The Donut Man

Introduction / Overview

For over five decades, The Donut Man has been a sweet fixture in the Southern California culinary landscape, a true story of a small-town donut shop achieving iconic status. What began in 1972 as a local favorite in Glendora has since expanded its delicious reach, bringing its legendary, handmade creations to the heart of Downtown Los Angeles at the historic Grand Central Market. This is not just another donut shop; it is a cultural landmark built on a commitment to quality, a passion for fresh ingredients, and a dedication to the craft of donut making. Every single donut is cut, shaped, fried, and frosted by hand on-site, a process that ensures the distinct, incomparable quality that has earned the shop features on national television and a devoted, cult-like following across California and beyond. The Donut Man's success is a testament to the American Dream, embodied by its owner, Jim Nakano, and his uncompromising standards for both product and customer service. When you visit the stall at Grand Central Market, you're not just buying a treat; you're tasting a piece of California history, an operation that has consistently delivered high-quality baked goods for nearly 50 years. From the moment you walk up to the counter, you'll be greeted by an array of freshly-made classics and the show-stopping seasonal delights that have made the shop famous. Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, a stop here is an essential Los Angeles culinary experience.

The move to Grand Central Market, a historical landmark itself, was a conscious decision to connect the shop’s rich heritage with the vibrant energy of downtown LA. The Donut Man seeks to bring its culture of community and quality to a new, diverse urban clientele. While the original Glendora shop is a cherished Route 66 icon, the Grand Central Market location offers an accessible, central spot for Angelenos to satisfy their cravings without the drive east. This stall perfectly captures the essence of the original: a focus on freshly made-to-order treats, the same beloved recipes, and an unwavering commitment to quality. The atmosphere is casual, perfect for a quick stop during a busy workday or as a sweet treat to cap off a savory meal from one of the market’s many other vendors. The aroma of fresh dough and sweet glaze fills the air, drawing people in for a taste of their famous creations. The shop caters to a diverse crowd, being especially popular for solo diners seeking a quick, satisfying moment of indulgence.

Location and Accessibility

The Donut Man’s downtown Los Angeles location is situated within the bustling and iconic Grand Central Market, a century-old food hall that has served as a cultural melting pot and gathering space since 1917. This location provides convenient access for anyone working, living, or exploring the historic core of DTLA. You can find the stall at: 317 S Broadway A-1, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA. Being inside the market places it right next to a variety of other popular eateries and shops, making it an ideal destination for an all-day food excursion. The Grand Central Market itself is a major transit hub, easily reachable by public transportation including the Metro B (Red) and D (Purple) Lines at Pershing Square station, which is just a short walk away. For those traveling by car, there are multiple paid parking options nearby, including paid parking garages, paid parking lots, and paid street parking, which is typical for the downtown area. The establishment is committed to accessibility, offering a wheelchair accessible entrance and wheelchair accessible parking lot options nearby, ensuring that all customers can easily access their fantastic donuts.

Services Offered

• Takeout: Orders can be picked up directly from the stall.
• Delivery: The Donut Man offers delivery services for customer convenience.
• Breakfast: Serving fresh donuts and coffee, ideal for a morning treat.
• Dessert: Perfect for an afternoon or post-meal indulgence.
• Quick Visit: The atmosphere is casual and designed for a fast, efficient service experience.
• Payment Options: Accepts major forms of payment including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features / Highlights

• Originator of the Fresh Fruit Donut: The Donut Man is the creator of the iconic, seasonal Fresh Strawberry and Fresh Peach donuts, a feature that distinguishes them from nearly every other donut shop.
• The Fresh Strawberry Donut: This is the shop's most famous and beloved item. It is a seasonal spectacle, featuring a massive, classic glazed donut sliced open and generously stuffed with a mountain of fresh, glazed strawberries. It is available roughly from February to September, aligning with the peak California strawberry season.
• Handmade Quality Since 1972: Every donut is made by hand on-site, a dedication to traditional methods that has been maintained since the shop’s founding. This commitment is often visible in the unique shapes of the donuts and contributes to their superior taste and texture.
• The Tiger Tail: A unique, braided, 12-inch donut featuring a blend of vanilla/cinnamon and chocolate dough, another long-time customer favorite that is an absolute must-try.
• Historic Location: The DTLA stall is proudly located inside the celebrated and historic Grand Central Market, adding a unique cultural backdrop to the dining experience.
• Great Coffee: Highly rated for its quality coffee, making it the perfect pairing for any of their sweet treats.
• Diverse Menu: Beyond the famous fruit donuts, the shop offers a wide selection of classics including various glazed, cake, and filled options to suit every craving.

Contact Information

Address: 317 S Broadway A-1, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA

Phone: Search for the Grand Central Market location phone number for direct contact.

What is Worth Choosing

When visiting The Donut Man, the primary choice for any Californian or visitor is undoubtedly the Fresh Strawberry Donut (priced at $8.25 when in season). Its reputation is absolutely well-earned; customers rave about its size, the perfect fluffy-yet-chewy texture of the base donut, and the sweet, juicy burst of fresh strawberries that spill out of the center. This donut is a true California original, invented when the owner, Jim Nakano, decided to utilize an abundant local strawberry crop. Because strawberries are a seasonal fruit, this masterpiece is typically available from late winter (around February) through early fall (around September). If you are visiting outside of this window, be sure to ask if the seasonal Fresh Peach Donut, another original creation, is available. The freshness of the fruit is what truly elevates these items, setting them apart from any standard filled donut you might find elsewhere. For those who prefer a classic, the Tiger Tail ($3.95) is a highly recommended alternative. It's a fun, two-toned twist that offers a delightful chew and a balanced mix of flavors. Customers also frequently praise the high-quality coffee, which makes a great accompaniment to any sweet choice. Whether you opt for a classic Glazed Donut ($2.70), a rich Bavarian Creme ($3.70), or an elevated Gourmet Cream Cheese ($4.15), you are guaranteed a product made with care and decades of expertise. The overall consensus from real customers is that The Donut Man is "absolutely worth the hype," offering "hand-made goodness" that showcases a commitment to quality that has never wavered since 1972.

Beyond the menu items, what is truly worth choosing is the experience of supporting a California institution. By locating within Grand Central Market, The Donut Man continues its half-century-long tradition of bringing simple, high-quality pleasure to the community. Its enduring legacy and the visible care taken in preparing each pastry make it a standout choice for breakfast, dessert, or a quick, memorable treat in DTLA. The consistent quality and the show-stopping seasonal treats make this shop a necessary stop for anyone looking for the best donuts in Los Angeles.

The Donut Man

317 S Broadway A-1, Los Angeles, CA 90013, USA