally enhances conversation and connection, turning a simple meal into an enjoyable collective experience.
How does the coffee at Stan’s support a memorable group experience? While many come to Stan’s primarily for the donuts, the coffee also plays a crucial role in the meetup dynamic. Stan’s uses locally roasted beans, delivering fresh and flavorful coffee that pairs well with their baked goods. Their espresso drinks, from lattes to cappuccinos, are made to order and provide a comforting ritual for visitors. For groups that include coffee lovers and casual sippers alike, the menu offers a range of options, including decaf and specialty blends, ensuring everyone can find their ideal cup. The coffee serves as both a social lubricant and a quiet companion to conversation, making it an integral piece of the gathering. Even those who might not be big coffee drinkers often find the ambiance enriched by the aroma and culture around coffee, which makes each meetup feel a bit more special.
What amenities and services enhance the Stan’s Donuts & Coffee group meetup experience? Beyond the food and drink, Stan’s offers conveniences that make organizing meetups more straightforward. Several locations provide ample seating with options suitable for small groups or larger parties. Some branches have highchairs available, accommodating families with young children. Street parking options and central locations, including the Magnificent Mile and Lake View East, add to the ease of access for diverse groups. Stan’s also offers takeout services if your group prefers to gather elsewhere, and a nationwide coffee subscription service lets fans continue their Stan’s experience outside the café. The friendly, knowledgeable staff create a welcoming environment that invites guests to relax and enjoy their time together without feeling rushed. All these factors combine to make your gathering smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.
How can Stan’s Donuts & Coffee host your next special occasion or casual meetup? Whether it's a birthday celebration, casual weekend brunch with friends, or an informal business meetup, Stan’s has the flexibility to cater to your needs. The space is informal yet lively enough to keep energy positive and fun, and the quality of the food and drink ensures everyone leaves satisfied. For larger groups, pre-ordering donuts or coffee to share helps streamline the visit. Their catered options and custom donut orders can add a personalized touch to your event. Stan’s commitment to freshness and flavor means your meetup will be centered on great tasting food that sparks conversation and enjoyment. Meeting here transforms an ordinary group gathering into a delightful experience that combines culinary pleasure with social warmth.
What makes Stan’s Donuts & Coffee stand out in Chicago’s food scene for group gatherings? Chicago is renowned for its vibrant food culture, and Stan’s Donuts & Coffee stands out by marrying classic donut traditions with modern, locally inspired flavors and excellent coffee. Their story is rooted in quality and community connection, having been founded as a partnership between Chicago bakers and L.A. donut pioneers. This rich background infuses the brand with authenticity and innovation, qualities that translate into the experience they provide. Unlike many coffee shops or fast-food chains, Stan’s prioritizes the craft and the community, creating a place where friends and families naturally want to congregate. Their consistently high ratings and the loyal following of donut lovers testify to a business that excels at bringing people together around shared tastes and moments.
Why is the location of Stan’s Donuts & Coffee convenient for meetups? With several locations scattered around Chicago neighborhoods like the Magnificent Mile and Lake View East, Stan’s offers easy accessibility by public transport, foot, or car. This widespread presence means groups from various parts of the city can find a convenient spot to meet. The operating hours, typically stretching from early morning to late evening, provide ample options for scheduling meetups around busy lives. Central locations are often near other amenities and attractions, allowing your meetup to easily extend into a day of exploration or errands. This convenience enhances the likelihood that all your friends or family members can attend without hassle, making your gathering stress-free from start to finish.
What additional experiences can groups enjoy beyond food and drink? While Stan’s Donuts & Coffee focuses on offering excellent culinary delights, the social experience it fosters is its most valued aspect for group meetups. The inviting ambiance encourages conversation, laughter, and quality time. Some locations have community boards or occasional events that local groups can tap into, adding a layer of interaction beyond just eating and drinking. The environment is also conducive to working or studying together — a benefit for groups wanting to combine productivity with enjoyment. Simply put, Stan’s offers a comfortable "third place" outside home and work, where community connections strengthen through shared moments over donuts and coffee.
In summary, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee is an outstanding venue for hosting meetups with friends or family due to its delicious offerings, friendly atmosphere, convenient locations, and thoughtful amenities. Whether indulging in diverse donuts, savoring quality coffee, or simply enjoying the company in a warm and welcoming space, groups find genuine value and enjoyment here. It is an ideal backdrop for meaningful gatherings, casual catch-ups, and creating memories centered on great food and shared experiences.