The small donut shop in a nice plaza. I've come here a few times, and I've never been disappointed when coming here. All the donuts I've tried from here were super good (fluffy and sweet goodness)! They were never dry, and they had the right amount of glaze, filling, etc. My favorite go far has to be the blueberry donuts. I love all donuts, but occasionally, I'll have a cake donut kick, and blueberry donuts are the way to go! To top it all over, their service is nice! The last time I went was about a week ago, and my voice can get muffled when I have my mask on. With the barrier they have in the store plus the mask over my face, I'm sure it was not the easiest to understand everything I was saying, but the person working there was super patient with me! I love coming here and I try to come here as much as I can when I want donuts. Highly recommend! read more

I've been going to Sam's for years! The donuts I've purchased are always fresh and tasty. The service is quick, even when busy. Things have changed over the years (original owners retired I think), but I still continue to come for their donuts! read more

Best donuts in San Jose, my favorite are the glazed twist donuts, always fresh fluffy not greasy. I wish DoorDash would add them back to their vendor list. read more

Got two mixed doughnut boxes for my hubby's office team. Each box has 12 doughnuts. They really liked the doughnuts. Thumbs up for the doughnuts. I would recommend this place for breakfast too. They have breakfast options for lower prices compared to any other food place around. One of the schools is close by, so I believe it is to attract the school kids. There is a queue in the morning generally. They open at around 4.30AM, so if you want to grab breakfast early, this is an awesome option. There is Starbucks close by. Nothing charges me up than coffee and a yummy bagel, you know! Price: Price might be slightly higher than other doughnut franchise store close by, but that's ok, because these are fresh. Thanks for reading my review :) read more

I've given this donut shop three tries now. Each time I've gone in I'm dealt with rude behavior and as if their annoyed that customers are even coming in. I also find it weird how they try to stuff all these donuts in one bag instead of using a box. By the time you get home all the donuts are smashed into each other. So this time I kindly asked for a box and they got annoyed right now. They also are very inconsistent with what customer they provide donut holes to and which they don't. The donuts are good but sometimes I can tell they aren't as fresh...do yourself a favor and go to Maple Leaf Donuts in Almaden. The best donuts and amazing customer service!!!! Not coming here anymore. read more

If you have a food allergy don't eat at Sam's donuts. Despite being told that the donuts did not contain any tree nuts, they did they almost killed me. When I called Management to explain what it happened they hung up on me. No apology no explanation no nothing. No more Sam's donuts for me or anyone that I talk to. There are the donuts that could kill you. Apparently the restaurant has no idea how much customers depend on them to honestly disclose all ingredients in their Products. However those allergies are deadly and two EpiPen's, two Benadryl and a prednisone tablet literally saved my life last night after consuming a doughnut that apparently had tree nuts in the icing. Very disappointing read more

Ownership has changed since my original review. The donuts are still good but not amazing. The focus has shifted to breakfast sandwiches.

the world according to noelle, 2013 noelle's yelp notebook ----------------------- the quick details ----------------------- business: donuts parking:parking lot price: good customer service: good stroller friendly: yes restroom: none family friendly: yes noelle's favorites: cinnamon crumb and blueberry donut *This would have been a five star review but they don't accept ATM cards* *CASH ONLY* Thanks to fellow Yelper Beth W. who recommended Sam's Donuts to me. Sam's Donuts is located in the Nob Hill Shopping Center (when facing Nob Hill, the donut shop is located on the right hand side). Bought the following donuts: Cinnamon Crumb Chocolate frosted Cruller Original Glazed Sugar Raised Chocolate Cake Old Fashioned Glazed Cake Donut with Chocolate Frosting and Sprinkles Old Fashioned Chocolate Frosted Blueberry Donuts Apple Fritter I purchased one dozen for my husband's co-workers and six donuts for my family, the total came out to a little over $15 dollars - I was charged extra for the Apple Fritter. The better deal would have been to purchase two dozen for $16 or $17 dollars but we didn't need 6 extra donuts for my family. The donut shop is cozy yet stroller friendly if you needed to push a stroller inside. Its clean and smells of delicious and fresh donuts. Service is fast and friendly- on my first visit Helen the owner helped me. The donuts are AMAZINGLY fresh and delicious (better than another donut shop in the heart of Willow Glen used to be 25 years ago, but its not that great anymore). Their blueberry donuts taste better than that famous place that's known for blueberry donuts in Southern, California (that must go unnamed according to Yelp TOS). Next time I'll try their filled donuts as they are supposed to be delish :) It may not be close to my home but its definitely worth waking up early and grabbing deep fried goodness!!! read more

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The donuts are always fresh, and the staff is so friendly. My go to donut is a filled chocolate bar, but all of their donuts are amazing. They have a wide selection to choose from, and they usually always add free donut balls with my purchase. Highly recommend! read more

Whenever I read about the apple fritters at Bob's Donuts in San Francisco or Ronald's Donuts in Las Vegas, I get an apple fritter craving. I've been searching for a note-worthy apple fritter locally but been largely disappointed -- large, oversize, doughy, and flavorless seem to be the donut norm. Luckily fellow Yelper Beth W. shared a tip that I should check out Sam's Donuts. After a similar excellent rec about the fresh original glazed at Stan's, I knew I should check it out. The hours of Sam's are typical donut shop hours, eg. open breaking dawn early (in this case 4:10 am) and closing early afternoon (2:00 pm most days). After a missed try, I came early enough to partake. A friendly Asian couple owns Sam's and they were happy to recommend the apple fritter. Other popular donuts are the cinnamon crumb and blueberry, all made fresh daily. Apple Fritter - first take looks promising. Instead of oversized and full of donut filler, this fritter is large but overall flat. Several nice chunks of apple are visible and it maximizes the flavorful, crunchy glazed exterior to soft interior ratio. Given the cinnamon donut is popular, I wasn't surprised this fritter had great flavor too and the fact it's fresh makes a difference. The dough is soft yet moist and the apple tasted particularly good. If I had one criticism (and it's almost universal to every fritter I've had and I haven't had Bob's or Ronald's) is that I would have loved to have more apple. I could have done with twice or even three times as much apple. Most places don't do that and apples aren't particularly pricey so maybe it's something to do with baking and making donuts that I'm clueless. Overall, at $1.50 for an apple fritter, Sam's makes a tasty, fresh, and enjoyable apple fritter...just put more apple. Thanks Beth W. for the great tip! Sam's accepts cash only. read more

Sam's Donuts - Apple Fritter - Donuts Near Me - San Jose, California

Sam's Donuts is easy to miss, literally an hole in the wall. luckily i had the street address. rent no doubt pricey in this nob hill supermart commercial space. menu: donuts, farmers coffee, didn't see sammies. eats: french crueller (.99?) -very sweet, texture almost firm. glazed (.98) -doughy, sweet, not melt in mouth texture above average donuts. 3.5 stars too sweet.. crumbs: -quick, courteous service. read more

Messed up my order 3 out of the last 4 times. Once, she was on the phone and ignored what I wanted and gave me something that I'm allergic to (I asked for raspberry filled and she gave me lemon filled. I'm allergic to citrus.) Today, she blatantly gave me what I did not want. I pointed to and I watched her put aside the first of two donuts that I wanted and in the bag, she does a bait and switch. I noticed it when I got home. There was nobody else in the store so she's just really inconsiderate and rude. Not worth the money and patronage. Go to Bernal Bagel and Donuts instead. They're delicious and listen to what you want. read more

Hands down the best, freshest donuts in this area. I've lived in South San Jose for 20+ years. It's very obvious that they are doing something right because they withstand the test of time in the Santa Teresa Plaza. One of my best memories growing up was walking/riding bikes to Sams Sunday mornings with my brother and my dad. They have always had fresh, great tasting donuts ever since I could remember. I always get the chocolate donut or any of the old fashioned ones. But honestly, everything they have is great! Now that I'm older and have experienced other mom & pop donut shops, I still find myself going here for my donut fix. I highly recommend everyone go to Sams! They do only take cash (looks like another person gave them a 1 star for their atm fee... but then again, doesn't every non-bank atm have a fee lol...) so make sure you have cash on you. read more

Sam's Donuts - Freshly baked chocolate custard bar and old fashioned maple. AMAZING! - Donuts Near Me - San Jose, California

I delayed in writing this post 24 hrs because I debated on posting. Last Tuesday we had made a stop for donuts a little before 7:30 am. There were no Apple fritters or French Crullers. We were told that these specially donuts are made for the weekends. We then bought some regular glazed along with some donut holes. There were no fritters and we bought the last 2 snails in the case. I made a visit on Saturday a little before 8 am and waited my turn. I saw that they had 2 French Crullers, a chocolate and a vanilla. When I finally made it to the front, I asked if the had more French Crullers and was told no. I was frustrated as it's 8 am on Saturday and the specialty donut was not available as previously told. We have been going to Sam's for yrs for our donuts. We would be able to buy our favorite dozen donuts. Since my last review, I can say the quality of the donut is still present but we have had to alter our choices in what to purchase. The specialty donuts seem to be only made on the weekends in a limited quantity. When we do purchase donuts we are there no later then 8 am and seem to have to alter our choices. read more

I normally don't like to write negative reviews especially during this pandemic time when everyone is trying to work hard and make an honest living, but.... So I go here sometimes early in the mornings (because it's near my house) to pick up donut holes and sometimes a croissant sandwich. Every morning the lady there would always be on the phone. I usually don't care as long as they provide adequate service, I get my order, and be on my way. But because she's always talking on the phone, she can't hear my order correctly. I repeat a couple of times and yet she still gets it wrong. I ask for a croissant sandwich and she gives me bagel. I said I only want mayonnaise and lettuce in the sandwich and she also puts in onion & tomato (all this time while talking on the phone). It's really irritating. I may need to look for another place to go get my donuts and breakfast sandwich from now on. read more

Stopped by Sam's early morning around 6AM to grab some donuts before work. I never get donuts here because I don't even live in this area! I was actually dogsitting for a friend, and decided to see what locals loved about this place. It's a warm and small shop in the Nob Hill plaza. I got four donuts for $4 no tax or anything, and I loved the old-fashioned I got. I also had a bite of the chocolate crueller which was delicious as well. I think their donuts are delicious and freshly made. However, it wasn't teeming with selections like how it is at my hometown favorite, Happy Donuts. I'd still say that Sam's is well worth a visit if you happen to be in the area, but donuts are donuts. And Sam's is just as soul-loving. Also, when I visited early that morning, there was also a table full of cute old men talking about whatever it is that cute old men talk about. It was adorable. PRO TIP: CASH ONLY no cards accepted, but they do have an ATM inside. read more

Wow my co-worker brought donuts this morning to work like usual and I usually don't eat them because there not that good you know from all the other places. Well I decided to taste one OMG booooooooom,pow,bang my taste buds where on fire donuts with a smile went got two more . I'm differently stopping by this place for more are next meeting is going to be with a smile read more

Sam's has finally taken hold under the new management. Friendly and welcoming with a great sandwich menu. Of course I'm still am old fashioned chocolate donut fan. A good, neighborhood place to patronize. Mark it up to four stars! read more

Ordered a BLT croissant based on a very abundantly stuffed bacon version displayed on their menu. Sadly I received a sad amount in my croissantwich. Looks like they chopped up 2 pieces of bacon and sprinkled it in (menu showed at least 10 peices). Won't be ordering anything that requires meat from here again- skimping is not cool! read more

Sam's Donuts - Donuts Near Me - San Jose, California

The best doughnut in Sam's has got to be the cruller - soft on the outside, delicate on the inside, not sweet, and just about melts in your mouth. I think the last time I just bought a dozen of these. read more

After being a long faithful customer I will never go back to Sam's donuts today I was disgusted to find a fly baked into my donut, I really hope they get there business back in shape!!!! read more

Sam's Donuts - Donuts Near Me - San Jose, California

Great donuts! Nice selection. I ordered a couple of custard filled ones and she grabbed a couple bars and filled them up right in front to me, talk about fresh! She also gave me a big crumb topped one free to make it a bakers dozen! The quality of the donut and the great service will keep me coming back. read more

The BEST donut shop I have found in the San Jose area. I enjoy a good donut with an excellent cup of coffee. Unfortunately, most shops have poor coffee, greasy donuts and overall a fairly dirty appearance, which I have noted on other reviews of shops I have visited. However, this shop is clean, fresh ground coffee with cold Half and Half creamer (kept in refrigerator and given to you on request). The donut is not greasy, excellent taste, and overall not as sweet as others I have tried. It is family owned and operated (Sam and Helen) and is open 365 days a year including holidays. Sam creates these masterpieces every night by himself to ensure product quality. He uses honey on some of the glaze, rather than sugar, which really gives a great flavor and taste. The recipe of these donuts are a bit different in taste as compared to other shops, which has been refined by Sam and Helen over the years of operation. Extremely customer focused with a great attitude toward the patron who visits. I read the other reviews and yes, some of the donuts are a bit different than others I have tasted, although I actually like their blueberry donut. The signature donuts are the Maple Frosted Cinnamon Rolls and Almond Ring Donut. Advise you get there early as they normally sell out by 10 AM (Open till 2 PM). Cash Only but there is an ATM on premises. read more

As far as mom-and-pop doughnut shops go, this is one of the best I've ever had. Here's the deal...Nothing frozen, shipped-in or overly-packaged. Sam starts in the middle of the night, every night, and sells the freshest, tastiest doughnuts nearby. For me, the glazed buttermilk doughnuts are (hands down) SUPER YUMMY. But, beware that they sell out of this gem. You need to get there early to get them, because they're so good. Cash only (keeps the costs down). Would love a slightly larger variety (perhaps berry filled, etc). With their experience and craftsmanship, I think they're up for the challenge. Exactly what you'd expect from a small, local doughnut shop. Reasonable cost for a fantastic doughnut. read more

Sam's Donuts - Doughnut holes from Sam's Doughnuts in San Jose, CA - Donuts Near Me - San Jose, California

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I'm soooo sad about Sam's Donuts! I've been going here for years, and their donuts are simply wonderful. The reason for this one-star review is because I put in a very large order for my daughter's birthday party over the phone for cake donuts with pink frosting and sprinkles. I specified 6-7 times that they needed to be pink. The man on the phone repeated the other parts of my order and every time I said pink, he said yeah yeah. When my husband went to pick up the donuts, they were all white! The man first tried to claim that I never said pink frosting. Then my husband said that I definitely specified pink, the man said that they don't even have pink frosting. I feel so played by this shop. They don't even have pink frosting and intentionally took my order anyway. They said they would make a new order of donuts quickly of regular glazed donuts with pink sprinkles. We went ahead and did that but said we wanted a discount because that wasn't what we ordered. They said no discount because we were getting better donuts for the same price - but not even close to what I ordered. This was such a poor transaction that they did not handle well. read more

Stopped in today, saw the apple fritters and got one. I haven't had an apple fritter in some time. When I got home I had the chance to look at it closer= No Sign of any apple pieces. So I pulled it apart looking for even a sliver of apple= None. None. None. Cost cutting is one thing but I'll go somewhere else next time. read more

Great donuts, great service. Nothing like a fresh glazed donut! They take credit cards, too. I'm attaching photos of the menu, etc. read more

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We always go here to satisfy our donut cravings. Thank you Liem. Walking distance from my house.

Customer service not very good, very push, trying to get rid of you , I asked can you put the donuts in separate bags there like next time I will give you the bag, you can separate them. read more

A coworker just came in with these donuts (It's 10:30am and our office is a half an hour away) and everyone at the office went crazy. He bought the classic glazed donuts and they were warm and soft and fluffy. SO ridiculously good that a couple of my coworkers -- who were faithfully following the keto diet prior -- decided to have a cheat day! SO delicious when picked up while fresh! Yum! read more

Dear Yelp Journal, I have been coming to this establishment with my dad for years! The business is family owned, and they know my dad, by name. They are personable, friendly, and they have a huge selection of freshly made doughnuts, croissant sandwiches, and pastries. My dad would always grab a bag of doughnut holes for my siblings and I on the weekends. My personal favorites are the crullers, the Apple Fritter, and the old fashioned maple flavored doughnuts. If you're looking for high quality doughnuts, and great service then stop by here before your morning commute. It's also convenient to grab a dozen or more for those morning meetings with your staff or even a morning potluck. Everything I have tried has always been delicious and freshly made. But, don't take my word for it, stop by and try one today! Cheers, Sweet Tooth Satisfied read more

Consistently the freshest, best tasting donuts around!

Sam's popped up in my filter of nearby reviews and I kept seeing 5-star after 5-star... when that happens in your hood, it's time to check it out. To me, donuts are pretty hard to mess up - they are about average at the absolute worst, but can also be made to perfection. I visited Sam's twice this week to see what the fuss was all about... In two visits, I tried: Apple Fritter, Maple Bar, Crumb Cake, Jelly. As most reviews have already said, the inside is very soft and fluffy - both times tasted incredibly fresh. The service was friendly and fast, and I left happy. The fritter was the best of the four, while the crumb was the most ordinary. But all were good to excellent. However, not sure I'll go as far as giving it a five. Fives are reserved for places that knock my socks off - and while Sam gave me a good foot rub - I did in fact leave with my socks still on. 4.25 stars. read more

YUMMMMY!!!! I love donuts, especially from Sam's! They have a great selection of donuts, but my go to favorite is the sugar coated one. A testament to quality: My friend brought us some donuts that we scarfed down late in the afternoon (she picked them up early that morning) and they were still super soft and delicious. Sam's is the place to go when that donut craving hits! read more

Seriously the best donut in town!! Love the chocolate donuts. The staff are always kind and generous.

Sam's donuts is a land of sweets and joy and joyness, and sugary goodness. Their donuts are consistent year round. Sometimes they even throw in a few for free. That's the best! Great service, great donuts! Oh and if you're lucky, there's this cute little Asian girl that works there. Any single guys?!? haha read more

Great donuts, great owners :) Been coming here for 15 years! I got a dozen the other day and they threw in 2 free ones! Two!! I love how their selection is very basic, none of the fancy shmancy bacon-maple-oreo-cereal topped stuff out there (not that it's bad, but not always what I want). I love their buttermilk old fashioned. read more

Recently I had visited and as I went the guy was in back washing dishes he didn't notice me at counter. And he spit on the dishes he was washing read more

Came here because I saw the other 5 star reviews.. Awesome donuts Excellent service - friendly and courteous Clean place to hang Another 5 stars on the board! read more

Sam, Helen and the rest of the family really are a great example of customer service. They make every customer feel so welcomed to their business and make GREAT donuts! If I could eat their donut holes all day...everyday...I would! Thank you for being part of our community! read more