Colonial Donuts

3318 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland, CA

★★★★★4.5(1,103 Google reviews)

Crema's Take

This beloved Oakland institution has perfected the art of the classic donut with impeccable execution—their light, perfectly fried donuts emerge constantly from the oven, and specialty offerings like ube varieties prove they're not resting on decades of tradition. The genuinely welcoming staff and warm, unpretentious vibe make it feel like a neighborhood staple rather than a trendy spot, whether you're grabbing a quick pastry or settling in for a leisurely visit with family. It's the kind of place that inspires fierce loyalty, where regulars have been returning for 20 years because the donuts are simply exceptional without the hype.

What to expect

Specialty drinksFamily friendlySlow sitPastriesQuick grabTraditional drinks

Google Reviews

Kei Loves2Travel&Eat
★★★★★4 months ago

Love this donut shop! The staff is so friendly & welcoming. The variety of donuts + freshness is top notch. Highly recommend!!

Maya
★★★★★6 months ago

I stumbled into this place, not expecting much, and now have a new favorite donut spot in the bay area. These donuts are light, and perfectly fried. Left in the bag for half an hour and the paper is not soaked through with grease at all, yet the donuts are still crispy! They're not too sweet and very affordable. Definitely would recommend.

Amy Wendland
★★★★★6 months ago

The best in the Bay, maybe the world. Go here for an incredible donut without all the overpriced trendy hype. Tons of variety and always fresh! They are loading up trays straight from the oven no matter what time you go. They also have gluten free mochi donuts in multiple flavors. No misses!

Anthony Toralba
★★★★★6 months ago

The specialty ube donuts 🍩 were worth the price and tasted fresh (even in the later hours) and the person helping us behind the counter was very patient as this was our first time. There are a big selection of coffee and assorted drinks to help put the sugary treats down and I respect the owner locking up the back area to discourage loitering in the evening hours. Will definitely return when that midnight donut craving hits~ *Tip: If you want a more light and balanced flavor, go with the Glazed Cake Ube Donut. If you want robust ube flavor, go with the Crumble Cake Ube Donut

Nancy C.
★★★★★a year ago

Colonial Donuts has been an Oakland Gem since forever! 💎 One of the places in town that is a must-try! I've been coming here since high school, which was 20 years ago, the staff are super friendly and very kind. I usually get the donut holes, maple bacon, filled bars, and filled French Cruller. They are made fresh daily. They're the best donuts in town! 🍩

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