Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee

Originally from Costa Mesa, this artisan chain dedicated to making “the world’s freshest doughnut” has become a key player within L.A.’s gourmet doughnut scene. Five outposts in Santa Monica, Fairfax, Manhattan Beach, Torrance and Culver City make it easy for much of the city to access these small-batch, freshly made treats in unique flavors like huckleberry, blueberry pancake and Meyer lemon. Sidecar commits to frying doughnuts throughout the day, which means you’re basically guaranteed a great product, no matter what time it is. Cake doughnut lovers will enjoy the Saigon cinnamon crumb and sprinkle-covered celebration cake, but if you’re more of a yeast-raised person, order the butter and salt, which combines luxurious brown butter with fleur de sel.