Winchell's Donut House — Restaurant in Salinas

Winchell's Donut House is my absolute go-to spot whenever I’m craving donuts because, quite simply, they have the best donuts in town. Their selection is always fresh, and the variety they offer is fantastic. From classic glazed donuts to more unique flavors, every donut I've tried there has been consistently delicious. The dough is always soft and fluffy, with the perfect amount of sweetness, and the fillings and toppings are just right, making each bite a real treat.

However, as much as I love their donuts, there's one thing that consistently detracts from the experience: the flies. Every time I visit, I notice an unsettling number of flies buzzing around the store. It’s disappointing because the quality of the donuts is top-notch, but the presence of flies makes the environment less than ideal. I understand that it can be difficult to control, especially in a place where food is constantly on display, but it’s something that really stands out and affects the overall experience.

It’s a shame because Winchell's has so much going for it—the friendly staff, the amazing donuts, and the convenient location—but the flies are a significant drawback. I still go back for the donuts because they’re that good, but I find myself wishing they would take more steps to address the issue. Maybe improved cleanliness practices or better fly control methods could make a difference.

In the end, I highly recommend Winchell's Donut House for anyone looking for delicious donuts, but be aware that the atmosphere might not be the most pleasant due to the flies. I hope they can find a way to resolve this, because without that issue, Winchell’s would easily be the best donut shop...

I ordered a cold sandwich meal plus 2 extra donuts. Thought I would keep those to eat in the morning. 🤢 I reached in the bag and to my shock the donuts were not at all what I ordered. No offense but who eats butterscotch icing on a butterscotch cream donut? Who eats this other one that’s drowning in liquid strawberry sugar? No me!! They were cold and gross. Next the sandwich. No extra meat, no mayo on the side, had onions galore but I ordered No Oinions! I ordered it toasted too.. yep no toasting! The best part for last! I went through two Uber Eats drivers because the order was taking so long!! FYI: this ordered was placed around 2030 on a Wednesday night.

I’m ashamed to say I had a previous order of 6 dozen donuts and bakery items for ER crew one very busy night and those were so good. Now never again...

The people are nice and quick. The atmosphere is sometimes sketchy, due to the homeless people hanging out around that entire shopping center, not necessarily Winchells fault.

The FOOD/DONUTS...On several occasions, the apple fritters are over cooked, leaving a burnt taste. The jelly and custard filled, are mostly empty, not filled, with just a DROP of filling, I have never gotten a donut that had more than HALF A TEASPOON, if èven that much, of jelly or custard filling. I will say, their regular donuts are fresh and tasty. Stick with the traditional ones and you shouldn't be...