9 Best Donuts near Salinas

“Traffic on 101 N stopped due to an accident ahead. Instead of sitting in the traffic, I took the nearest exit to visit Prunedale. I've heard a lot of good things about this donut shop, so I thought I should at least try something even though I just finished lunch & was really stuffed. So I asked Ariel, if I could get half a dozen donut holes instead of a whole dozen. Then I realized that I didn't have cash and asked Ariel if I could use my credit card. Ariel's very sweet and understanding, she not only let me use my credit card without extra charge and she put extra donut holes in the bag! I was so pleasantly surprised and impressed with the qualify of the donuts and outstanding customer service! Thank you Ariel and the owners! I'll be back and let everyone else know my great experience.“

“Winchell's Donut House is my absolute go-to spot whenever I’m craving donuts because, quite simply, they have the best donuts in town. Their selection is always fresh, and the variety they offer is fantastic. From classic glazed donuts to more unique flavors, every donut I've tried there has been consistently delicious. The dough is always soft and fluffy, with the perfect amount of sweetness, and the fillings and toppings are just right, making each bite a real treat.

However, as much as I love their donuts, there's one thing that consistently detracts from the experience: the flies. Every time I visit, I notice an unsettling number of flies buzzing around the store. It’s disappointing because the quality of the donuts is top-notch, but the presence of flies makes the environment less than ideal. I understand that it can be difficult to control, especially in a place where food is constantly on display, but it’s something that really stands out and affects the overall experience.

It’s a shame because Winchell's has so much going for it—the friendly staff, the amazing donuts, and the convenient location—but the flies are a significant drawback. I still go back for the donuts because they’re that good, but I find myself wishing they would take more steps to address the issue. Maybe improved cleanliness practices or better fly control methods could make a difference.

In the end, I highly recommend Winchell's Donut House for anyone looking for delicious donuts, but be aware that the atmosphere might not be the most pleasant due to the flies. I hope they can find a way to resolve this, because without that issue, Winchell’s would easily be the best donut shop around, bar none.“

“On a quiet morning in Salinas, we stumbled upon a little shop and…..Wow!
Never tasted donuts like this: soft, very fresh, freshly prepared and with a spectacular maple syrup glaze!
Very high quality/price!
The stop alone is worth the trip to start the day off great! ?

And inside there are also tables where you can eat.
Top!“

“For some this might not be your type of social gathering, but for those that have worked, all their life, working hard labor, this is the great way to pass time talking and checking in on each other. Love the friendly atmosphere of everyone, nice place to sip coffee, chat, eat a donut.
Great location.“

“it’s true - everything about this place is high quality ! still the best donut i’ve ever had & i’ve lived in San Francisco, NYC, Los Angeles & Tokyo. Every time I visit my hometown I make sure to stop by my Sunshine Donut for that simple classic donut in a quaint little plaza in South Salinas. None of that hipster cereal or inventive recipes…. just pure nostalgic flavors. Super lovely owner too. Go & support this place, you’ll see why everyone loves it!“

“Stopped here on the road, would recommend. Helped quickly and lots of options. The person working was very nice. I can only speak to the donuts but we enjoyed. Cappuccinos are from a machine but pretty good all the same. Prices were decent too. The bathroom was clean and not locked, gender neutral. The whole place is wheelchair accessible, it looks like, which is great. Doesn't seem like too many options for those with dietary restrictions is the only drawback.“

“Later in the day- I think around 3 or 4pm, I ordered a huge chicken and bagel sandwich, made fresh and customized and loved it. Then was able to to order any of their doughnuts or mini doughnuts. They were delicious, and everyone was happy with size and flavor since they were able to get exactly what they wanted. Usually, pick of doughnuts is slim at this time at other places!“

“Wow! Stellar customer service and amazingly fresh donuts. Love Dan the Donut Man 💕“

“I've been here twice since the owner changed. I've only had bagels, coffee, and doughnuts. I really want to try the burritos.

This is a quintessential doughnut shop. I'm probably giving them at least 1 star for nostalgia. It's the place you go with your dad on Sunday morning*.

Go, bring cash, you order on the left.

*my dad never took me anywhere like this but I will take my son.“