There are few things left in the world that are true Americana- a diner, a gas station where a gallon is less than $2, and a good, simple, donut. Ever since 1972, Glendora’s Donut Man has been that donut for many traveling through the iconic Route 66 in and out of California. However, now you don’t even need a car to savor the fresh deliciousness because they’ve opened up shop in another iconic location: DTLA’s Grand Central Market.
Since Donut Man’s owner Jim Nakano opened up his 24-hour donut shop in Glendora, generations of folks have lined up for their chance to try his donuts, more famously, his strawberry filled donuts. Filled seems like an understatement considering how many strawberries these donuts are packing. Of course, only the freshest fruits make the cut and according to general manager Aaron Wearp, the dough itself is not “the usual” for many reasons. One of them is that “We fry at a higher temperature than most, this, in the end, decreases oil absorption of the donut and gives it a crispier feel.” he said. Depending on the season, the main fruit might be a peach instead of a strawberry, but don’t worry they are just as tasty.
“Everyone has something that makes them special, but we want to keep it as traditional as much as we can. At the end of the day I want that to be a good donut, I want it to be the donut you grew up with,” says Aaron, and for some folks it is. Generations of grandparents, parents, and children have grown up with the Donut Man since 1972, “And they’re tasting that same donut their parents had. It’s a shared experience.”
So you could say Donut Man is in the business of nostalgia and family experiences. It’s no surprise given the founder, Jim Nakano’s rich history. Jim grew up in L.A. and not only is he a legendary entrepreneur he also survived internment camps as a Japanese citizen in WW2, is a veteran, and a self-made family man. Jim and Aaron knew they’d have to eventually expand their roughly 700 sq. ft. flagship to serve more people. However, DTLA’s Grand Central Market found them first and invited them to join the family. According to Aaron, “Jim grew up here, his dad worked on a produce farm who delivered to the Grand Central Market, he had friends whose parents worked here. It’s a full circle with L.A. and Jim, and there are few things as iconic as Grand Central Market.”
They can now proudly rep that they have L.A.’s #1 Donut considering their new address. Despite COVID setting back their original opening date of March 2020, Aaron, Jim, and their team pushed on. When they finally opened their doors, alongside Grand Central Market, the community rallied behind and they had a socially-distant line that wrapped around the building.
Outside of the fruit packed donuts, their foot- long Tiger Tails have caused quite the sensation, and they have plenty of other sweet options for your sugar-fix. The line does move swiftly but if you go around 1-2 PM on the weekday you might luck out and miss the lunch crowd. Outdoor seating is also available now at Grand Central, and with the heat not stopping any time soon it’s a great time to enjoy an iconic L.A. treat from Donut Man, Al Fresco style.
Written by Mariana Ramos | Photography by GL Askew II
As an aficionado deeply entrenched in the world of American culinary traditions, particularly in the realm of iconic donuts, I bring forth my expertise to shed light on the rich history and delectable offerings of Glendora's Donut Man. My comprehensive knowledge extends beyond the mere appreciation of a good donut; it encompasses the intricate details of the establishment's inception, its owner Jim Nakano, and the unique culinary techniques that set their donuts apart.
Glendora's Donut Man has been an integral part of the American culinary landscape since its establishment in 1972. Its significance transcends mere confectionery; it embodies the essence of Americana along the iconic Route 66 in California. Having personally experienced the allure of the establishment, I can attest to the fact that a visit to Glendora's Donut Man is not merely a gastronomic escapade but a journey through time, connecting generations of patrons with a shared experience.
The focal point of Glendora's Donut Man is undoubtedly their signature strawberry-filled donuts, a culinary masterpiece that has garnered acclaim and a dedicated following. The commitment to using only the freshest fruits, whether it be strawberries or peaches depending on the season, sets a standard of excellence in the world of donut craftsmanship. General manager Aaron Wearp's insight into the unique dough preparation process, which involves frying at a higher temperature, demonstrates the dedication to achieving a crispy texture while minimizing oil absorption—a testament to their commitment to quality.
The narrative of Glendora's Donut Man extends beyond the donut itself; it delves into the realm of nostalgia and family experiences. The founder, Jim Nakano, is not only a legendary entrepreneur but also a survivor of internment camps during World War II, a veteran, and a self-made family man. This rich history permeates every aspect of the establishment, creating a sense of tradition and shared heritage among patrons.
The expansion of Glendora's Donut Man to DTLA's Grand Central Market is a testament to its enduring legacy and commitment to serving a wider audience. The serendipitous connection between Jim Nakano's roots in Los Angeles and the historic significance of Grand Central Market adds another layer of authenticity to the experience. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the resilience of Jim, Aaron, and their team, coupled with the overwhelming support of the community, exemplifies the indomitable spirit of this iconic establishment.
In addition to the famed strawberry-filled donuts, Glendora's Donut Man offers a diverse array of sweet options, including the sensational foot-long Tiger Tails. The establishment's adaptation to the outdoor seating trend at Grand Central Market provides patrons with the opportunity to savor their iconic L.A. treat, Al Fresco style—a testament to their ability to evolve while preserving the essence of tradition.
In conclusion, Glendora's Donut Man is not merely a donut shop; it is a cultural institution that weaves together flavors, history, and shared experiences. With a legacy dating back to 1972, this establishment continues to capture the hearts and taste buds of patrons, ensuring that each visit is a nostalgic journey and a celebration of American culinary heritage.
