Jelly Donut

I think my hopes were too high since most locals speak so highly of this establishment. It’s not bad. Very average. The donuts are WAY better than the pho. Wasn’t impressed with the pho at all actually. Lacked flavor. I’d recommend only going for the donuts

For being the only pho spot in 29, it’s actually really good and we look forward to bowls when the weather is right. The buns they use for their bahn mi’s are a little weird but still work somehow. Donuts are great too if you catch em before they sell out. Cash only in here with an ATM inside.

Pretty good pho. They have a vegan friendly pho that’s served with veggie broth. For those avoiding dairy, I would not recommend their iced coffees, they all contain dairy and unable to opt for black.

This was a cute place to relax and recuperate. Very friendly staff and great pho. Donuts are also phenomenal. A little pricey but for the middle of the desert, I was pleasantly surprised. The also claim their chili oil recipe is over 400 years oil, Which is pretty neat. Side note: bring cash because hot food is cash only.

While the food is decent, the service is absolutely horrible and the hit or miss hours make it impossible to plan to eat there unless you basically get lucky driving by while they’re open. I’ve eaten there 6-7 times and I don’t think I’ve ever had a positive experience with the staff. They seem to genuinely want you not to be there and act like your presence is a bother. Special shoutout to the girl at the front who sighs loudly every time you order as if you really caught her off guard by ordering food in a restaurant. Their hours are wholly inconsistent. They appear to close at will, and I’ve tried to go there multiple times to be turned around by a handwritten sign on the door saying they’ve closed inside of their posted hours. I’ve also been told they won’t take my order because it’s within 30 minutes of their lunch time. I apologize, I didn’t know I couldn’t order food while your open if it’s not the specific time you’re allowing me to order food. I’m genuinely excited for some other Vietnamese donut/pho options to open in town. It appears complacency in no competition has turned this place into a complete drag. I won’t be trying it any longer.

I did not expect to eat Pho in Joshua Tree, but when my Vietnamese girlfriend saw this place we had to try it. A place called Jelly Donut… selling pho… in Joshua Tree?? Well, the pho is genuinely very good and a large portion; I was pleasantly surprised. The banh mi was solid as well. The place is Cash only but has an ATM inside. Owner was very friendly and the food came fast. No complaints. Highly recommend stopping by for a great meal.

The owner updates the menu frequently, very generous portions and excellent food! I really enjoy the chicken and rice, the wife enjoys the beef and brisket wontons and fries, and my daughter craves the pho! The new brisket chili hotdogs are literally the best I’ve had in the US! Don’t skip this when you’re in town! (The photos of the brisket chili cheese dog was 1/4 of what it came with, the chicken and rice, the wonton fries brisket dish and the last photo was the birria egg rolls) egg rolls were great as well!

When eaten the same day or the day after, the donuts are good. We liked the old-fashioned (which is a glazed cruller) and the chocolate glaze but the raspberry jelly donut was barely filled and after overall the sugar glaze was getting to be a lot. The dough is nice and soft, but I wish that it had some sweetness instead of relying on a sugar glaze for flavor, which is why I think the old-fashioned is the best - there are lots of edges to give it texture and the right sugar to dough ratio. They accept credit card for donuts if you purchase over $10, but oddly they are cash only for everything else, which was pho for lunch in our case. Given the lack of options in the area (both an actual and food desert), it is an okay meal to give some variety, but nothing to write home about.

Great brisket and shrimp pho ordered to go. A lot of options to pick from, even for those who don't like vietnamese food.

Okay, ordered their beef pho, with extra meat. Tell me why they gave us SUCH little meat and expecting us to pay $16 with 3.50 for extra meat! Such a scam! Chu oi, you're in the desert. I know you're trying to scam these customers because we're in the desert and there's no other options around us. Next time I'll be back and I'll be VERY specific about what I want. No matter where we are, the people deserve quality for what they're paying for. - Nguoi Viet

Stopped for a grab and go breakfast on the way out of town. The donuts were classic and perfect. My husband also had a chicken and jalapeño croissant which he said was delightful. These were very classic old school donuts. Soft and tasty. The staff were very chill and super friendly. She shop is small with the majority of the tables outside. But it's clean and cozy. We will certainly be back to grab some Pho next time. It looks delightful!

My group and I were looking for a restaurant to eat after a long day of Joshua Tree hikes. We've been seeing this spot around that sold donuts AND Vietnamese food - very interesting. But being the only Vietnamese restaurant around, a really good selling point. We decided to check it out as our other options weren't calling us. It's located across of Fuji Restaurant in a gas station/diner looking area on 29 Palms Hwy in Twentynine Palms. There's an unpaved, unmarked parking lot for customers. I believe they're under new management hence why there's a Vietnamese-Mexican fusion of foods + donuts. My friends and I went at around 6:30-7pm, and the only donut they had was their HUGE apple fritter. So I'm guessing their donuts are relatively good as well. I got their What The Pho combination pho with beef balls, beef brisket, and beef steak. We all walked in without much expectations but surprisingly, the broth was relatively good. It was a lighter, "cleaner" broth without the long simmering of the beef bones. But it really hit the spot after a long day of hiking and being in cold/windy weather! There was a lot of beef protein in the pho as well. Yum! My boyfriend got their Hamburger Rice which was their Mexican dish. This was HUGE. We all thought it would be the typical rectangular take out box size, but it was in an even bigger take out container which was sectioned into two servings! HUGE - picture does not do it justice. It came sour cream, cheese, some delicious tasting sauce (supposedly spicy), and crispy delicious wonton chips to eat as if they were nachos. The hamburger rice was really good. So much flavor in the meat - yum! The wonton chips were a huge plus as well. For being the only Vietnamese (with Mexican fusion) shop in Joshua Tree, they will definitely be big during colder, winter seasons just like when my friends and I went. P.S. Hot foods are cash only. You can only pay for their donuts with a debit or credit card which was interesting.

I was a little skeptical about finding quality pho out here but why not in a donut shop? First off, make sure you have cash. They have an ATM inside but it didn't work for us and neither did the one right across the street. Otherwise, the food itself is great. Not saying it can hold up to the pho you'd find in a little Saigon but it's probably one of the better pho options around (if not the only?). The broth itself is good although not quite as deeply beef as some pho. Plentiful noodles and the meat is good as well. The kids got the ramen which basically uses the pho broth and the stir fried noodles which was pretty good too. The food comes out pretty quick and it hit the spot. We got some donuts as well which were fine but I would say you should come here for the pho and not the donuts.

Jelly Donut is an inconspicuous little spot along 29 Palms Hwy, we were craving Pho, and through the recommendation of an acquaintance who lives in the area, we decided to try it. First impression - the place is ok - if you are desperate to satisfy your cravings,, it's a donut shop that also serves Vietnamese food, we had Pho, service was like constipated enthusiasm, definitely needs improvement as we really felt the kid behind the counter have better things to do than to serve customers, also, the restaurant was like being in purgatory, it's not hell'ish but man it's freaking warm inside even with their portable "air conditioners", I guess I should have taken cues from our friend always having her food to go. The Pho was ok, nothing to brag home about, I felt it was on the skimpy side in comparison to what I'm used to in OC and LA especially with the meat---anyway, we've tried, craving pacified but that's the long and short end of it for us. Overall, it's ok but definitely our first and last due to the overall experience; food, service and comfort (it was too darn hot) Thanks!

The concept was appealing -- Vietnamese family run restaurant that's donuts by day, Mexican- Vietnamese fusion by night. The night part did not work well for us. We were unimpressed by the "taco dumplings", which were a great concept but too much wrapper, not enough filling, and needed cheese. Spring rolls were good, I liked the pot stickers but my kiddo didn't (because in contrast to the taco dumplings, these were plumply stuffed with pork). Nobody got a pho because it would have been too much with the appetizers; maybe that was a mistake. Donuts also did not impress. Nothing bad, but also nothing special in terms of flavors. I wanted to love this place but I cannot.

We stopped by after going to the Kitchen in the Desert and still feeling hungry. We ordered the taco dumplings- both chicken and brisket. We were served with sides of lettuce, onion, jalapeño, and salsa verde. We were so presently surprised! Great conversation with the owner while we waited for our food and the food was delicious and exceeded our expectations. Don't let the outside fool you! This place is great!

Unbeknownst to many, Jelly Donut Twentynine Palms has the best pho in the High Desert. That said, for a while, it was also the ONLY pho spot in the High Desert. Take that as you will. Still, the staff is friendly, and you can pick up your pho as soon as you can get there!

I don't know why I keep trying to give this place a chance. I brought cash this time and prepared to have to buy 2 ham and cheese croissants if I wanted one. That's their rule for their customers. Try to give them a chance after a remodel and everything. I still would not recommend this place to my worst enemy.

Great quirky find in 29 palms! I was pleasantly pleased by the taco dumplings (so crispy!) and the spicy chicken wings were moist and had a spicier after kick. Next time I'll get a donut too-the apple fritter the size of my chest for $7 is calling my name.

Always come here for the Pho! Tastes great every time! The girl at the register is awesome, always puts a smile on my face! Can't wait for the new spot to open.

This was my first time visiting and I was very disappointed. The cashier (white lady wearing a necklace and buttoned blouse) was rude and unprofessional. Customer service matters, and this experience makes me prefer to drive to Yucca next time to support a business that values its customers. Not coming here again! Lost a customer.

Pho shops in the middle of nowhere can be hard to find. We stumbled across this spot upon our arrival to Joshua Tree and hoped to get donuts from them, but it was sold out for the day. The food was okay. What we got had a very clean broth taste which really warmed up our bodies on a cold night. Aside from that, the service was quick and speedy. A few things to keep in mind is that they have a gas station like restroom around the out side of their restaurant. If you are uncomfortable with those types of restrooms, don't hold your breath for this one. Also, they take cash only so bring plenty of paper money.

If you're looking to feed a house full of teenagers, grab the wanton nachos on steroids! The brisket salad was perfect on a hot summer night Fast and friendly service as always

The brisket was awesome and the owner was super nice and friendly. This place is a hidden gem. The crispy tacos and wonton brisket chili were delicious. A must try if you're in Joshua tree. We'll definitely be back.

I love going to Jelly Donut. The food is excellent. I highly recommend this place. Service is always the best. This is a must go to place.

*Cash only* ^ Just had to warn everyone first. There's an ATM inside, but have cash ready. This whole place is a very interesting experience. This is a donut place in the dessert, inside of what looks like an abandoned gas station, that serves Vietnamese pho and some Asian fusion foods. It's a very very interesting combination... I came at night time and the donuts were all sold out. So I got the "What The Pho" which is their pho combo. It's also very interesting that basically all the pho was the same price. In the Bay Area, the different meats cost different amounts, so it was cool to see the combo was the same regular chicken or whatever. I got it to-go, it came in two styrofoam containers, one for the noodles and one for the broth and meats. You don't have the option to get the meat on the side incase you want to eat your meat a little more rare. Surprisingly, the pho noodles do fit into the broth container, just slowly dump it in and mix it. I don't know why, but I was just amazed by that. Jelly Donut pours the perfect amount of broth and noodles in order to have it all fit into one container and not spill out. The pho tasted whatever. It tastes like normal pho, and what to be expected. Nothing extraordinary, and not sucky. Just average. What I really like though, is the amount of meat they give! As I was eating, I kept digging to the bottom of the container there was more meat! At $15 for a combo and an abundance of meat, it's a great bargain!! Maybe next time, I can try one of their donuts and get the full experience.

Wow! This spot is epic. High desert vibes, great pho, friendly service and tasty doughnuts. Plenty of seating inside and out, easy parking and a quick drive from Joshua Tree National Park. Don't miss this spot if you enjoy pho or doughnuts. Trust me!

Too sweet for pho. Serving with lime, bean sprouts, peppers & cilantro? No basil! Meat are two thick!

Food is great, pho is really tasty. Crumbled doughnuts is really good Service - young guy at the cashier is not on the mood to serve. I saw a dried saucy ramen and I thought it was a fried noodle; so I asked. He said no and sat down; pretty apparent he is not on the mood to assist or even offer assistance. Then when we ordered and stated done in, you could hear him disappointed.., he served the food without offering water or drinks. Ambiance - very clean (well we are the only one dining in at 2pm. But few flies noted.

Tried a maple bar, chocolate crumb donut, and a ham and cheese croissant bright and early on a Monday morning - not too bad! Donuts were slightly warm with a nice fluffy texture. Good amount of toppings on each. The ham and cheese croissant was also pretty good - I liked the ratios of all of the fillings, and the croissant was nice and flakey. I'm curious how the dinner service is with both sweety and savory offerings - I would imagine that my nose would be super confused, but I'll just have to come back and see!

I can't say much other than ya just gotta go. It looks so sketchy and so uninviting, but the pho and ramen are amazing! We got there 40 minutes before they closed so they weren't doing dine in service. It took maybe 10 minutes to get all 4 of our meals- super quick service.

I've been coming here since I moved to 29 in 2022, and they never disappoint. Recently, I ordered two dozen donuts for pickup before they opened, and they accommodated me without any issues. The donuts are delicious, and their pho is my favorite in the high desert. Wonderful customer service

Donuts are good (albeit a little expensive) and their pho is great for 29 palms. The vegetable broth is delicious and my go to. Smoke flavor and lots of well cooked veggies. They give you all the fixings you need but I do always have extra at home because I like extra toppings.

On a quick stop in Twentynine Palms (after a long drive from Arizona) we were desperate for some real food. The name had me a little confused to say the least and was hesitant to order but so glad we did! We ordered the What the Pho! And it was delicious. A little different from how we eat it back home but it was excellent & exactly what we needed after a long drive. We also ordered the shrimp rolls which were also very tasty. We thought what the heck let's order fried shrimp as well. Those were good but nothing super fancy. We had our food delivered with door dash so we couldn't comment on the location. Don't let the jelly donut fool you. ( they do have donuts by the way lol ) give it a shot

Best thing about this place isn't the donuts. The Pho, taco rice, and seasonal chili cheese fries/wontons are amazing. I also really like their burger. This place has been a staple in the community for years and good to know they're serving up quality food. Donuts are good but they typically sell out before noon.

This is my go to spot for pho in the desert. I love the ambiance and that it's a bit no frills. The taco dumplings are a fun concept but I typically always get the pho and a classic donut

Incredible food. The dumpling tacos were amazing and worth the trip by themselves. The donuts also are an obvious must try. Ambience was what you expect from a hole-in-the-wall but the service was kind and helpful. Absolutely must try if you're in the area

New to the area I'm guessing there's a reason they didn't have powered donuts, especially Jelly powered donuts, which is what I came for. The donuts they did have were yummy! They were full size, fresh and otherwise the selection was okay. I purchased 2 1/2 dozen for my retreatants and co-teachers and they disappeared with no complaints.

Donuts and pho is quite an intriguing combination. It's pretty cold in Twentynine Palms in December and steaming pho hit the spot. Was it the best pho I've ever had? No. Was it perfect for a cold night? Yes. Tasty, piping hot, and substantial portions. The team here is courteous and quick. I also had the pork egg rolls which were okay and the chicken rice which was quite flavorful with sauce and pickled vegetables. The donuts were nearly sold out at 7 pm but we did snag a blueberry filled and cream filled donut which were quite good for day end. Good enough that we came back the next morning for a GIANT apple fritter, two old fashioned, a maple bar, and donut holes. Fair warning on the apple fritter--it's more for the 'gram than anything else--it's tastes okay but because of its size it's a little stiff.

A place called Jelly Donut that also has Vietnamese fusion food? Yes, please! It was such a random mix of types of food we couldn't miss an opportunity to stop in. It's nothing fancy, but the food and donuts are good! I got the wanton tacos and my husband got the pho. Both were excellent. If you find yourself at 29 Palms, stop in. You won't regret it.

This is long overdue. The owner gave us a sampler of the rice dishes and they are sumptuous!! The portions are generous. I love my food hot. Their service is great and the dishes were served straight out of the kitchen. Their Pho is one of the best in town. I had pho from other places and I keep going back to this place. Dumplings, curry and all the dishes are just delish!! This is one of those hole in the wall places that needs to be shared to others.

The experience was okay, they only take cash so just a heads up. This was my first time trying Pho and I wasn't really impressed. I also got some potstickers which were good and a donut. Unfortunately, I fear the same oil they fried the potstickers in they fried the donuts.. so I wasn't too happy with that.. Overall, I give it a 6/10.

Let me start by saying this is the easiest 5-star rating I've ever given. Swing by JD after finishing dinner at another local spot. Despite the time and knowing the chances were slim, a buddy and I decided we wanted to push our luck and maybe get hands on some donuts. When we walked in, you could smell the delicious smell of pastries in the air. Sadly, the case was empty and there were no donuts to be had. But right as we accepted that we would have to wait till morning, the owner behind the counter asked if we were after the oh so popular delights. We laughingly acknowledged and indicated we wanted to be back the following morning when they were fresh. The owner gave the best times, but then hit us with something we did NOT expect. The owner said he had one left for the day and that we could have dibs if we wanted. Without knowing, we accepted thinking we were getting one, single donuts to split. Lo and behold, this gracious owner gave us this! Saying he appreciated us for stopped by and he hopes we would enjoy. The kindness and hospitality was so refreshing and so great. To anyone in need of an incredible donut, or simply something to eat. Check out the JD.

Food next level. Pho, best I've had and viet here! Little gem and grama cooking in back. Come here everytime I'm in town. They have it all. Kid friendly and huge portion. Brisket tacos and pho is my hit list. It tickles my tounge and flavor bomb in your mouth. Also must try the dumlming tacos,no one else has it. Viet coffee is strong and authentic like the owner!

The curry and tacos are really good. I recommend skipping the fried appetizer foods and go for the entrees which is a lot more delicious

Don't let looks fool you! Jelly Donut defines hole in the wall for every type of munchies you might get. Service with a smile and super friendly. When you walk in you may think "dated" but that's because they've been up and running for decades. Sit down and order, you'll be pleasantly surprised for cost to taste ratio.

Quick and easy pick up gas station type joint for the quirky combo of donuts + pho. Good enough pho in the area with a nice enough broth, noodles, and some meat - pho king (beef) and pho real (chicken).

The food was outstanding, prepared with freshness in every bite. The staff were incredibly welcoming and readily addressed all our inquiries. The donuts were simply divine and fresh. We can't wait to return!

The epitome of eclectic food with a menu of donuts and a very interesting take on Vietnamese and Mexican fusion with other influences. Donuts were great and boba drinks + coffee was good as well. Pho was decent - not the most flavorful broth that I'm used to from the best Pho restaurants but the meat was fresh and hit the spot. Kids had friend shrimp and eggrolls with both being very good. We also got the dumpling tacos that were excellent. Had to come back the next day and try their brisket fries. This one was the bomb and everyone loved it. Big serving filled with briskets, wonton chips, fries, and covered in sauce. There's a larger version with eggs and shrimp that I thought I ordered but they didn't hear me. This little hole in the wall that's a former gas station is highly recommended and worth a stop to get some excellent food while visiting Joshua Tree.

The 5 stars is for the pho noodle soup (option #5). The broth is really good, even better than spots in OC. Some of their specialty foods also stand out. The wonton tacos are different but tasty. Be sure to fold it before adding the generous toppings and salsa. The Vietnamese brisket sandwich is also really tasty. They ran out of their normal buns and had to use hotdog buns. The owner felt so bad he gave us a full refund and an extra order of dumplings (which was not bad). We were so full when the sandwiches came out that we ended up eating them in the national park the next day. Still tasty. The Vietnamese coffee was huge and on point. The only things I would stay away from are the fried foods: pork egg rolls and crispy shrimp were not awesome. Pro tip: call ahead, even if you plan on eating there. Things can get busy and I noticed some other customers getting hangry. WARNING: CASH ONLY FOR HOT FOOD. There is an ATM but why pay the service fee when you can be prepared. Great place. Amazing service. Family loved it so much they requested that we go back the next day. 5 stars.

Best jelly filled donut I've had and the perfect treat after a long morning hiking. These donuts are glazed lightly and filled with either blueberry or raspberry jam. Each bite is so light and fluffy yet sweet and rich at the same time. Worth stopping in for a treat! The restaurant is also super cute and even has a lunch menu.

This place is definitely an interesting one. Food was good for sure. Got the dumpling tacos which were good. Definitely interesting lol. Also got a ramen which was very filling and tasty. In the am they have donuts. Go figure haha

My writing this review for this place is certainly more than a willingness; it's an obligation! My daughter and I are traveling in CA for our annual Christmas vacation, and are in LA vicinity and Joshua Tree (National Park) as I'm writing this review (in mid/late Dec of 2021.) Since my daughter is a Pho addict, we stopped by this restaurant earlier today around 2:30pm to satisfy our hunger, and were simply intrigued by its concept: Pho and doughnuts!! I was like, WTFuton!! Alice, who was above-and-beyond when she served us before and after our meal, explained about the restaurant's owner, rice is only served on weekends so they only serve noodles during the weekdays, and restaurant hours, should deserve a raise. When we dined, we were the only customer so we got her 100% attention. The potstickers and veggie Pho (Pho Ever) were so filling for their prices (even though my daughter and I split the whole things.) If you pay close attention to its interior, you'll notice that the condiment table's legs are old slot machines which I had to take a picture of. We see all kinds of creativity inside it. We were really glad that we took a chance on this place even though we could have passed by it had we not found it on Yelp!!

The donuts were nice and fresh! The one issue is that you need have cash for anything under $10 which can be a pain.

Asain dude is awesome. Thick heavy lady is RUDE ! I've been in three times that the asian dude is very helpful but this chick is just straight up rude! I ordered $35 in food and asked her.She could fill at my 32 Oz water cup with water No ice. She acted like she was giving me gold And said she couldn't fill it all the way up because it would take up too much of her filtered. I just spent $35 by myself abd you can't fill my water. She proceeded to fill it to the brim with ice.And I said no I didn't want any ice. She takes a cough and throws ice in the sink.Acting like i'm putting her out. Maybe if. You weren't such a jerk and listened.I wouldn't have wasted your ice. Then she yelled at me for leaning on the cabinet because "it's old". It's a glass cabinet with metal surround. I understand not wanting a bunch of handprints all over it.But I don't think glass degrades over time.And I literally had my four arm on it while I was sending a text. I think she may be an owner.If not she needs to be fired because she sucks!

Very interesting place that apparently serves donuts during the day, and Vietnamese fusion food at night. After a long drive to 29 Palms, we decided to have some Pho to warm ourselves up. The pho was actually quite good -- flavorful and clean broth! Everything is served in to go containers, even though we were dining in. Also tried the dumpling taco and it was okay.

We had the best food tonight. #4 & #5 Pho, Beef/Chicken won ton tacos and the Brisket Fries....WOW AMAZING. All of the food was so delicious. Service was supper quick and the absolute best.