Rudy’s Donuts Closing After 60 Years
After 60 years of serving donuts, coffee, and memories to Castro Valley, the family behind Rudy’s Donuts says it is time to retire.
Last week, sisters Gina Gatto Alfaro and Angela Gatto Ducato posted a notice on the doors announcing the news. The shop will be open until Sunday, December 22.
“Thank you for letting us be a part of your family,” Gina, Angela, and Staff said in the notice.
As a business, Rudy’s was able to weather several financial obstacles including the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, the retirement news was a shock to some customers.
“Friday was Donut Day when I dropped the boys at school,” resident Geno Zertuche says. “It was the only time they would be in the car before me. I am truly going to miss these nice ladies...and the chocolate chip donuts!”
Fans of Rudy’s started lining up right after the news and all this week to make sure they could get their favorite sweet treats.
“There will never be anyone that can make Apple Fritters like you,” says resident Kathi Townsend. “I remember when you were in your first location, and we would stop by a couple of times a week with the "littles," starting with donut holes and then Maple Bars, and then I discovered the fritters! I'm so sad but happy for you. You will sorely be missed!”
The company was founded by Rudy Gatto, who worked at Winchell’s Donuts in town and eventually decided to branch out. In 1987, Gatto moved his operation to the current Castro Valley Boulevard and Yeandle Avenue site, which was initially a drive-in dairy in the early 60s. Gatto passed away in 2006. His wife, Shirley Ducato, and daughters, Angela and Gina, manage the business.
“Congratulations on a well-earned retirement,” says resident Laurie Devine. “You will be missed tremendously! Not only are Rudy’s the best donuts in town but also Gina and Angela are the best! I’ve been going to Rudy’s since I was a kid and have been bringing my own kids!! Sunday’s won’t be the same without you!! Thank you so much for also helping us host so many coffee and donut days over the years for the amazing teachers at our kids schools! You’ve been such a blessing to the community.”
Other residents remember Rudy’s for the job opportunity it provided.
“I worked for Rudy's from 1995 to 2022,” says CV resident Kim Walton. “This was the longest place I've ever worked at in all my working years. I retired in 2022 after 26 and a half years at Rudy's. I enjoyed working here until my body and feet told me it was time to retire. I miss working there but the body was saying it's time to give it up. Rudy's will always be the best donuts around in my book. Gina and Angela, enjoy your retirement. Just not having to get up at 2:00 a.m. is going to feel sooo good. Rudy's will be missed by all.”