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ZipPicks Awards
Best Donuts in LA Arts District
Master Critic Review
Glady's Donuts & Ice Cream
7.9
A family-run donut shop that has held its corner of a Washington Blvd strip mall for three decades, drawing early-morning regulars with 4 AM openings and prices that feel frozen in time. The draw is straightforward—solid croissants, filled donuts, and soft-serve ice cream at a pace and price point that rewards showing up before the rest of Downtown wakes up.
Must-Try Dishes:
Croissants, Chocolate-Filled Donut, Breakfast Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Family-run donut shop operating for 30 years with some of the most affordable prices in Downtown LA, opening as early as 4 AM
Who should go: Early risers and budget-conscious sweet tooth seekers
When to visit: Early morning for freshest selection; opens 4 AM weekdays
What to order: Grab a croissant or breakfast sandwich with coffee for a savory start, then add a chocolate-filled donut or bubble gum ice cream for dessert
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Strip mall with its own free lot—ample spaces, easy in-and-out off Washington Blvd at the Griffith Ave signal
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not a traditional date spot — this is a casual, counter-service donut and ice cream shop, not a sit-down restaurant. That said, it could work as a charming, low-pressure stop on a date itinerary. Grab donuts and ice cream and stroll the Downtown LA Arts District nearby. The 30-year neighborhood legacy gives it authentic local character that beats a generic coffee chain.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservation needed — this is a walk-up counter-service shop. Order at the counter and you're set. Opens at 5 AM daily and closes at 5 PM, so it's a morning-and-daytime-only spot. Popular items can sell out later in the day, so go earlier for the best selection. Note: some visitors report cash is preferred, so bring bills just in case.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — a donut and ice cream shop is about as kid-friendly as it gets. The casual counter-service format means no need to worry about kids sitting still through a long meal. Bubble gum ice cream and chocolate-filled donuts are kid magnets. Affordable prices make it easy to let kids pick their own treats without breaking the bank.
Is it good for groups? Fine for a casual group stop, but this is a small shop in a strip-mall suite — not a place to gather and linger with a large party. Best for groups grabbing treats to go or eating quickly. Seating is limited. For a group outing, plan to order and enjoy your donuts elsewhere nearby rather than trying to camp out inside.
Is there outdoor seating? Not confirmed — online sources do not specifically mention dedicated outdoor seating. As a small suite in a commercial strip, there may be a bench or sidewalk area outside, but no formal patio. This is primarily an order-and-go shop. Call (213) 749-2530 to confirm current seating options.
Best For
Better for: Early-morning sugar fix or cheap grab-and-go donuts and ice cream—opens at 5 AM, cash-only, no frills
Consider Alternatives If: You need dinner (closes at 5 PM) or want to pay by card—cash only
Hours
Monday4am - 4pm
Tuesday4am - 4pm
Wednesday4am - 4pm
Thursday4am - 4pm
Friday4am - 4pm
Saturday4am - 4pm
Sunday5am - 2pm