Where History Was Made Over Coffee & Donuts
For decades, Cooper Do-nuts was more than just a donut shop—it was a community hub, a refuge, and a site of resistance. Located in downtown Los Angeles, it welcomed LGBTQ+ patrons, late-night workers, artists, and outcasts, offering a warm donut, a cup of coffee, and a space free of judgment.
In 1959, Cooper Do-nuts became the site of one of the earliest recorded acts of LGBTQ+ resistance in the U.S., when customers fought back against police harassment—a decade before the Stonewall Riots
Cooper donuts will always be the absolute best donuts ever. I am 61 years old and some of my best childhood memories include your donuts. They were a staple in our home. I just my Dad in ’73 at she 12 and the memories of my Dad and I at your shops stay with me forever. Going to get a donut was our special Dad and daughter time. Thank you!
– Francisca M.
While going to USC in the 1960s and living on the row, we would often go there late at night for a donut. Even back then, I was impressed with how Cooper would hire those in need. We need more establishments like that today. Recently before the articles in the papers, I was thinking: Can’t Cooper Donuts come back to help people?
– Rick B.
I’m a first generation Mexican-American. My parents were hard working immigrants who would treat us to a special treat once in a while and drive our family to Cooper Donuts. They were do good. This is part of my childhood memories.
– Randy H.
I loved going with my dad in the 1960’s, 70 and 80 to bye Cooper donuts. I especially loved the glaze and chocolate cake donuts. To this day whe I eat donuts I compare them to Coopers and have not found one that compares to my taste memories. I miss my copper donuts.
– Donna Z.
Growing up in the OC, we had several Lou Cooper Donuts in the area. Any relationship or just a coincidence?
– Mark K.