Johnny Doughnuts began in 2012 as a food truck venture by founder Craig Blum, who sought to craft doughnuts using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and a touch of nostalgia. The doughnut recipes are inspired by classic 1920s techniques, incorporating fresh potatoes to achieve a unique texture. The business quickly gained popularity, leading to the opening of its first brick-and-mortar location in San Rafael in 2013.
Over the years, Johnny Doughnuts expanded its presence in the Bay Area. In addition to the San Rafael flagship, the company operates locations in Larkspur at the Marin Country Mart and in Santa Rosa on Fourth Street . The Pacific Heights location in San Francisco opened on October 29, 2022, at 2404 California Street, taking over the former Smitten Ice Cream space.
Johnny Doughnuts has garnered attention from various celebrities and media outlets. Notably, the brand was featured in the film “Roman J. Israel, Esq.,” starring Denzel Washington. For the movie, the filmmakers brought a Johnny Doughnuts food truck to Los Angeles, and a special maple-turkey bacon doughnut was created to accommodate Washington’s dietary preferences.
The company’s commitment to quality and community has earned it a loyal following. Fans appreciate the handcrafted nature of the doughnuts, the use of organic and locally sourced ingredients, and the welcoming atmosphere of each location. With its continued growth and dedication to excellence, Johnny Doughnuts remains a beloved fixture in the Bay Area’s culinary scene.
