VooDoo Doughnut, the eccentric doughnut chain hailing from Portland, Oregon, has unexpectedly closed its Venice Beach location after a mere year of operation, leaving a notable gap in the local late-night culinary scene. The shop, situated at 66 Windward Avenue, ceased functioning around June 2026, although the company’s website still features the location. Notably, the phone line has been disconnected, signaling a definitive end to this venture.
This closure has taken many locals by surprise, particularly those who had come to enjoy the shop’s whimsical offerings, such as the iconic VooDoo Doll doughnut and the beloved Bacon Maple Bar. When VooDoo Doughnut opened its doors in Venice in June 2025, it quickly became a hotspot for both tourists and night owls, drawn in by the promise of unique and extravagant flavors. However, just one year later, the store’s closure marks a swift and unforeseen exit from the vibrant beach enclave.
Venice represented a significant step in VooDoo Doughnut’s expansion, following its first California location at Universal CityWalk Hollywood, which opened in 2017. The brand’s foray into the Los Angeles market was met with high expectations, yet the Venice location’s abrupt shuttering raises questions about the viability of such niche culinary establishments in high-rent areas.
Social media has been abuzz with reactions from disappointed customers, many speculating about the reasons behind the closure. Some pointed to the high cost of rent in Venice, which has become a notorious challenge for many small businesses. As one user noted, “I’m not surprised there’s not a huge demand for donuts in Venice,” reflecting sentiments that suggest local preferences might not align with the sugary indulgences VooDoo is known for. Another comment echoed broader concerns about retail vacancies in the area, attributing them to corporate greed and the increasing dominance of large chains that can afford the steep rents.
The economic climate in Venice is indeed challenging. According to recent studies, the gentrification of coastal areas has pushed rents to unsustainable levels, making it difficult for unique, smaller operations to thrive. This trend raises pertinent questions about the future of local businesses in such environments and highlights the need for discussions around rent control measures to support small enterprises.
As of now, VooDoo Doughnut has not issued an official statement regarding the closure or its future plans in West Los Angeles. The lack of communication has left many in the community speculating about the brand’s next steps and whether it will seek to establish a presence elsewhere in the area.
In conclusion, while VooDoo Doughnut continues to flourish in its original Portland location and other parts of the United States, the Venice closure serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities facing niche food brands in high-demand markets. The intersection of local tastes, economic pressures, and the realities of operating in prime real estate will undoubtedly influence the future strategies of similar establishments looking to capture the hearts—and appetites—of customers in dynamic cities like Los Angeles.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research
