When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
The Donut Man
Why The Donut Man is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Donut Man is an iconic donut shop known for its large, deliciously crafted donuts that make it a fantastic place to meet up with friends or family. Located in Glendora and with a presence in Los Angeles at Grand Central Market, it is celebrated for its unique and generous offerings such as the famous Tiger Tail, an impressive donut twisted with chocolate, and their fresh fruit-filled delights including the much-loved strawberry and peach donuts. This establishment stands out not only for the size and quality of its donuts but also for the freshness and preparation visible to customers, particularly at the open kitchen setting in the Grand Central Market location. Visitors appreciate the vibrant, casual atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy a special treat that can elevate any social outing. The Donut Man’s great variety ensures everyone can find something to enjoy, from classic glazed to fruit-filled options, making it an excellent spot for gatherings where sharing these signature donuts can create memorable experiences. Whether indulging in their maple bar or sampling the seasonal fruit specialties, The Donut Man offers a rewarding culinary adventure that draws both locals and tourists alike.
Here's what people think of The Donut Man
As of recent, The Donut Man holds a 4.5-star rating based on 568 reviews.
Reviews of The Donut Man are largely positive, as evidenced by its high ratings of 4.5 to 4.9 out of 5 stars and hundreds of reviews praising the quality of its donuts. Many reviewers highlight the exceptional taste and freshness of the donuts, especially applauding the Tiger Tail and the fresh strawberry donuts, which receive top scores for flavor and satisfaction. Customers visiting the Grand Central Market location appreciate the open kitchen concept, which allows them to see the donuts being made, enhancing the overall experience. The shop’s welcoming environment and generous portion sizes are also frequently mentioned as highlights that add to its appeal as a meeting place. However, some negative reviews mention inconsistent freshness and occasional disappointments with certain varieties, suggesting that the experience can vary on different visits. A few local reviewers express a preference for other donut shops, indicating that taste is subjective and some may not find The Donut Man meets their expectations every time. Overall, though, the positive reviews greatly outweigh the negatives, with many recommending a visit for those who enjoy artisan-style donuts and unique fruit-filled options. The consensus is that The Donut Man remains a worthwhile destination, especially for fans of fresh fruit donuts and visually impressive, tasty treats.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mohammad AlSaeed
Absolutely worth the hype! The Donut Man is an iconic spot that truly lives up to its reputation. We tried the fresh strawberry donut, and it was a showstopper—juicy, sweet, and bursting with flavor. The chocolate-filled donuts were decadent, and the Tiger Tails had the perfect chew with a satisfying glaze and chocolate twist. Despite the long line, the service was quick and friendly. You can feel the legacy in every bite—handmade goodness since 1972. A must-visit when you're in LA, especially before they sell out
Eltea
I was passing thru the Grand Central Market after grabbing some lunch from another stall when their strawberry donut caught my eye and called to me. That thing is a beauty to look at and tastes delicious with its freshness. They also sell a lot of other mouth watering donuts and baked goods. Its nice to stop here and get a dessert or something sugary along with all the savory and hearty meals you can find in the grand market.
Karl Joseph Martin
I think I made the right choice by buying the fresh strawberry donut for $7. There are a ton of options but this was their most popular I’d say because they pioneered it nonetheless. I mean the donut itself was pretty standard for LA (note that LA has a lot of homegrown donut shops, like A LOT!) but what stood out in this one is the strawberry jam that coats the strawberry, it is not very sweet and not very tangy as well, it is the right balance. And the texture of the jam is perfect too, not very sticky but not loose as well. It’s weird it’s like they perfected that part of the fresh donut. It basically is pretty amazing! So I’d say it’s worth the hype.
Robert Morris
The Donut Man at the Grand Central Market is great. Fast service and donuts were fresh. The market has an awesome atmosphere and lots of places to grab a bite to eat. The French crullers were so good as always.
Asad Choudhry
We went in July and happened upon some of the best donuts ever from here, with fresh peaches and strawberries the season lined up perfectly for both. Also tried this lemon custard donut. They were so good some of the best donuts ever! They have benches outside to enjoy the donuts. Please do yourself a favor try these donuts!!!
How to reach The Donut Man
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Why The Donut Man may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying with your friends at The Donut Man is an irresistible invitation to indulge in some of the best donuts California and Florida have to offer, all while enjoying a warm, welcoming atmosphere that encourages connection and delight. This iconic donut shop is not just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a destination where friendships can be deepened, laughter shared, and memories made over delicious, freshly made treats. Imagine lining up with your group for a taste of legendary strawberry and peach donuts that have earned The Donut Man cult-like devotion. The vibrant variety of donuts, combined with friendly service and a casual setting, make it an ideal spot for gatherings that are relaxed yet special. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, enjoying a casual weekend outing, or just craving a sweet pause for coffee and donuts, The Donut Man’s reputation for freshly baked quality and its inviting vibe create the perfect rallying point to gather your friends or family.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at The Donut Man with a group?
At The Donut Man, the primary activity revolves around indulging in an extraordinary variety of donuts that cater to all tastes. Groups can explore a vast menu of fresh delights, from classic glazed donuts to inventive fruit-filled varieties like strawberry and peach, as well as specialty items like the Bavarian Cream or the tiger tail. Sharing these treats sparks conversation and communal joy, making for a naturally fun and interactive experience. Beyond simply eating, The Donut Man is perfect for taking photos together with its visually appealing and colorful donut array, making memories worth sharing socially. Additionally, the shop’s coffee offerings complement the sweet treats perfectly, encouraging groups to linger, chat, and enjoy a casual breakfast or snack time together. The space itself fosters a vibe where people feel comfortable gathering for conversations or casual meetups throughout the day.
Why is The Donut Man perfect for a group meetup?
The Donut Man stands out as an excellent venue for group meetups due to its combination of high-quality products, warm customer service, and welcoming environment. The friendly and fast service ensures that even larger parties are served efficiently without compromising the quality or freshness of the food. The shop’s layout and ambiance are designed to accommodate groups comfortably, promoting a relaxed, informal setting ideal for catching up or celebrating small occasions. Its long-standing reputation—built by owners Jim and Miyoko Nakano over decades—adds a layer of authenticity and trust, assuring visitors of an experience rooted in quality and community spirit. For friends and families looking for a dose of nostalgia wrapped in modern flavors, this is a venue that naturally appeals as a gathering spot. The extensive menu variety means that everyone in the group can find something to enjoy, which is a major plus for diverse tastes.
What makes The Donut Man’s donuts a unique experience to share?
The Donut Man’s donuts are celebrated not just for their freshness but for their innovative flavors and quality ingredients that turn a simple sweet treat into an event worth sharing with others. Signature donuts like the strawberry and peach varieties have become legendary, drawing visitors from far beyond the local area. These donuts provide a uniquely sweet and fruity taste that contrasts delightfully with the traditional richer flavors, making them perfect for groups to sample and compare. The shape and texture of their creations—often described as “pillows of goodness”—invite sharing and savoring together. Because each donut is freshly made, it elevates the experience from a typical donut run to a special treat that groups can savor and bond over. Sharing such unique and well-crafted donuts makes visiting The Donut Man a social and sensory experience packed with joy.
How does the customer service enhance group visits to The Donut Man?
Customer service at The Donut Man boosts the experience significantly for group visits by being friendly, fast, and attentive. Reviewers consistently note the welcoming approach of the staff and how it sets a positive tone for visits, especially for groups who might need quick service while juggling multiple orders. Despite some challenges reported by former employees about internal management, customer-facing service remains a strong point, helping to maintain a positive atmosphere. For groups, feeling attended to without long waits means more time enjoying food and company rather than standing in line. The staff’s knowledge about the menu helps guide newcomers or groups eager to try the best options, adding a helpful and personal touch to the visit. Ultimately, the approachable service makes group gatherings smoother and more enjoyable.
Is The Donut Man a historic or culturally significant place for meetups?
Yes, The Donut Man is more than just a bakery; it holds cultural and historical significance that adds richness to any meetup. Founded by Jim and Miyoko Nakano decades ago, the business started from humble beginnings and grew into a symbol of quality and community spirit along historic routes such as old Route 66. This legacy infuses the place with a sense of tradition and resilience—qualities that add to the charm for visitors looking for authentic, local experiences. The couple’s inspiring story, from challenges during World War II to becoming renowned donut artisans, lends a backstory that heightens appreciation and makes meetups at the shop feel meaningful. For friends and families interested in history and community, gathering at The Donut Man offers a shared connection to a small but important piece of California and Florida’s culinary landscape.
How accessible and convenient is The Donut Man for group meetups?
The Donut Man’s locations in both California and Florida, including the Winter Haven and Los Angeles areas, make it accessible to a wide range of people. Groups benefit from convenient parking and proximity to local landmarks, making it easy to include the donut shop in a full day of social activities or outings. The spot's popularity means it is well-known and easy to find, reducing coordination stress for meetups. Operating hours that include mornings and weekends accommodate typical group schedules, whether people want to gather over breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. The quick service combined with a variety of grab-and-go and sit-down options ensures flexibility; groups can either relax inside or enjoy donuts outdoors while continuing their day. This convenience contributes to its suitability as a go-to location for informal yet memorable social gatherings.
What other unique experiences does The Donut Man provide for groups beyond just donuts?
While donuts are the star attraction, The Donut Man also offers complementary experiences for groups to enhance their visit. The shop’s coffee and breakfast sandwich selections provide savory options for those who want a more balanced meal or a boost of caffeine alongside their sweets. This range suits groups with mixed tastes, ensuring that everyone can find something enjoyable. Additionally, the shop’s location within vibrant food markets like Grand Central Market (in Los Angeles) gives groups the chance to explore other culinary delights nearby after enjoying their donuts. This makes The Donut Man a perfect starting point or anchor for fuller food-centric outings that combine sweet indulgence with culinary exploration. Groups can also engage in social media sharing, turning their meetup into a fun, interactive experience with photogenic treats and colorful settings.
Why do repeat customers and donut enthusiasts keep coming back to The Donut Man?
Customers return to The Donut Man repeatedly because the shop consistently delivers high-quality, fresh, and creative donuts that stand out from ordinary bakery fare. The attention to detail, from selecting ingredients to mastering flavorful combinations, creates a loyal following across different locations. Thanks to decades of refining their craft and staying true to their unique flavors such as the famous strawberry donut, The Donut Man has earned a reputation for excellence that inspires trust and excitement to revisit. Word of mouth and strong ratings—averaging 4.5 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews—reflect widespread satisfaction and enthusiasm. Repeat visits are about more than just food; for many, it’s the social tradition of gathering with friends to enjoy something special together in a familiar, dependable venue that makes The Donut Man a cherished part of local life.
By rallying your friends or family at The Donut Man, you are choosing a place rich with flavor, history, and community spirit, making every meetup a truly sweet occasion to remember.