The Balboa Peninsula is a neighborhood of the city of Newport Beach, Orange County, California.This community has been the home to, Lauren Bacall, James Cagney, Joey Bishop, Humphrey Bogart, George Burns, Buddy Ebsen, Shirley Temple and John Wayne. Some very famous people I would say. In the heart of Balboa, is Dads Donut & Bakery Shop. It stands as a beacon of delight, drawing both locals and tourists alike with its irresistible charm and delectable treats. What truly sets Dad's Donut & Bakery Shop apart, is its commitment to quality. In the County of Orange in southern California, this place is known for it famous Balboa Bar. Dad's doesnt have the only "Balboa Bar", but its really GOOD. What is a Balboa Bar. This is my explanation. An ice cream bar dipped in chocolate then coated with many choices of toppings. Simple, Maybe. But its an Orange county tradition. Its like Champagne can only be botlled in the champagne region of France.
Whether you're a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, Dad's is more than just an ice cream shop—it's a destination, a tradition, and a cherished part of Balboa. With each visit, you're not just treating yourself to a scoop of ice cream—you're creating memories that will last a lifetime. P.S. Its not the only shop that has a Balboa bar. Come to Balboa and...
Read moreDad's donut and bakery is most well known for its small scale "rivalry" with Sugar and Spice, the only other banana stand on Balboa Island, located not 20 meters away. While I've never actually taken the time to look up which was the original, I think it's safe to say at this point it does not matter - both are good, and as a local the only determining factor in the one I choose is the length of line. Both frozen bananas and balboa bars taste the same, and the cost is practically the same (with dad's being slightly cheaper). Dad's is also famous for its "hippo cookies" - frosted sugar cookies with m&m eyes - and it's donuts, so you can stop here for breakfast. They also have a greater selection of ice cream than S&S, but it is much more expensive. Parking on the island during peak tourist season and holidays is always limited, so prepare to park away from main street and take a short walk...
Read moreI was very saddened with to my visit to "dad's". My ice cream had fallen upon the floor, and I was rejected of a much deserved refund! I've never been more disappointed in my life. I angy. Angyier than words can describe, yet I will still try to describe this feeling of despair. I feel like I have walked into a never ending abyss of darkness!!! This absolute hell hole of a cash grab stole my overpriced raspberry ice cream!!!! I will never regain these wasted moments of my life, I now have PTSD and will never recover nor will I be able to consume ice cream ever again.Thank you for nothing. I've been robbed of my money and deprived of my innocence. I pray for this landmark, and hope that God forgives their sins. This is beyond my belief, and leave this donut shop's fate in the hands of...
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