Primo’s Donuts needs to keep up with competition

★★★☆☆

Just a few weeks ago, I decided to visit one of the classics: Primo’s Donuts. Hailed “The Best in LA Since 1956” by Food & Wine Magazine, Primo’s is known for its traditional, hometown donut shop feel. It is located in a rather random area in Westdale that you could easily drive past if you’re not looking closely, but locals who know Primo’s know where it is and that it’s the place to go for an affordable and convenient donut fix.

The shop is really small, but the selection was definitely large! I noticed that they had a lot of cinnamon rolls so I’m assuming it’s one of their trademarks. Usually when I’m visiting a new place, I like to try the most popular option because it must be popular for a reason. That said, the first donut I ordered was the Cinnamon Butterfly — which is their signature flavor. I was satisfied with the taste and can see why it’s a pleasant, comforting choice to order as a frequent visitor, but I personally did not find anything extraordinary about it.

I visited Primo’s just a few days before Super Bowl 50, so they were selling “Super Bowl Super Jellies” — donuts in the shape of a football. I really appreciate seasonal flavors, especially if they’re decorated to match a theme or a holiday, so I’d like to give Primo’s Donuts a gold star for creativity! This was also my favorite donut on this trip because of the jelly filling. Over time — after you’ve been eating so many donuts — you begin to notice the small variances in jelly sweetness, and I have to say, this donut had a sweetness factor that was spot on!

And finally, because this is a classic donut place, I ordered one of their classic cake donuts with chocolate frosting. I thought the dough was a bit dry, but it seemed to work out and was a nice version of the traditional cake donut.

Overall, I would recommend trying Primo’s Donuts only if you are in the area or if you’re touring several places in LA for donuts. Though they proudly display their recognition as “The Best in LA since 1956,” it’s been a long time since they opened, and during that time, many new and trendy places have been established throughout L.A. To keep their title, they’re going to have to step up their game, because — as I’ve become aware through my L.A. donut adventures — there is some serious competition out there!

Primo’s Donuts is open Mondays through Fridays from 5:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Sundays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 2918 Sawtelle Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90064.

Paulina Ordaz is a freshman majoring in psychology. Her blog column, Donut Worry, Be Happy, runs every other Thursday.