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ZipPicks Awards
Best Donuts in Culver City
Master Critic Review
Jolly Donuts
7.9
An old-school donut shop that quietly runs a full boba and Thai iced tea program alongside the pastry case, with prices that haven't caught up to the neighborhood's rising rents. The dual-format counter works for early-morning breakfast sandwich runs and afternoon boba stops alike, making it a repeatable pit stop rather than a destination. Best approached as a no-fuss, high-frequency habit spot where the value compounds over time.
Must-Try Dishes:
Breakfast Sandwich, Boba, Bagel
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Old-school donut shop doubling as a legit boba and Thai iced tea counter, all at prices that feel stuck in a previous decade
Who should go: Early risers and budget-conscious snackers in Mar Vista
When to visit: Early morning for fresh donuts and hot breakfast sandwiches
What to order: Grab a breakfast sandwich and pair it with a Thai iced tea or boba; add a croissant or bagel if you're stocking up
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free small lot on-site, shared with neighboring businesses—tight during peak morning hours, so be patient pulling in and out. Street parking also available on Venice Blvd.
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No - this is a casual counter-service donut shop with a cozy, old-fashioned neighborhood vibe. Great for a low-key morning coffee meetup, but not suited for a romantic dinner date. If you're looking for a charming, no-pressure first hangout over donuts and coffee, it works as a daytime icebreaker spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - this is walk-in only with no reservations. Order at the counter and grab a seat. The shop opens at 5 AM and can get busy during morning hours, but counter service keeps the line moving quickly. Seating is first-come, first-served with a modest number of indoor tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - it's a donut shop, so kids love it by default. The space is clean and welcoming, and the casual atmosphere means no one will mind noisy little ones. There's no dedicated kids menu, but donuts, smoothies, and boba are kid crowd-pleasers. High chair availability is not confirmed - call ahead at (310) 397-1218 if you need one.
Is it good for groups? Small groups only - the indoor seating area is modest with limited table sizes. A group of 4-6 could manage, but this isn't a venue for large parties. No private rooms. For bigger gatherings, Jolly Donuts is better as a catering/box order pickup - regulars frequently order dozen boxes for offices and celebrations.
Is there outdoor seating? Not confirmed - no sources indicate outdoor seating. The shop is located in a strip mall on Venice Blvd with a shared parking lot, so formal patio or sidewalk seating is unlikely. Call (310) 397-1218 to confirm.
Best For
Better for: A quick, cheap morning grab—fresh donuts, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and boba drinks at neighborhood prices. In and out fast even during busy hours.
Consider Alternatives If: You need spacious parking or indoor group seating—the lot is small and it's a counter-service spot built for takeout, not lingering.
Hours
Monday5am - 5pm
Tuesday5am - 5pm
Wednesday5am - 5pm
Thursday5am - 5pm
Friday5am - 5pm
Saturday5am - 5pm
Sunday5am - 3pm