Russell's Donuts
571 N Ventura Ave, Ventura, CA
Crema's Take
“This beloved Avenue neighborhood institution has earned its morning lines with genuinely excellent donuts that even picky eaters rave about—the apple fritter and buttermilk bar are standouts worth seeking out. The no-frills walk-up counter setup keeps things quick and affordable, with staff who treat every order with genuine friendliness whether you're grabbing five bags of donut holes or a hot chocolate alongside fresh pastries. It's the kind of place where locals recognize they've found something special and can't help but come back.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
I remember driving past Russell Donuts when I first moved to the Avenue neighborhood and seeing a line outside in the morning. I immediately turned around. That’s always a good sign. This is a true no-frills donut shop. Nothing fancy, just classic donuts done right, which I honestly love. You order directly at the window, making it a quick, grab-and-go type of spot. My go-to is the chocolate French cruller: light, airy, and perfectly balanced. Everything is fresh and the prices are great. The owners are friendly, efficient, and clearly know what they’re doing. They’re located on a busy street, so street parking availability really depends on the day and time, but it’s usually manageable. Their hours can vary, they sometimes stay open later or close early if they sell out (which happens for a reason). A neighborhood staple and absolutely worth stopping for if you’re in the area.
Went in the morning around 7:30am and I asked the lady working for 5 bags of donut holes. She handed me the bags and said $5. I then asked if I could add a small hot chocolate. She gave me the hot chocolate and said my new total was $13.50. I asked her how much was the hot chocolate and she said $3.50. I asked how is it $13.50 then. She said the donut holes are $10. But I told her she had just said $5 and I had bought them a couple days ago for only $1. So if you want get overcharged for donuts then this is your place to go. Lady was a little rude too when I asked her about her saying $5 before.
Our first visit and the donuts fantastic. I'm a picky donut eater and these are the best so far. Twist, Apple Fritter, Strawberry Pastry and Buttermilk Bar all were so so good. See you soon♡
Stopped to get a quick coffee and croissant this morning. Service is always friendly and fast. This is a little walk up counter on the sidewalk so there is no inside or anywhere to sit.
Really nice donuts and good customer service. Try the apple fritter. You won’t regret it. The perfect balance of tender-crisp dough and apple filling. Good prices and only $12 for a dozen box of assorted. If you’re on the avenue for Johnny’s, make sure to go visit Russell’s too.
Crema Reviews
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