Earl’s Donuts

For those individuals who have grown up amidst the donut-chain culture of such allegiant favorites as Dunkin’ Donuts and Krispy Kreme, Southern California’s donut scene may come as somewhat of a surprise. There is not a Dunkin’ Donuts within 100 miles of Los Angeles, and, in fact, donut chains in general are few and far between. What makes this area unique are the family-owned donut shops squeezed into just about every corner strip mall in this congested landscape. Although many of these shops have understandably limited their offerings to several varieties of sweet deep-fried dough, we have also encountered the occasional storefront advertising “Donuts and Ice Cream,” or the even more interesting “Donuts and Chinese Food.” The choices appear limitless.

Although there are as many independent donut shops in Southern California as there are suntans and Starbucks, not all are created equal. One bite of a chocolate-covered donut at Earl’s in Chatsworth and you will understand what we mean. Despite being covered in a decadent glaze, the donut itself is light and airy, practically begging us to eat two or three at a time. If you are lucky enough to arrive at the counter when a new batch has come out of the oven, you will surely experience a sort of donut nirvana, as entire bites seem to melt in your mouth. Even though we would pick the chocolate-covered if forced to choose, all of Earl’s donuts are delightful, whether cake or yeast, jelly-filled, glazed, or plain.

Even if you think that you only want one, you may be otherwise convinced by the friendly owner of this small store. Somehow we are always leave assured that buying a baker’s dozen was much more economical than just three or four, and we are not ones to argue when donuts are involved. We know that pastry leftovers are never a bad thing, and that we will inevitably find others with whom to share these treats.

One of the best things about Earl’s is that it is open twenty-four hours so as to satisfy sweet-tooth cravings at any time of the day or night.