When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
The Other Side Donuts
Why The Other Side Donuts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Other Side Donuts, located in Salt Lake City's west side, is much more than a doughnut shop—it's a vibrant community hub dedicated to both gourmet sweet treats and transformational social impact. With a striking interior featuring bright pink walls and colorful neon signage, the shop invites customers into a whimsical yet welcoming atmosphere that feels like stepping into a playful dream. The menu is thoughtfully curated, offering everything from beloved classics like maple bars and chocolate-frosted raised doughnuts to creative specialties such as Tang-inspired doughnuts topped with gummy orange slices. One standout is the Maple Dream Buttercream, noted for its thick, indulgent frosting that delights maple enthusiasts. What truly sets The Other Side Donuts apart is its exceptional execution—the doughnuts consistently achieve perfect textures, with chewy raised dough and well-balanced cake varieties, including those filled with rich pastry cream and tropical flavors. Beyond the culinary experience, The Other Side Donuts proudly supports The Other Side Village, a nonprofit focused on recovery and rehabilitation. By enjoying these gourmet treats, patrons contribute to local outreach and the empowerment of individuals overcoming addiction and homelessness, making it a meaningful spot to gather with friends, savor delicious doughnuts, and support a worthy cause.
Here's what people think of The Other Side Donuts
As of recent, The Other Side Donuts holds a 4.9-star rating based on 379 reviews.
Customers consistently praise The Other Side Donuts for its outstanding quality and meaningful mission, reflected in its impressive 4.9-star rating from nearly 380 reviews. Positive reviews highlight the shop’s unique flavor combinations, fresh and perfectly textured doughnuts, and the vibrant, inviting environment. Many reviewers appreciate the wide variety on the menu, noting that both traditional and adventurous options like the S’mores or cotton candy-filled unicorn doughnuts satisfy diverse tastes. Reviewers also value the social enterprise aspect, expressing admiration for the shop’s role in offering vocational opportunities to individuals in recovery and contributing to community healing. On the other hand, some less frequent critiques mention occasional wait times or limited seating, typical for popular local spots, but these issues rarely detract from the overall experience. The few negative mentions do not focus on the product quality or mission but on operational aspects, which seem minor compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback. In conclusion, The Other Side Donuts earns praise not only for delivering delicious, creative doughnuts but also for its impactful contribution to social recovery efforts, creating a warm and purposeful place to meet and enjoy thoughtfully crafted treats.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Leticia Rodriguez
Bright colors and decor. Very inviting. The employee stated they are a non profit and help the homeless. Good donuts but a bit too much for me. Don't come here for simple donuts. They are over the top. A bit pricy as well. Some donuts reached close to $8 a donut. Fast friendly service.
Dani Sachs
Amazing donuts, Hot and cold coffees, sodas, milks and more. Inside seating, outside seating and all for a great cause. This is the place you come when you want a serotonin boost. The bright colors, the beautiful decor, all the little trinket’s and gifts make for a whole experience. They have a large selection of donuts that are not only gorgeous but so good! I brought my 11 yr old and 3 yr old who has autism. Her eyes lit up when she saw the donut case. They offered both kids a little squishy toy and a donut sample. She ran around enjoying herself for an hour.
Aubry Lybbert
Scott was so helpful and friendly. The shop is clean, cute and fully stocked with colorful treats + gift items. THE DONUTS ARE BEAUTIFUL. We can’t wait to come back to try even more flavors! 10/10 recommend for special occasions, birthdays and weekend brunch. UPDATE: The chocolate Trunchbull donut (chocolate on chocolate) is divine. Soft, delicious and perfect when paired with a Diet Coke. Five stars.
Mercedes Beebe
My husband and I found this place because we were craving coffee and donuts on a Saturday morning, and this place was amazing!! They had so many options and flavors that I had never even heard of, but they all looked so good it was hard to choose! They are a non profit that helps the homeless which is also awesome and the donuts were so good! We will definitely be back to try the other flavors. Thank you so much for the wonderful service!
Brianna Rodriguez
I have never been to a donut shop like this! The atmosphere is great, super nice employees, they were extremely helpful. The donuts were absolutely delicious, my daughter and I loved them! I got a caramel macchiato and it was great, better than a lot of other ones I’ve had. Will definitely be coming back with family next time so they can experience the great vibes and donuts like we did :)
How to reach The Other Side Donuts
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Why The Other Side Donuts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Other Side Donuts with your friends?
Gathering with friends at The Other Side Donuts offers more than just a simple coffee and treat run—it’s an experience that sparks joy, fosters connection, and indulges all senses in a warmly vibrant atmosphere. With a stellar 4.9-star rating from 379 reviews, this donut shop is more than a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a local gem where the combination of mouthwatering donuts and the lively setting creates the perfect backdrop for socializing. The shop’s interior bursts with bright pinks and colorful neon, evoking an inviting, playful vibe that makes everyone feel instantly uplifted. The menu, boasting both classic favorites and innovative, creatively topped donuts, appeals to varied tastes within any group. Whether your squad wants maple bars, chocolate frosted raised donuts, or the adventurous TANG donut topped with gummy orange slices, the offerings encourage sharing and enthusiastic conversation. The Other Side Donuts also supports a meaningful local cause: proceeds fund The Other Side Village nonprofit, giving your meetup a feel-good dimension beyond sweet delights. This unique blend of superb food, charitable spirit, and vibrant ambiance make it an undeniable hotspot for creating memorable moments with friends.
What activities can you enjoy at The Other Side Donuts for a group meetup?
The Other Side Donuts invites groups to dive into a variety of engaging activities centered around great food, community, and fun. First and foremost, tasting their wide-ranging menu is an event in itself. Groups can order multiple styles and flavors of donuts to sample, sparking lively discussions about everyone’s favorites and encouraging sharing to savor multiple varieties. Beyond eating, the bright interior—with its colorful signage and cheerful décor—offers a great space for casual photos and social media moments, making your meetup visually memorable. The shop’s friendly and welcoming vibe creates an atmosphere where conversations flow easily, making it ideal for catching up, celebrating small occasions, or simply enjoying downtime together. Additionally, The Other Side Donuts holds special promotions, including free donut days on Mondays and Thursdays, which give groups a chance to make their meetup even sweeter. While the primary activity is indulging in superb donuts and coffee, the overall atmosphere promotes relaxation and camaraderie, making social bonding effortless. It’s a place designed to bring people together through simple, joyful pleasures.
Why is The Other Side Donuts perfect for hosting a group meetup?
Hosting your group meetup at The Other Side Donuts is ideal thanks to its unique blend of quality, atmosphere, and community spirit that caters perfectly to social gatherings. The space itself is thoughtfully designed to be bright, cheerful, and inviting, which naturally supports a lively and friendly group dynamic. Groups are welcomed with ample seating that encourages close conversations and casual hanging out without feeling rushed or cramped. The donut menu’s variety means that everyone in your group—from classic plain donut lovers to those craving adventurous flavors—will find something delightful, helping to satisfy diverse tastes and dietary preferences. Beyond the food, the shop’s strong connection to supporting local nonprofits adds a meaningful underpinning to your gathering, turning it into more than just a social event but also a small act of community support. The extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays allow flexibility for meetups that can stretch into the evening, perfect for weekend plans. Altogether, these factors blend to make The Other Side Donuts an excellent, thoughtful choice for groups looking to enjoy great treats in a supportive, colorful, and friendly environment.
What makes the donut menu at The Other Side Donuts a must-try for friends and family?
The dessert menu is the heart of The Other Side Donuts, crafted with both creativity and precision to delight every donut enthusiast in your party. Classic staples like maple bars and chocolate frosted raised donuts provide familiar comfort flavors executed to perfection with tender, chewy textures and thick, luscious frostings. For those seeking adventure, specialty offerings such as the TANG donut with gummy orange slice toppings introduce fun, unexpected twists that keep taste buds excited. The menu is also impressively balanced; even exotic or tropical flavors maintain a well-thought-out harmony, thanks to the bakery’s attention to flavor proportions and freshness. This quality ensures that whether your friends prefer traditional sweets or bold, innovative pastries, everyone leaves satisfied. The variety encourages shared tasting experiences, fostering friendly debates and laughter over whose pick reigns supreme. Coupled with top-tier coffee options to complement the sweets, the menu transforms each meetup into a flavorful journey that subtly invites bonding over shared indulgence.
How does The Other Side Donuts support local community and why does that matter for meetups?
One unique aspect that makes The Other Side Donuts especially appealing as a meetup spot is its commitment to community welfare through The Other Side Village nonprofit. Every purchase contributes to funding this local outreach, a fact that adds a layer of positive social impact to your visit. This connection encourages a feel-good atmosphere among groups who value social responsibility alongside culinary enjoyment. Gathering here is not only a way to reconnect with friends and family but also to collectively support causes that benefit your wider community. This shared purpose can enhance the meetup experience, giving conversations more depth and meaning, and inspiring attendees through the visible link between enjoying delicious food and giving back. It also positions The Other Side Donuts as a community hub, where people don’t just consume—they participate in a local ecosystem of support and kindness. This social element elevates meetups from ordinary to extraordinary, aligning fun with meaningful impact. For groups who prioritize community connection, this is an invaluable quality.
What are the hours and accessibility options that accommodate group meetups at The Other Side Donuts?
The Other Side Donuts is conveniently open Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with extended hours on Friday and Saturday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. These generous hours give groups plenty of flexibility for planning meetups, whether it’s a bright morning gathering, brunch catch-up, or a relaxed weekend evening hangout. The later weekend hours especially suit friends or family looking to unwind after a busy day with tasty treats and coffee. Its location on the west side of Salt Lake City is easily accessible, making it a convenient spot for many locals. The space is also designed to be bright and open, accommodating groups comfortably without feeling crowded, which is crucial for group dynamics and ease of movement. This accessibility supports spontaneous meetups and planned events alike. Furthermore, the donut shop’s promotions, like free donuts on selected days, provide an attractive incentive for groups to revisit regularly, turning it into a favorite meeting place in the neighborhood.
Why do customers consistently rate The Other Side Donuts so highly?
The Other Side Donuts’ astonishing 4.9-star rating, amassed from nearly 380 reviews, is a testament to its consistent excellence in product quality, service, and overall experience. Reviewers frequently highlight the perfect dough texture—whether raised or cake donuts—as well as the skillful balance of flavors in even the more unconventional toppings. The visually captivating store design and friendly, welcoming staff contribute significantly to the positive vibe cited by many patrons. Customers love the variety and creativity of the menu, which makes each visit feel like a new adventure, inviting them to try new flavors alongside beloved classics. The attention to detail, from the flavorful pastry cream to the thick frostings, shows a level of craftsmanship that elevates this donut shop above typical eateries. This combination of high-quality food, great service, engaging environment, and a noble cause behind the business resonates deeply with the community, explaining why people return again and again and why it is so highly rated as a group meetup venue.
How can The Other Side Donuts enhance your social media and memory-making experiences?
Beyond taste and atmosphere, The Other Side Donuts offers a visually arresting environment perfect for creating memorable photos and social media content. The striking bright pink walls and colorful neon signs create a playful, photogenic backdrop that encourages groups to snap pictures while they enjoy their donuts. Sharing posts or stories featuring the vivid colors and creative pastries helps attendees relive the fun moments and can spark curiosity and enthusiasm among their social circles. For groups who enjoy documenting their meetups, this place provides natural décor that elevates every photo without needing extra props or setups. Also, the donut display case itself, filled with a dazzling assortment of colors and shapes, acts like a centerpiece for photo opportunities. This capability to blend culinary delight with visual appeal enhances any meetup, making it not just about food but about capturing and sharing joyful moments effortlessly.
What special promotions or events should groups know about when planning a meetup?
One standout perk for groups planning a visit to The Other Side Donuts is their ongoing promotion of free donuts every Monday and Thursday. This offer presents an excellent reason to schedule regular meetups, letting groups enjoy their favorite treats at no extra cost on these days. Such promotions help create anticipation and a tradition that can turn casual gatherings into routine social events. Besides free donut days, the shop sometimes collaborates with local community initiatives, giving groups a chance to participate in or learn about charitable activities while enjoying their time together. Planning a meetup around these promotional days or community-focused events not only makes your outing more economical but adds a sense of occasion and shared purpose. Staying informed about upcoming deals or special donut releases via their social media channels can enhance the experience further, offering surprise delights or limited edition flavors to celebrate with friends.
Why should families feel comfortable choosing The Other Side Donuts for group outings?
Families looking for a welcoming, fun, and delicious setting for group outings will find The Other Side Donuts to be an excellent choice. The bright and cheerful atmosphere appeals to children and adults alike, offering a colorful and safe space for families to gather. The donut varieties include approachable classics perfect for kids, alongside more sophisticated options for adults, ensuring all tastes and age groups are satisfied. The shop’s layout allows enough space for families to sit together without feeling cramped, which is essential for a relaxed and enjoyable visit. Furthermore, the commitment to community support models positive values for younger family members, making the meetup both fun and meaningful. Parents can enjoy high-quality coffee and pastries while kids delight in fun flavors, creating a balanced experience that nurtures family bonding while indulging sweet cravings. This combination of family-friendly ambiance, tasty treats, and community-minded spirit makes The Other Side Donuts a top pick for family meetups.
What makes The Other Side Donuts stand out compared to other donut shops?
The Other Side Donuts distinguishes itself in several meaningful ways, setting a high bar among donut shops, especially for group meetups. First, its vibrant, engaging décor creates an atmosphere that’s both visually and emotionally uplifting, unlike many cookie-cutter donut chains. Second, the menu’s creative diversity—ranging from classic to wildly inventive donuts—ensures a fresh and exciting taste experience for every visit. Third, the consistent excellent execution of pastries, from chewy raised doughs to perfectly balanced creams and frostings, guarantees customer satisfaction repeatedly. Fourth, the business’s dedication to supporting local nonprofit causes adds a socially responsible layer, giving patrons the satisfaction of contributing to their community simply by enjoying a treat. Lastly, the friendly, welcoming staff and community vibe make everyone feel like part of something special. These combined features create a unique destination that supports social gathering, meaningful impact, and culinary delight all under one roof.
This comprehensive overview highlights The Other Side Donuts as a vibrant and community-driven venue perfect for group meetups with friends or family, offering great food, a lively environment, and meaningful experiences that extend beyond the usual donut shop visit.