When asking yourself about something to do near me in South Miami with a group of friends or family, consider
The Salty Donut
Why The Salty Donut is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Salty Donut has evolved from a humble pop-up in a tiny 1950s trailer to a celebrated culinary destination, captivating donut lovers with its inventive flavors and artisanal craftsmanship. Founded in 2015 by Andy Rodriguez and Amanda Pizarro in Miami's Wynwood district, it quickly garnered a devoted following due to the unique marriage of sweet and savory profiles, like the famous Brown Butter & Sea Salt and Maple Bacon donuts. The Salty Donut’s dedication to quality, using only the finest ingredients, elevates the humble donut into a gourmet treat. Beyond their mouthwatering creations, this business has grown strategically, now boasting multiple locations across Miami, Austin, Dallas, Orlando, and soon other cities such as Tampa and Charlotte. Each location fosters a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that invites friends and families to gather, relax, and enjoy thoughtfully curated coffee alongside their donuts. Their spaces blend artistry and comfort, often reflecting the local character of their neighborhoods. Additionally, The Salty Donut offers an innovative app and rewards program, enhancing convenience and customer engagement. Their iconic vintage campers provide a nostalgic touch, serving freshly made treats at community events, weddings, and corporate functions, reinforcing their role as a central social hub. This combination of culinary excellence, community focus, and innovative spirit makes The Salty Donut a beloved meeting spot for locals and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of The Salty Donut
As of recent, The Salty Donut holds a 4.6-star rating based on 999 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently reflect high satisfaction with The Salty Donut, praising both the quality of the donuts and the vibrant atmosphere of their locations. Many patrons highlight signature flavors such as Maple Bacon, Brown Butter & Sea Salt, and Dulce de Leche for their exceptional balance of sweetness and savory notes, as well as the freshness and perfect texture of the donuts. The coffee receives favorable mentions for its complementary taste and quality, enhancing the overall experience. Positive reviews also frequently commend the friendly staff and efficient service, even during busy hours when long lines are commonplace, reflecting the brand's popularity and trust. On the other hand, some negative feedback from customers touches on the challenge of long wait times, especially on weekends and at peak hours, which can test patrons’ patience. A few reviews point to limited seating availability in some locations and occasional issues with consistency in certain flavors or the speed of service under high demand. Despite these occasional criticisms, the consensus paints The Salty Donut as a well-loved establishment that prioritizes quality and community spirit. The positive experiences far outweigh the negatives, with many customers expressing intent to return and recommend the spot. Overall, review trends indicate The Salty Donut successfully delivers an exceptional donut and coffee experience wrapped in a community-centric vibe, sustaining its high rating and loyal customer base.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nicoly Miyuki
🍩🍩🍩🍩 The Salty Donut: A Sweet Escape! If you're craving a delicious, fluffy donut that melts in your mouth, then The Salty Donut is the perfect spot. Seriously, you need to try their flavors—they're unbeatable! My personal favorites are the 3 Leches and Nutella. At $4.50, the price is fair for the quality you get. Beyond donuts, they also offer coffee, juices, and teas to complete your treat. It's definitely worth checking out!
Esty Frometa
I’m a little late on writing this review but I promised myself I wouldn’t forget too. I went in like 2 weeks ago right before taking a state exam next door at Pearson view . I was tired and really sleepy. I went in like 45 minutes before my exam to have a coffee , donut and study a little more . I was greeted by John ( I hope I’m not getting his name wrong ). I told him , I needed something to wake me up . He made his recommendations and I got an ice coffee and a min keylime donut . I told him I was taking a big teaching test shortly . He was AMazing!!! He checked on me about my coffee and donut . Then I overheard him tell his co workers how he hoped I passed my test . I told him thank you ! He was like “ we need teachers so I really hope you do well .” I loved my coffee and the donut . To be honest there was nothing mini about that donut . It was smaller than the others but definitely mighty . The filling tasted just like a keylime pie . I genuinely enjoyed it but what made my visit so extra special was John’s customer service . When I left he wished me luck and even told me to come back and let him know if I passed my test . He was like you just got to believe that you already passed. I feel like I ended up at the right place before my test , with a genuinely happy and positive person . I passed my test! I went back to tell him but he had already gone for the day . I hope the owners see this review and that I got the right name . You have an amazing employee . I got way more than a coffee and donut . I got a great customer service experience, that now I will positively always remember. Those state exams make you really nervous and his positivity made a difference. By the end two other workers even wished me luck . Thank you John, for going above and beyond !
Caleb
Phenomenal donuts. You really get what you pay for. Each one tastes like a completely different dessert you would get from a sit down restaurant. Not simply a "blank" flavored donut. Most are large. The filled ones are HEAVY with filling 😋 From left to right cookies n cream, Samoa, key lime pie, Nutella, salted brown butter (my favorite), guava and cheese. One word DECADENT!
Erin Pettit
I stopped by there one morning on my way north to try out donuts. As I travel I always stop at local shops to get donuts. I’d never had Salty Donut before. I always try a “simple” classic and one that is fancier. They have a deal where you buy 4 it is cheaper so I got a few. All were delicious. Made with fresh ingredients and melted in my mouth. The service was quick and efficient. Top notch! What surprised me most was that the cinnamon sugar donut, which is my go to at all shops, was vegan. I was skeptical at first - but it was as good as all the other regular donuts! It’s now my go to when I visit Salty!
Dr. Carol Williams Jackson MD
This is a chain , first one i went to was in CLT,NC. Great customer service in here by the female cashier, I went Saturday 8/3/24 lunch time, she was very helpful ,friendly and welcoming. This would have gotten 5 stars if it wasn’t for the pricing , it’s on the pricier side but it’s delicious if you are a donut lover! A lot of service animal dogs in this area tho..& i have a dog phobia. Place is kept clean & i loved the music in there. Parking: An hour is free in parking garage nearby. We will be back!
How to reach The Salty Donut
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Why The Salty Donut may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Salty Donut with your friends?
Gathering your friends at The Salty Donut is an irresistible idea because this place offers a unique blend of extraordinary flavors, warm ambiance, and a social atmosphere that makes any meetup special. Unlike the typical donut shop, The Salty Donut is an artisanal donut haven where each donut is crafted with care and creativity, turning a simple snack into a delightful experience. The variety of inventive donut flavors—from churro donuts dusted with cinnamon sugar to exotic guava and cheese combinations—invites exploration and sharing, sparking lively conversations and shared moments of culinary discovery. This level of indulgence, paired with expertly brewed coffee and tea, sets the stage for long chats and laughter over cups of rich espresso and sweet treats. Moreover, the shop cultivates a welcoming, community-focused vibe reflected in its stylish, cozy spaces that encourage friends and families to relax and connect. Whether it's a casual weekend brunch or a special celebration with loved ones, The Salty Donut elevates the gathering experience beyond just food; it’s about creating joyful, memorable moments together in a place that feels like a neighborhood treasure.
What activities can groups enjoy at The Salty Donut?
The Salty Donut is perfectly tailored for group activities that go beyond simply eating donuts. First, the space itself invites you to linger and enjoy conversation. The seating arrangements accommodate small to medium-sized groups comfortably, providing an intimate yet lively atmosphere ideal for catching up with friends or hosting a casual celebration. For those who want a more engaging experience, The Salty Donut also offers occasional themed events and seasonal menu launches, which make group visits exciting with exclusive flavors and limited-time treats to try together. Another fun activity is the interactive tasting experience—ordering a variety of donuts to share allows everyone to sample distinct flavors side by side and debate their favorites. For event organizers or larger gatherings, The Salty Donut’s vintage camper catering option can be booked, bringing donuts and coffee directly to your party, wedding, or corporate function, turning any meetup into a memorable event. The venue’s welcoming vibe, combined with artisanal food and coffee, ensures every visit inspires connection, making it an ideal spot for group outings.
Why is The Salty Donut ideal for hosting meetups with friends and family?
The Salty Donut’s uniqueness lies in its blend of craft, community, and comfort—key ingredients for successful meetups. Its artisanal donuts, crafted with the finest ingredients and innovative flavor combinations, serve as excellent conversation starters and shared delights that everyone can enjoy together. Unlike conventional coffee shops that may rush customers, this place encourages a relaxed pace, allowing gatherings to stretch over hours without feeling out of place. The venue's well-thought-out design fosters a friendly atmosphere perfect for socializing, while the quality coffee and tea offerings complement the sweet treats, catering to a variety of tastes. Accessibility and multiple locations across cities mean it’s always within reach for many groups. Additionally, the option to order ahead via their app and even request local delivery makes it easy to include The Salty Donut in your plans, whether as a spontaneous hangout or a planned event. These factors combine to make The Salty Donut not just a place to grab a quick bite, but a destination for meaningful social experiences.
What makes the menu at The Salty Donut special for group enjoyment?
The menu at The Salty Donut is a standout feature that transforms a simple meetup into a culinary adventure. Featuring donuts like the rich white chocolate tres leches or the vegan Oreo cookie variant, the menu offers something for everyone, including those with dietary preferences. The donuts are individually priced at a premium, reflecting their artisanal quality, making it ideal for groups to share a variety of flavors without committing to large quantities. This sharing aspect transforms tasting into a communal event, perfect for sparking conversation and bonding over shared indulgence. Additionally, the coffee and tea menu is thoughtfully curated with high-quality, best-in-class purveyors to ensure each sip complements the donuts. Seasonal specials and rotating flavors keep the menu fresh and exciting, encouraging repeat visits and group discoveries. Whether your group craves a classic churro donut or an adventurous guava and cheese creation, the menu makes every gathering an opportunity to explore new tastes together.
How does The Salty Donut’s atmosphere and vibe support social gatherings?
The Salty Donut prides itself on creating a warm, welcoming environment that naturally fosters social interaction. Its decor and layout balance vintage charm with modern comfort, resulting in spaces that feel cozy yet trendy—perfect for relaxing with friends or family. Soft lighting, communal tables, and inviting design elements encourage conversation and casual mingling. The vibe is intentionally community-centric, reflected both in the shop’s posture as a neighborhood hub and its active participation in local events. The staff’s friendly and knowledgeable approach further enhances the experience, making every guest feel valued whether they’re regulars or first-timers. Whether you’re meeting for a mid-morning coffee break or an afternoon indulgence, the atmosphere is conducive to lingering and enjoying each other’s company. This tone, combined with exceptional food and drink, makes The Salty Donut not just a place to eat but a social space where friendships flourish.
What other conveniences make The Salty Donut an easy choice for groups?
Convenience is another critical factor making The Salty Donut a top option for meeting with friends and family. With multiple locations in major cities and neighborhoods, including Miami, Austin, and Charlotte, it’s accessible to a broad audience. Their mobile app enhances the experience by allowing guests to order ahead for pickup or delivery, minimizing wait times and ensuring your group’s treats are ready when you arrive. The app features a rewards program that benefits loyal customers with perks and discounts, an added bonus for frequent meetups. The vintage campers available for event catering extend the brand’s offerings beyond the store, perfect for private parties and corporate gatherings, bringing the donut experience to any venue. These thoughtful conveniences demonstrate The Salty Donut’s commitment to making group gatherings seamless and enjoyable, from planning through to the last bite.
How can celebrating special occasions at The Salty Donut enhance your group meetup?
Choosing The Salty Donut for a special occasion adds an element of unique charm and elevated fun to your celebration. The shop’s distinctive donuts function as both delicious treats and visual centerpieces, adding flair to birthdays, anniversaries, or casual celebrations with friends and family. Because each donut is a work of art with carefully crafted flavors and presentations, they provide excellent photo opportunities and memorable talking points, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. The staff is experienced in supporting events and can accommodate special requests, making your group feel truly cared for. Moreover, the option to book the vintage camper for customized onsite catering means celebrations have that extra personal touch, creating lasting memories in an engaging, festive environment. Celebrating with The Salty Donut adds flavor and joy to your gathering in ways that go far beyond typical party food options.
Why do reviewers rate The Salty Donut so highly for group visits?
Customer reviews frequently highlight The Salty Donut’s exceptional qualities that make it ideal for group visits. Many reviewers praise the unique and delicious donut flavors that surprise and delight, as well as the quality of the coffee that perfectly complements the sweets. The atmosphere is often described as inviting and warm, encouraging extended visits and comfortable socializing. While the price point for the artisanal donuts is higher than traditional options, customers feel the experience—including the product quality and vibe—justifies this premium. Group visitors also appreciate the efficient service and the option to pre-order through the app, which reduces wait times and stress when coordinating meetups. Overall, the 4.6-star rating based on nearly a thousand reviews reflects a broad consensus that The Salty Donut delivers consistently excellent experiences for groups looking to gather over great food in a friendly setting.
What makes The Salty Donut a unique community hub?
The Salty Donut distinguishes itself as more than just a donut shop—it actively builds community through its ethos and actions. This is reflected in their commitment to creating welcoming spaces that feel like neighborhood living rooms where people from all backgrounds can connect. The shop’s story, beginning as a pop-up in a vintage camper, adds a layer of nostalgic charm and authenticity that resonates with customers. Their involvement in local events, partnerships, and the deployment of mobile catering units at weddings and corporate functions further enhance community ties. This emphasis on connection manifests in the way the shop encourages guests to slow down, savor moments, and engage with neighbors and friends. For groups, this means their meetup isn’t just about the food but participating in a shared community experience that enriches social bonds and local culture.
In summary, The Salty Donut offers an exceptional destination for group meetups with friends and family due to its innovative menu, inviting atmosphere, convenient services, and strong community focus. Whether indulging in exquisite donuts and perfectly paired coffee, participating in special events, or simply enjoying quality time in a comfortable, stylish setting, The Salty Donut combines flavor and fellowship to transform ordinary gatherings into meaningful celebrations of connection and joy.