Voodoo Donuts is considered a Portland icon to people nationally, but what do the locals of this Portland icon think? Whether you love Voodoo Donuts or can’t stand them, they have established a national reputation.

Voodoo Donuts is built upon the friendship of owners and founders Kenneth Pogson and Tres Shannon. Their business was opened in 2002 at their first location on Southwest 3rd Avenue in Portland and this location is still in operation today. They have a current total of seven locations in Oregon and Colorado and are still interested in expansion.

Due to Voodoo Doughnuts’ strong reputation, it has attracted the attention of many people in the area, and their outreach even extends as far as suburbs of St. Louis. Some of these followers from far away may not have ever been to Voodoo Doughnuts, but their unique style has attracted their attention.

“Voodoo Doughnuts is a fun atmosphere with great donuts. I am gluten-free and am so glad they offered gluten-free donuts,” said Tessa Fleischli, a current resident of Labadie, Missouri. “My friends who are vegan always talk about Voodoo Donuts.”

Even as far as Missouri, Voodoo Donuts has gained the support of many.

“I think Voodoo Doughnuts are amazing! The have such a wide variety of unique donut combinations”, said Shannon Kelly, a freshman at LHS.

Many students at LHS are obsessed with this donut craze, and have heard of these tasty treats from word-of-mouth at school and on social networks. Due to the city of Lake Oswego being so close to Portland, many students have easy access to Voodoo Doughnuts, and in some cases visit frequently enough to develop personal favorites.

“I have been plenty of times. I recommend the Maple Bacon Bar and the Oreo Cookie and Peanut Butter doughnuts”, said Sam Willis, junior at LHS.

Students are not the only ones at LHS who have developed opinions on Voodoo Doughnuts, as many teachers have also been there.

“I think they are fun, clever and appealing, however I do not think they are the best tasting donuts”, said Diane Long, an English teacher at LHS.

The unique and quirky donuts have proven to be appealing to both students and teachers. However, Voodoo Donuts is not the only donut shop in Portland that has a following. Blue Star Donuts also offers a wide variety of unique donuts that have gained attention.

“I think [Voodoo Donut’s] reputation is better than their donuts.” said Daniela Bonanno, another English teacher at LHS.

“I enjoyed Blue Star Donuts more than Voodoo Doughnuts, as they are way fresher. I would recommend Blue Star Donuts over Voodoo Doughnuts.”

Whether you are a supporter of Voodoo Doughnuts or not, their increasing popularity has certainly gained the attention of many people both near and far.