Barrio Donas - Old Town

Barrio Donas - Old Town

Reviews Summary

Barrio Donas receives mixed but generally positive feedback, with most praise focused on their unique, flavorful donuts—particularly the Mexican-inspired varieties like Horchata, Chocolate Abuelita, and Strawberry Jamaica. Many highlight the donuts' freshness, soft texture, and creative toppings. However, service quality is inconsistent, with several complaints about rude or absent staff. Some reviewers mention limited availability (selling out early) and parking difficulties. While the donuts often earn 5-star ratings, poor customer service or operational issues (unattended counters, closures) occasionally drag scores down to 1-3 stars. The Horchata drink is frequently recommended.

About This Listing

Who Can Visit?

Most donut shops welcome all ages—perfect for families and kids
Some locations offer sit-down areas, while others are grab-and-go
No prior ordering knowledge needed—staff can help you choose flavors
Casual dress is welcome—some shops may have outdoor seating
Allergy-friendly options may be available (ask in advance)
Group orders and celebrations welcome—pre-orders may be required

*Note: Seating, menu, and accessibility may vary by shop. Contact your local spot for details.*

First-Time Visitors

First-time guests can simply walk in and browse the display or menu. Staff are happy to offer recommendations and explain specialty flavors. Some shops even offer sample bites or combo deals for newcomers.

Common Considerations:

Allergens Some donuts may contain nuts, dairy, or gluten—always ask if unsure
Availability Popular flavors can sell out early, especially on weekends

*Note: Menus and specials may vary. Ask staff or check online for daily options.*

What to Bring

Cash or card—most donut shops accept both, but some are cashless
Phone or camera—perfect for snapping and sharing your sweet finds
Appetite! Fresh donuts are best enjoyed warm and on the spot

*Note: Payment methods and policies vary by location. Check signage or ask staff.*

Preparing for Your Visit

Check store hours and peak times—early visits offer the best selection
Call ahead for large orders or special boxes
Bring friends or coworkers—sharing a dozen is half the fun
Dress casually—many shops are walk-up counters or offer outdoor seating
Leave pets at home unless it’s a pet-friendly location
Check for limited-time flavors, holidays specials, or preorder events
Set a treat budget if you’re shopping with kids
Bring a reusable bag or box if buying in bulk

*Note: Each shop may offer different experiences—check social media for updates.*

How to Get Started

Most shops accept walk-ins! For custom orders, pre-ordering is best. Ask about gift boxes or subscription options.

Other Helpful Info

Visits usually take 10–30 minutes, unless you're sitting down to enjoy
Weekends can be busier—plan ahead for quicker service
Seasonal or limited-edition donuts often rotate monthly
Some locations offer donut decorating kits or workshops
Gift cards, boxes, and party platters are often available

*Note: Features, pricing, and offerings vary by donut shop. Always check ahead.*

Contact Information

Address

2548 Congress St

San Diego, California 92110

Hours

Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 10AM-4PM
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 10AM-4PM
Friday 9AM-5PM
Saturday 9AM-5PM
Sunday 9AM-5PM

Customer Reviews

Barrio Donas never disappoints, but their Classic Horchata and Reese?s Mazap?n Donut absolutely blew me away! The Classic Horchata is pure, creamy perfection?just the right balance of sweetness and cinnamon, with that smooth, refreshing finish that makes every sip addicting. It?s rich without being heavy and perfectly captures the authentic taste of traditional Mexican horchata. If you love horchata, this one is a must-try! And then there?s the Reese?s Mazap?n Donut?WOW. A genius fusion of flavors, this d

The server was very friendly. The Horchata was very tasty. But ask for it with no ice as they cheat and fill the cup with ice. At 5.75 that is not cheap No Gluten free at this location for donuts.

I've been to the Barrio Donas Old Town location several times and absolutely love their donuts--my favorite is the Chocolate Abuelita, which I get every time. It's a charming little donut shop located in a small plaza with other eateries, making it a convenient spot to grab more food. I especially enjoy stopping by Elote Old Town next door for a bite. That said, I'm giving this place 3 stars because of the consistently unfriendly service. Every time I visit, the cashier seems to be in a bad mood, which mak

Literally the BEST donuts I have ever had in my life! I tried the one with strawberry/hibiscus flavor. And one with lemon as well. It was DELICIOUS!!! I wish they have locations in the mid and east of the US. Lots of different flavors of Horchata as well, I had a large regular flavored one, it was the best I?ve had in a long time! Definitely recommend going here! Such a cute place, and not super expensive either! If you?re in Old town this is a must visit!

AMAZING. DELICIOUS. THE ABSOLUTE BEST DONUTS or DONAS EVER! Wow, we tried the Ferrero, De La Rosa and Horchata. All 3 were the best 3 donuts we've ever tasted! I can eat these everyday! The donas are just how I like them... thick, fluffy and soft topped with the best flavors IE mazapan, Nutella and oh that horchata was surprisingly absolutely GREAT! @food_explore_travel_adventure

Barrio Donas has two locations; Old Town and Clairemont. The shop is Mexican-inspired and combines them with American and Mexican flavors. The shops menu features Concha & glaze, Churro, Mazapan, Mole, Payaso, breakfastand delicious cafe de la olla. My kids loved the payaso donuts because of its identical look to the Payaso Chocolate paleta. The tasty donuts are mouthwatering and a delicious flavorful dessert. ?? 2548 Congress St. (inside the Urban Market) Free nearby parking

Mouth watering deliciousness! I suggest going early because they do sell out. My favorite is the Strawberry Jamaica donut, but have now tried most of them and every single one is recommended. My husband tried the cold brew horchata today and he said definitely try if you like coffee and horchata.

Barrio Donas is a must-visit for unique, Mexican-inspired donuts. My favorites? The La Flor donut, a floral sweet PB&J delight; the Ganzito donut, a fun twist on the classic Gansito snack with rich chocolate and cream filling; and the Guava Maria donut, packed with delicious guava and topped with a creamy glaze. Each bite is soft, fresh, and full of flavor. Pair them with their famous horchata for the perfect treat!

Cute and fun donut shop with unique Mexican flavors. The donuts themselves are super soft. Loved the horchata and strawberry jamaica flavors.

Super cute donut shop, unique flavors. Guava was amazing. Payaso ok. Mi Rey also delicious. Also has good spicy tamales. Limited seating. Thank you!

This Horchata is very very good! It?s so smooth and creamy and the flavor is on point. Donuts were delicious and they had such unique flavors.

Oh my goodness!! I wish I could rate more stars!!!! BEST donuts I?ve had!!!! My favorite was the cajeta donut, while my boyfriend loved the horchata dona. MUST VISIT!!! ????????????

sooo delicious! soft bread not way too sweet but i dreamt of a glass of milk with it lol ?? but i couldn?t wait ?til i get home, so i ate the donut outside on their table?. EXCELLENT DEFINITELY RECOMMEND

Located inside the food hall in old town, barrio Donas has horchata on tap and plenty of fresh donut flavors to choose from. Their horchata cold brew was to die for and the guava donut was so pillowy soft. Amazing

Tried going to this shop. Found it and there were a few donuts in the case. Stood by the entrance and waited, waited, waited for about 5 minutes and no worker ever showed up. It was really odd. There were workers in the other food stands in the court, but barrio Donas was totally unattended. Ended up leaving since a worker never showed up.

These donuts are delicious. If you are looking for plain donuts this is not the place to come to. The place is a little hidden and the only reason I don't give it 5 stars is because parking is very hard to find.

A stroll in the Old town took me by surprise to this amazing place. I was planning on buying the cajeta one but as soon as I saw the strawberry Jamaica one, I knew that it was the right for me. What a delicious donut. Perfect balance of flavors. This place is a must.

I?m not usually a donut person but decided to try a Mexican version for a change, specially the mazapan- wow! Delicious as all the other reviews mention here. Would recommend stopping by if you?re in the area and eating at this food hall.

I got to Old Town early hoping to try some of Barrio Donas vegan donuts, but they don't have them at this location. That was a real bummer.

Delicious and great variety of flavors!

Super yummy flavor selections and in such a fun area. The coffee with horchata instead of regular milk is a must!

My daughter and wife yell at me for not buying them donuts from here.

I was there today and costumer service of the girl was horrible when I ask her for a flavor she replied very rude and not giving eye contact either if you having this business first of all is costumer service small business ok im not supporting this one . 215 pm today February

The establishment could have received a 5-star rating; however, the employee's impolite demeanor and apparent irritation when answering our inquiries regarding the donuts diminished the overall experience. Despite this, the donuts were well-received and enjoyed by my family.

Fresh doughnuts and coffee! A very nice place, managed by very nice people.

I think we came on an off day, because the service was horrible. It was our first time, and the girl working there looked terribly miserable. I felt like interacting with her was like talking to a zombie, and I don't say that lightly. Maybe she was going through something, or maybe she just hates her job idk. Anyways, the donuts were the best I ever had, which is why this review averages out to a 3 instead of a 1. I'd come back to try again, but we were left with a bad impression.

AMAZING! I loved their unique donuts, coffee, and service. Also does not ask for a tip which I like!

Stop at Barrio Dona's, didn't know which ones to pick,THEY only had 6 flavors.... we bought: Horchata, Limon limoncillo(I think that was the name)cajeta, Mexican Vanilla and chocolate abuelita. The donuts were scrumptious . We haven't tasted the vanilla or cajeta but I am sure they will be delicious too. My favorite was the Horchata and chocolate abuelita. Highly recommend they are not your regular donuts

So soft, best donuts I've ever had in my life. Came from out of state too! Fun little atmosphere with the murals & market-like feel. Very cute and welcoming place.

Pulled up early like 9:30 / 10 no one working barely any donuts empty store and couldn't find an employee I waited 20 minutes and no one showed up I finally saw the donut lady talking to someone outside the location

I have already tried the donuts from the other location, they are just as delicious and I think this cute little addition to OT has exclusive flavors. Muy recomendado!

Amazing raised donuts!

Mole donut and horchata with de olla coffee ???? first time trying the OT location, delicioso! Service 10/10

Love them ?? great flavors! Just make sure you go early cause they will sell out!

Tried multiple flavors and all were amazing! The mole woooo!

They don?t operate by their hours posted they will close whenever they want

Light fluffy donut. Decadent toppings. Great service.

Really amazing donuts, when we got there, not much variety was left

I love the strawberry con cremes horchata!! It?s a must to go here

Very classic, very delicious. Service was great.

Didnt have any issues. Was served right away.

Unique flavors and some of the best donuts anywhere

Closed during Google Maps open hours....

Best dounats you will ever going to try

Yum yum yum! Delicious drinks and donuts!

The donuts are good and good service

There donuts are so delicious

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Many do! Listings include details on delivery partners, online ordering, and whether you can reserve boxes for pickup—perfect for gifts or events.

I want to send donuts as a gift. Can I do that here?

Sorry, but we don't support this yet! But we are considering adding this option!

What are “limited-time” or seasonal flavors?

These are exclusive donuts offered for holidays or specific times of year—like pumpkin spice in the fall or strawberry shortcake in summer. Check back often—they go fast!

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Not at all. We’re expanding constantly, including small towns, roadside bakeries, and regional favorites. Sweetness knows no bounds.

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