Review Donovans - St Kilda

Went here for dinner on New Years Eve, service was 5 star as was the food. Even the potatoes were spectacular, every dish was a flavour bomb. Wine list expensive but we enjoyed the cocktails and they were reasonably priced. We will definitely be returning for lunch very soon. Highly recommend the Apple Soufflé, outstanding 🙌🍎

This is one place I won’t be going back to. I don’t mind paying a bit for good food so long as it’s something special. Unfortunately I can’t say Donovans delivers on that. The portion sizes are so small, super expensive and not special at all. The drinks are a rip off too. $45 for half a bottle of wine? The wait staff need to be more clear when explaining the specials. We ordered the sword fish expecting a nice, big fillet and got a few paper thin slithers on a plate with some garnish. Furthermore, my partner got food poisoning shortly after we got home and was not well all night. Not a pleasant experience.

I love this place. My regular restaurant in st kilda. The food is lovely and the service is always good. Perfect for your anniversary dinner. Make sure you book the table next to window for the best best beach view

Great customer service. Not much space between tables, the restaurant was full and very noisy during our meal. Food was good but I was expecting something better for the location and price.

Not a rating I want to give, the food 5/5 and the waitress 5/5 but the reason for this rating is down to the managers rudeness and attitude. Twice the wrong bottle of wine was brought to our table, we asked to just have two glasses instead as we had nearly finished our mains and didnt want to drink a bottle with no food. The manager was rude and made out like it was our error receiving the wrong wine. At the end of the meal he came and threw some chocolates on our table and walked off. Very disappointing, we have been here before and loved it but his manner was terrible.

Was there with my soul sister on Saturday night 11th June, food was great, ambience was classy yet warm, and we have met the best waitress ever her name is Laura. She’s so professional yet feels like friend. She never gave us any feeling of interruption and appeared naturally at the right moment to do what she needs to take care of us. Love the Donovan experience and Laura’s top notch service.

First class modern Australian cuisine leaning towards and keeping representing (Italian) melbourne food heritage; highlighting fresh seafood treated respectfully. all served by very professional staff Without pomposity. The crab ravioli was a highlight- the ocean sweetness of the crab meat perfectly delivered via thin al dente pasta sheets. Views of the beach and water, purposefully cozy atmosphere. Unfortunately it may have lost its trendy shine in recent years but the quality and standards have maintained going back at least 15 years and i wish them all the best so i can keep coming for special occasions (prices continue being dear).

Food was tasty but for the price you pay I was expecting it to be exceptional. The restaurant was cool, staff could be more welcoming, overall was good. Nice area to go for a walk before or after!

Went here with my family. We all got a slab of meat and the quality was top. We also loved the bread so we asked for more and more. There were a few famous actors dinning the same time as us.

It has been a long time since I last visited Donovan's, however the experience did not disappoint me! The seafood for what this place was famous for were fresh and the steak was not bad either. However, the flaming of Bombe Alaska was already done in the kitchen. I guess maybe it was due to the recent bushfire events and we totally respected it. We enjoyed the night and will definitely come back again!

It’s best if you book first beforehand.

We dine quite often at Donovans - it is always at a high standard with service many other places can only dream of offering. Food quality is first class, portion sizes generous, the wine list is impressive, it is comfortable and has beautiful views. All in all a great place to enjoy a meal and company.

Donovans is an iconic Melbourne institution located in St. Kilda. Modern Australian cuisine done properly. <br/>🍽 tempura fried oysters with pickled radish - Sydney Rock oysters are my favourite and the way they were prepared was a delight. Seared scallops with cauliflower purée- Juicy plump scallops perfectly caramelised. Linguini with seafood and Moreton bay bug, chilli and garlic - good amount of seafood, silky pasta, nice hit of chilli. Lamb rump with potato gratin - medium rare lamb with smokey creme fraiche and creamy potato gratin. Only criticism is that the lamb portion was a bit smaller than I’d like. For $54 I’d expect a little more. To finish the evening we had a bombe Alaska. This was a very big portion which became quite sweet overtime but was still a decent dessert. <br/>💁‍♀️dined at Donovans on a busy night. Service was attentive and friendly. Fine dining done very well.

I’ve been wanting to try Donovan’s since the worth it steak episode and finally made a booking. We ordered oysters, chicken liver pate, and two rib eye steaks. The steaks were better than expected. They were tender and cooked to perfection. The “chips” were the crispiest potatoes I’ve ever had. Overall an amazing meal in a gorgeous venue with a beautiful view of st kilda beach.

A Melbourne institution which does fine dining exceptionally well. The chicken pie, the scallops, the salmon blini and the tempura oyster are real highlights. As is the bombe laska.<br/>

Donovan’s was a rather iconic restaurant located in the St Kilda beach area, serving modern Australian cuisine. The view of the beach was amazing especially if you were seated by the windows. The food I ordered, slow cooked pork belly with a side of house chips, were pretty delicious but not too outstanding; the pork was tender and nicely paired with fresh green pepper relish, and for dessert I had their famous bombe alaska which was choc hazelnut ice cream covered in toasted meringue, but it came with no liqueur and meringue toasting action. Service was pretty friendly, the atmosphere felt comfortable in an old fashion way.

Can’t believe I’ve not done a review for Donovan’s, the on-St-Kilda-Beach stalwart that I’ve been coming to for years!!<br/><br/>You know I open those Art Deco inspired swimmer doors and see the waiters in their kit that hasn’t changed and I feel at home. In fact that’s the whole ambiance of the place, like going home. <br/><br/>Stand out service: warm, professional, perfect timing and smiles. It adds so much to the experience. <br/><br/>I wasn’t drinking alcohol this time, for a friends 50th so just stuck to the Cape Grim sparkling. <br/><br/>Started with that incredible bread with the butter and white bean purée. I eat too much of it usually this time I was a good girl!<br/><br/>Seared Tasmanian scallops with cauliflower purée, hazelnut and cucumber salsa, tempura mushrooms and caramelised lemon was my entree. Yum yum yum. I was impressed as there were 5 or 6 scallops and i probably are it too quickly as all those flavors married together perfectly. <br/><br/>Had at least 25 mins between meals which was great as I was then not too full for main which was rare seared barbequed blue fin tuna with pea purée, smoked potato croquette, baby vegetables and apple and yuzu foam. Beautifully presented and perfectly cooked; again I ate this down so fast. Obviously I haven’t eaten out in a great place for sometime. <br/><br/>Our waitress was understated yet there when you needed her. <br/><br/>Bombe Alaska to be shared with chocky sauce. No lighting it like they once did (too dangerous in these days of insurance claims). I nearly finished this old favourite that we have every time we come. Divine!! Mocha to end, sadly in a restaurant of this calibre, no almond milk!! No complaints either way. <br/><br/>Thank you Donovan family for a fabulous Sunday (12pm seating) lunch!

Excellent setting on StKilda beach in what feels like a warm, cosy hut in winter. The service is excellent as you’d expect and the food is fresh. Had the scallops & barramundi which I found to be good without being blown away (which you may expect for the price tag).

Dined for dinner on Sunday night, surprise from hubby as I've always wanted to dine here. Started with appetiser of snapper & dill croquette, entree was kingfish crudo, main was beef cheek & we shared dark chocolate fondant for dessert. I had the yuzu dynasty mocktail as my drink. All the food was well presented & delicious. Service was welcoming, friendly & attentive. This is a fine dining experience so a very expensive night out but worth it when it's for a special occasion.

What can one say about a restaurant that truly puts so much effort into their food and environment.<br/>Not to mention the views from the windows.<br/>Beautiful lunch had on a Friday.<br/>Special place that rewards every diner.<br/>Thank you 🙏 <br/>

I’ve been to this restaurant quite a few times. But never again! I just had the most terrible experience by just trying to book it. So bad! Terrible guys! With the such a name you should do better for your customers. <br/>It’s my first bad review ever! Me and my partner are very upset. <br/>Never again! Forget about Donovans.

I remember the first time I came to Donovan's with my Mother as a young boy how impressed I was with this place. Although the service and atmosphere is still the same the food however is lacking attention to detail. 4.5 stars for the service and 2 stars for the food unfortunately. Hope they make it better.

Amazing service. It was my mums birthday and they even brought out a small treat. Food was delicious and definitely worth the price. This place doesn’t rely on its location for good reviews.

Really wanted to love this place but unfortunately the only letdown happened to be the most important part of our visit, the steak :( Ordered the Tbone medium rare but came much too rare... would have chalked it up to a once off error but my friend's eye fillet was equally undercooked. Fish and chips were good though! Hopefully will return and update my review but at this price point there really shouldn't be this issue to be honest

Perfect day. Perfect view of St Kilda beach. Perfectly friendly service. Perfectly astonishing food. 43rd marriage anniversary to a guy who’s practically perfect in every way! Thank you.

Lovely views, pleasant service, food was the let down, for the price I expected more... I had the grass fed steak, was bland and chewy, I want to eat steak out better than I make it at home, didn't on this occasion.

Excellent food and atmosphere. Service was great too. Would come back to eat and enjoy the lovely view. Nice for a dinner date if you want to take a significant other

This is a beautifully adorned restaurant with lovely service, however, sometimes the food can feel out of touch with modern dining habits and palettes. Dishes are often under-seasoned and lack any real vibrancy. Still the food manages to be luxurious but not quite at the level you’d expect for the price and reputation.

Came here to celebrate my fiance's birthday. Got a window seat which was a bonus. The staff were welcoming, friendly and attentive. Beautiful food and a large selection of wines and beers. I habe the fish of the day (whole baby snapper) and mh partner had the barramundi. Both were excellent. We both had desserts (almond gelato and a passionfruit brulee) which came out with a candle for both our birthdays. They were devine and topped off dinner. A very special, memorable evening at ghis Melbourne institution.

Birthday Dinner Perfection<br/>House smoked salmon & scallops for entree so fresh & understated. Always good bread with butter & fava bean dip with a Parmesan infused oil. <br/>Mains were 500g t bone whole snapper filled with fennel & lemon. Regular sides of crispy on the outside fluffy on the inside potatoes & a few dressed cos lettuce leaves. All meals just divine! Bomber Alaska for desert & it’s a 3 course perfection! <br/>Service was amazing such a good friendly relaxed vibe.

Atmosphere was lovely and the venue was cosy , staff were nice except they forgot to give us the specials when they handed up the menue . The only reason we knew there was specials on the menu was because we overheard the waitress giving them to another couple. They should have explained the menus and specials when they handed us the menu or had them available to read . The food was tasteless and had a deep fat fried taste about it and no flavour , the salmon needed a sauce , actually asked for some lemon to give it flavour . Hubby had two 25 dollar glasses of wine and thought it was nice and tasty . Decided to skip desert as both were not impressed with starters and mains

Love this restaurant. The location beside the beach is stunning, especially around sunset, and the interior is gorgeous, very relaxed and homey. The staff are friendly and service is excellent. Bread to start was very good. We ordered a variety of entrees to share: the scallops (nice), liver parfait (very good) and confit duck leg (excellent). My eye fillet was lovely and I also tried my friend's seafood linguine which was as good as I recall from my last visit here many years ago. On the pricey side but good quality food and a lovely venue for a special meal.

Last time I was here was in 2004. Not much has changed. We had the oysters, baby snapper special, crudo, spaghetti marinara and coconut rough dessert. The food was a good size and the service was nice but not overly friendly. The food was cooked well but there were no punch in your face flavours at this place. Just nice produce cooked well. Maybe another 14 years before I come back and try again. Probably not my style of food. 2ppl =$300 includes drinks

a warm and inviting atmosphere with the feint smell of an open fire and lush warm timber finishes (wouldn’t be out of place on the snowfields, but also to adopt a seaside feel as well)

I’ve been there twice and can’t wait to go back again. Ambience of this establishment - particularly on a glorious summer evening - is sublime. Seriously delicious food and excellent service. The menu isn’t adventurous- but Im betting it is extremely reliable. The wine list is exceptional although on the pricey side - I’m sure I’m not the only person to have been caught out drinking rosé all afternoon only to find out that I hadn’t chosen the “cheap” option after all!

Saw this place on Buzzfeed's worth it series and decided to give it a try. Was not disappointed and I can say the comments on the steak by Buzzfeed's Andrew and Steven were not exaggerated. Well seasoned and still juicy, it is worth its price and the staff was really accommodating. Right beside the beach, the views of sunset was absolutely beautiful and had a really great experience there.

4.5 A nice classic beach house restaurant, serving fresh seafood and delicious easy going dish with the highest quality ingredients. The mussels are absolute favourite here..they very clean (mussels needs to be cleaned properly before cooking) fresh and very well cooked with great sauce.. and they have the best service, they really looked after us very well.

Donovans is truly the authentic Melbourne taste and always the go-to option among foodies for special occasion. Best to request the seat on window side - if possible of course - the amazing view just a part of the enjoyment. <br/><br/>You find the beautiful steak always available. Most of the mains (from charcoal) are very satisfying and entrees come in large variety. Staffs know their wines well and able to make amazing recommendations. <br/><br/>However I would like to make some suggestions for the Bombe Alaska - as a signature dessert it is real photogenic however just too much. The full-filled ice cream inside made you hit sweet hangover too fast and would not like to continue. It really would be much nicer if they can also add nuts and munchies to give it a different texture.

Delicious food and excellent customer service! Nestled along the shore line is an casual, yet fine dining restaurant, Donovan’s. The food is wonderful and the staff are friendly, warm and happy to have a chat to you. <br/><br/>The food came out a good pace and the drinks were served moments after ordering them; the customer service couldn’t be faulted! <br/><br/>There’s a good mix of protein options on the menu, and though it’s pricey, you pay for what you get: quality. Mains were about $45ish on average and starters are around the $25 mark. <br/><br/>I’d definitely recommend going to Donovan’s

I went to this restaurant to celebrate my birthday, this is a magic place, is just on front of the beach, so the view is amazing! The staff is very professional. We ate the handmade goats cheese raviola is you are vegetarian or not You will really enjoy this dish! I ordered the T-bone was good I asked for medium rare but they bring to me medium. For the dessert I ate the warm apple and cinnamon pie this was the star of the night perfectly balance of flavor! Just amazing place!

We recently had a nice lunch here. Small meals but quite nice flavour and super service. Lovely view on a nice day. Fancy bathrooms, worth a visit just to have a look.

My husband and I just celebrated our wedding anniversary at Donovans and yes we had high expectations. We ordered two cocktails between us which took well over 20 minutes, and at $22 each you expect some wow factor which was not the case. We then shared the scallops for an entree which were tasty but tiny, like comically tiny as only half the plate was used.  Our mains: the seafood linguine with half a Morton bay bug, super yummy and garlicky but of course with loads of pasta and some mussels and a couple of prawns.  Also the Pinot Grigio we ordered wasn't that great nor the cheapest on the menu. <br/>Overall the interior is gorgeous and the food is tasty but when you are paying those prices you expect a higher level of service and quality. A pasta priced around the $50 mark should be bursting with seafood no? <br/>I feel like Donovans doesn't have a very clear USP and in the competitive world class hospo sector of Melbourne I am surprised at how busy it was.

Haven’t been here for years. Came by for a birthday dinner. It’s always a trustworthy crowd pleaser. Fresh seafood. Great service as usual. Beautiful view of the sunset to accompany pre dinner drinks.

What a serene and unusually warm April day to try this St Kilda Institution. This was recommended by friends as a fine dining family friendly establishment. <br/><br/>Greeted upon entry by very friendly staff, we were shown to our perfectly positioned table by the window, overlooking the bay and hundreds of sun worshippers! <br/><br/>The service was impeccable and our waitress was very friendly and recommended some specials. <br/><br/>With the bay setting the scene, we opted for seafood and started with the Snapper croquettes served with aioli at $6 each. These were very flavoursome and I could have easily had another. <br/><br/>For mains we decided upon the Linguine with seafood and Moreton Bay bug, chilli and garlic at $54.00. Portion size was quite large, seafood was fresh and tasty but I felt the linguine lacked a little flavour. <br/><br/>We also tried the Handmade goats cheese ravioli, caramelised onion puree, heirloom beetroots, pine nut, sage and truffle vinaigrette at $34.00. This was quite a small portion for a main, the presentation was exquisite and the goats cheese was very strong however I did enjoy it. <br/><br/>For Dessert we selected a variety of beautifully presented delights:<br/><br/>The Chocolate peanut butter gateau- dark and milk chocolate mousse, hazelnut sponge, peanut butter praline ganache with roasted banana ice cream at $24.00. The plating of this dish was the standout and that roasted banana ice cream was devine. <br/><br/>Also delicious was the homemade Individual warm apple and cinnamon pie with cream cheese pastry, vanilla custard and brown butter ice cream at $22.00<br/><br/>Finally came the Sheep’s milk panna cotta with citrus salad of blood orange, grapefruit and mandarin, white chocolate crumbs and mini meringues at $22.00<br/><br/>Our cappuccino and short macs were a hit and I cannot fault the coffee. <br/><br/>The decor was very welcoming and homely and I can’t wait to come back in winter and dine by the fireplace. They have a kids menu and some toys to entertain. Parking in the area is $12.60 all day. Once I can justify spending the $120 I’ll be back to try those pepper glazed ribs for 2 😂😂.

One of our favourite dining spots, flexible menu and amazing service. Try their seafood marinara and risotto to die for. Love the warm breads and bomb alaska dessert

Best fish and chips I’ve had! The batter was so light and crispy, quality fish too. The in-house smoked salmon was also very good, not salty and deep flavours.

Donovans is our favourite special occasion restaurant in Melbourne for its combination of excellent food, atmosphere and service. Located on the beach but protected from the elements, the interiors at Donovans are inviting and cosy, perfect for a long-stay (40 Jacka Boulevard, St Kilda). There is a lot of detail to appreciate, particularly around the fireplace. We recommend booking ahead to get a table by the window if you love people watching. The view is especially stunning at dusk.

Very pleasant dinning experience. All food tasted very nice, good potion size. Had the oyster, fresh and tasty.For starter, we shared the scallops and a duck dish, good flavor! <br/>Main we shared tbone steak, seafood pasta, chicken pie and grilled prawn. ..Steak was very tender, chilken pie very hommy hearty style, pasta had good amount of oil and seafood, lately the grilled prawn cooked at the right timing... Really. Can't fault anything.. Even the bread and sides were good too.<br/>Service was excellent too..We bought our own birthday cake,they helped to plate it up and sang along the birthday song too.<br/>Overall, we enjoyed ourselves a lot there.

One of Melbourne’s best! Right in the water they have beautiful views and overly decking to enjoy a cocktail on a summer’s night. Make a booking though because this place is popular! Their seafood is always a winner, and if you’re a seafood lover then you must try. The mussels in white wine sauce are to die for and the bombe Alaska is famous and delicious!!

I’ve been so excited to go to Donovans and finally went here last night for dinner on the 13/2. I booked a good 2-3 weeks earlier and asked if there were many others bookings and was told I was the first to book for 2. I called to follow up on the table the day of the booking and was told that it was first in best dressed for a window table. I arrived and was unable to get a seat right next to the window which was annoying (and I know I’m being picky but the dinner was important to me) - however the table we got was super cosy and the sky was absolutely gorgeous!! I’ve read really good reviews about the food here - I got the goatscheese tortellini my partner got the eye fillet and we got duck fat potatoes to share. <br/>The taste of the tortellini was great, however some of the tortellinis were cold and others were warm which made it hard to eat. If I could order again I would go for the fish and chips or lamb ragu. <br/>My partners steak was cooked perfectly, the beans had a lot of flavour and the pumpkin purée was delicious. Even the house made chips with rosemary and sea salt was delicious. However once again, the steak was quite cold as if it was left out to rest and forgotten about. <br/>The duck fat potatoes - don’t bother ordering them. They were cold, barely had any flavour. <br/>The staff are really attentive and polite, Nathan, I believe that’s his name, helped us with our bill at the bar and was good conversation to end our experience at donovans. <br/>All in all, I feel like it’s a bit hit and miss but if you haven’t been highly anticipating going to donovans and stumble across this restaurant, you will be pleasantly surprised! Hope others food experience is a little bit better than ours was however we will be back to try and let the food redeem itself because the view is simply amazing!

Always impeccable service, amazing food and always with a gorgeous view of the water. The butterflied prawns are a crowd fave and their eye fillet is always cooked to perfection - one of my favourite places in Melbourne to have a steak! Can’t go past Donovan’s for a nice occasion or just when you wanna treat yaself!

Growing up in Melbourne you walk past Donovan's on a hot day after a day at st kilda beach and wonder what's happening in this restaurant. I'm glad to report I'm all grown up and had my opportunity to dine at Donovan's and live out the the dream of eating at dovovans on a hot summer day. Let me start by saying it did not disappoint. The oysters were fantastic. The mussels were nice but the standout for me was the salmon main. This salmon has to be some of the best cooked salmon you can get in Melb. It was tender, cooked medium rare and had the most amazing flavours. We finished off with the duck which is great for sharing if your dining in a large group but too big for just one or two people. Make sure you leave room for dessert cause the bombe Alaska was beautiful. Had a great cake base, ice cream in the middle and a top layer of goodness on the top. Make sure you get all the layers at once because it's like an explosion of flavour and texture in your mouth.

Came here for my partners birthday and we were both taken away by the food . I was really impressed with every dish that came out and the portions were so generous we couldn’t even fit in dessert ! Usually we do tend to over order but this time we really out did ourselves

We all know this restaurant has a great ocean view & the ambience is very comfortable. Their signature ice cream is a must order dish. The service also good so I am always happy to go back again .

A lovely iconic restaurant by the seaside (with an amazing view) with food that lives up to expectation. The staff are very friendly and professional. The drinks were great- a good variety of classic cocktails and ones with a twist (highly recommend the cucumber martini and scary Mary) and there is a very decent wine list. The seafood here is to die for- we had oysters, the fish of the day (baby snapper) and barramundi. It was fresh, simply done and delicious.

Spent our anniversary night here. <br/>Had an amazing dinner with the T Bone steak and the Salmon dish. <br/>Both were cooked to perfection I was left very impressed with the salmon dressing and it was a very filling dish. <br/>My partner felt like the chargrilled taste was overpowering on the T Bone after a few bites and wasnt very satisfied. <br/>The potatoes and lettuce that accompanied both dishes were simply perfect. <br/>The mussels that we had as starters definitely impressed us and was probably the best mussels I have had! <br/><br/>Great work Donovans! See you next time.

I had a work party here and the service was great. They were very thoughtful and also had a great laugh with us all night. Props to "Matt" being a great waiter and adding to the enjoyment for the night.<br/><br/>Ocean duck starter was amazing, and it was something refreshing to clean your palate after, many drinks we had out on the balcony. Another note would be the amazing wine collection in the room we were in. Lamp rump was tender, pink on the inside and full of flavour. My partner had a barramundi and it looked crispy on top but was soft inside. She also loved it.<br/><br/>I'd personally come again for a date and Donovans doesn't disappoint.

Outstanding location with beautiful bayside views.<br/>Early week evening meal and friendly efficient service from all the staff attending to us.<br/>We decided on a number of entrees to share and also the same for mains. Great way to experience a good range of dishes.<br/>Oysters superb and fresh as were the prawns. The crab ravioli was perhaps a little underwhelming however the whole duck was just perfect accompanied with Duck fat potatoes and smoked maple bacon. Salads and greens were delicious.<br/>A really extensive wine list with some fantastic wines also available by the glass.

Extremely pleased with the food here! Ordered the barramundi and it's cooked to perfection! My friend had the linguine and it's delectable yet simple! I just love home cooked food made right! And the view was so beautiful. We went during sun set and everything was just lovely! Oh! Also, they have good cocktails! Service was really good as well! All in all, I was very pleased!

@Donovans <br/>I just can’t tell you how much joy I his place brings me, I want a beach house like this restaurants, it’s cosy, the decor is faultless, the food always consistent and superb, the service is always warm and professional and the wine on point! <br/>17 years and still going strong!!!!!

The view is beautiful however can get a bit of sun glare during sunset (between 6-8pm). The seafood was a bit average for the price I paid. It was quite average overall, so I won’t be back.

Visited last week for birthday celebrations. It had been a number of years since our last visit. But these were milestone birthdays to celebrate. And it was sensational. Sensational food, sensational service and sensational views. It won’t be years before we return again.

I went here for a friend's birthday dinner and had a great time! The service was great even though the place was packed, and the food was fantastic! I had the chicken pie and my partner had the baby chicken with veggies, both of which were scrumptious. The pie was the best I've had in a long time!<br/>We also ordered sides of chips and roast potatoes which were amazing as well. The drinks menu was not at the same level as the food, but there's a lot of variety for sure.<br/>You get what you pay for at Donovans and it is worth every penny.

An incredible night. Wonderful food, fabulous wine recommendations and service that will take a lot of beating. Thank you Gail, Kevin and your wonderful staff.

Donovans is located right by the beach and we had a lovely stroll before our meal. First impressions were the decor and coziness of the place; it was decorated with photos and furnished with sofas and homely pillows. <br/>In regards to service, we were very impressed with the promptness and attentiveness of the lovely waiters. <br/>We had the chicken liver parfait with deep fried sourdough, which was a first. I highly recommend that dish!! - Presentation was phenomenal, the crunch was superb and the parfait complemented with the compote and nuts was a stunning combo 9/10<br/>For mains, we ordered the rib eye (medium rare aka only way to have your steak ;) ) and the barramundi fillet. The steak was juicy and melted in your mouth and the garlic butter added tremendous flavour to the meat. The fish and miscellaneous seafood tasted very fresh and was beautifully accompanied by savoury components. <br/>Rib eye: 9/10<br/>Barramundi : 8.5/10<br/>For drinks I had the bazooka IPA and the waiter recommended the quité red wine from Spain which were both a memorable experience. I was however slightly disappointed that they did not have any beers on tap. <br/><br/>Overall our experience was pleasant and I would definitely put this as one of the top places to eat in Melbourne. <br/><br/>Keep eating, friends<br/>- Burnie D'Alpaca<br/><br/><br/>

We had dinner here last night and it was fantastic! Situated on the beach side of St Kilda, it is a very inviting place to have a meal. The service and the food was excellent. We had the linguini seafood and also the chicken...and the chocolate plate to finish it off was just the perfect way to end the night.

Cant beat Donovans - an institution.<br/><br/>Great decor, great food, great location, know the owners well - great value for the overall experience.<br/><br/>Professional or Personal a great day/evening out.

Another fantastic meal, impeccable service a relaxed setting with friendly staff and a professionalism that keeps me coming back over the years.<br/><br/>Oh and of course great setting and food!<br/>A must do for that special occasion.<br/><br/>;)

Awesome sunset view with great food! Enjoyed a really impressive birthday dinner there! Love the oyster! The old fashioned style chicken is delicious, especially the mushrooms in it, tasty! Oh, and the bombe Alaska! The waiter put a candle on it and even sang happy birthday:”>

Amazing beach views! A big space, good for all ages. Fun and 'beachy'. The service was friendly and the food was delicious, but not the best of the best. <br/>Apart from the the old Stokehouse, it is the best beachside restaurant I have been to!<br/><br/>👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻<br/><br/><br/><br/>

A thumbs down. Service was terrible. The waitress was slow, unenthusiastic and unresponsive. It is sad that a once truely legendary establishment has dropped its standards of service. To wait 25 minutes for bread and over 1 hr for a main course is just slow and a sign of old age. The actual meal was average at best with the fish having a really fishy smell and the bad taste the waitress gave us really spoilt the meal. <br/><br/>The people at the table had their food but just had a bad taste from the slack staff. Off to another restaurant next time.<br/><br/>The owners need to walk to floor and spend time with the staff and customers. The host ordered an expensive bottle of red and I asked for a glass of wine and it took 15 minutes to get poured the drink. Surely the restaurant wants to pour as quick as possible to get their customers to drink more ! <br/><br/>My wife asked for gluten free bread and the hostess forgot and we had to ask 3 times. <br/><br/>This great location needs the staff to really step up as this is the linchpin from making an average night into an OK night. Then we are reliant on the food after that. <br/><br/>

I am not sure if there is a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than sitting at the window seat of Donovan's! Eye fillet was awesome and the bombe Alaska for 2 was enough for 3 of us. Service, ambience, decor, location & food were all perfect.

St Kilda stalwart Donovans boasts a refined, seafood-focused menu and a knockout view of the bay. A pretty great place to celebrate your sister-out-of-law's 40th birthday really. The ravioli was packed with flavour--rich, creamy and satisfying. 👌<br/><br/>Pictured: Handmade Shark Bay crab ravioli, sweetcorn velouté, asparagus and finger lime pearls

Came here around Dec (yes, a bit behind in reviews), with a bunch of friends. <br/>Nice environment. Food was nice. By this stage, I can't remember who ate what, but the comments were all positive from everyone. I can only remember the Bomb Alaska for dessert. It was highly recommended by a friend. We were really full and still ordered this. Very very good. The wait staff knew her stuff. Able to recommend a wine to our taste and answer our questions on the food. We were practically the last to leave, but I didn't ever feel like we were getting kicked out, that they needed to close. That hospitality is a bonus to the great experience.

Divine dining! This is definitely one of the greatest restaurants in Melbourne. Fantastic ambience, great setting, amazing food and excellent customer service!

Back in Melbourne after a four year break in London called for calling into an icon and a favourite. It was lunch on Sunday and we're surprised we got a table at very short notice. Once in and seated it became obvious that the 'space' didn't seem special anymore. Tired and dated and very conventional was the observation. A very impressive wine list and a fairly interesting menu. It was a quick lunch we popped in for - shared some fab Sydney Rock and Pacific Oysters and then a main each. What was startling was the most uninspiring presentation of the mains. The produce was world class as usual but not the effort or ingenuity of the kitchen ! Great produce is always a winner. And it did win hands down. Cooking food to perfection is an expectation but cooking food to perfection in an exciting way was what was notably missing ! <br/><br/>

This is my favorite restaurant! Its casual beachside boathouse decor makes you feel like your in someone's home, to quote a fellow patron I meet in the Ladies. After perfect service every other time last night was sub-par as the waitress just wasn't up to scratch, seriously and hour and 20 minutes is just too long to get your meal in front of you.<br/>The menu is varied and has something for everyone and the desserts are pretty special. However after visiting for many years I reckon their menu could do with an update.<br/>All in all it's a great place to go!

Had the lamb shoulder for two, was delicious! Portion sizes were appropriate and staff attentive! Location is a stunner, right along the beach, view is great at sunset

My husband had dinner here the other week and we had a wonderful experience.<br/>The Venue is so warm and inviting and the acoustics were great. We could actual hear each other speak. Crazy <br/><br/>The dish of the day was the artichoke soup wow, the only bad thing was I had to share it with my husband he he.<br/><br/>There was a mix up in our order of our main meal but the staff were amazing and sorted it out with no fuss.<br/><br/>I strongly recommend this restaurant and it's our new Melbourne favourite <br/><br/>Thank you

I first heard of Donovans when the Bombe Alaska challenge was featured on Masterchef many years ago. I always wanted to come to try that dessert which is one of their classic dish. I read a lot of excellent reviews about the service and view from the restaurant so I was really looking forward to dine at Donovan for my birthday. Unfortunately I was a little disappointed. Firstly, there is no parking available and I has to call the restaurant to enquire where diners normally park and was told to park across the road at the Palais theatre. I had wrongly assumed there will be on premise parking given it's a fine dining restaurant. Then the staff at the reception was not very friendly ( not even a smile?) and no one offer to take my trench coat. I wanted gnocchi for main but was told it's no longer on the menu but was suggested ravioli instead. So my partner and I ordered the crab ravioli and seafood linguine with a side of broccolini . They serve complimentary sourdough bread and broad bean paste with butter. It will be nice if the bread is warm but It's cold. I requested for the bread sticks which the staff brought a whole stack to the table! The pasta is good but not extraordinary and could use more sauce and flavour? I've set my mind to order Bombe Alaska but changed my mind after seeing how it was served at the table next to me. There was no flame which I expected a bit of theatre and the waiter just abruptly cut the dessert into half and split into 2 side plates. We settled for the chocolate fondant which takes about 20 min to make. It's a very sweet and rich, both my parter couldn't finish one dessert. As it was after sunset, we didn't get much of a view either.

A company dinner bought me here. It was cold outside but warm and cosy inside with fireplace, not a bad date night venue. The white decor and wooden interior really suited the beautiful beachside location. We were there for dinner so didnt get to enjoy the views which would appear to have been lovely at day time.<br/>Great service, I found the service quite attentive. For example, they offered to store away your coats on sitting you down and were asked for appearance of it before return. The waitress also explained the specials twice as those on the other end of the table weren't able to hear.<br/>The warm oysters entree was something I tried for the first time, while nice, I still think oysters are best natural. The pork belly main was next, though you don't get that crispy layer, the pork melted in your mouth and went well with the cauliflower puree. I felt the only thing that didn't go very well was the green pepper relish, could of done without.<br/>All dishes were really well presented around the table especially desserts. A tip with the Bombe Alaska - recommend for 4 people despite the menu saying for just two. An enjoyable dining experience.<br/>

Absolutely love the food at this famous Melbourne establishment. Positioned on the waterfront, my suggestion would actually be to book a late lunch so that you can enjoy the view. The food at Donovan's is hearty and flavourful and despite being upmarket the portion sizes remain generous. The vibe of this place is relaxed and cosy and in my experience the wait staff know their stuff. Would recommend to anyone/everyone!

I think I've mentioned this before...I am a sucker for mussels. If it's on the menu, I'm all in. The mussels at Matteos did not disappoint. It was a decent size, succulent and juicy. It's served in a creamy sauce (shallots, garlic, cider, parsley and creme fraiche) but it wasn't heavy so you don't feel like you're about to pass out, even after eating the last remains of the sauce with bread. The main dish I had was the seafood and Moreton bay bug linguine with chilli and garlic. Don't get me wrong. It's good and you will like it... but you won't come back for it. The view from where we sat was stunning, perfect vibes for a romantic date night.

This Place is a Must GO!<br/><br/>Now this review and visit does take me back to the Second day that i was in Australia but a review worth writing and it was one of the best restaurant experiences i have has since arriving in Melbourne, Sadly the pictures will not upload either. <br/><br/>It was out second day in Australia and we was wondering around St Kilda looking at potential apartments, once we done that we wondered up to the beach and we were staving. So our 1st Meal in Australia was at Donovan's. I would describe this place a a classic modern Australian place, Quite pricey but well worth the quality products, service and everything else that came with the experience. <br/><br/>We may have ordered Starters and Deserts but i sadly cant remember. This review is the focus of the main, so after looking through the menu we decided that we would go for the sharing steak. It does look like its not longer on the menu but it was amazing. it was cooked as one on the bone for hours and then cut in front of us too form two steaks, one each. It was so Juicy, tender and melt in the mouth. Served with a mustard sauce which was yummy and we opted for the baby potatoes and broccolini as side dishes. All were hot fresh and just the perfect meal and the serve was beyond perfect. We had some beers to go with it and what i loved was after we finished the meal they had an outside garden so we were able to chill and finish our drinks with a no rush atmosphere. We was even brought water out and offered on several occasions more drinks. <br/><br/>One more thin, the Bread sticks we were offered as a starter/ entree. They were so good, rosemary and sea salt. Crunchy and yum  we have tried to buy them in shops ever since but never get close to these. <br/><br/>This place is Outstanding and it is one i will return too in the near future, probably on a special occasion though as it is a bit pricey but worth it. <br/><br/>Restaurant Type : Modern Australian

Having lived in StK for almost 20 years I FINALLY had my first meal at Donovans - yes it was expensive, but it was truly amazing. The pea soup is one of the best soups I've ever eaten. The roast lamb shoulder for two was one of the best roasts I've ever eaten. The service was amazing. The wine list was great and had good options at many price points. Why didn't I come here earlier?<br/><br/>It won't take 20 years to come back!

By the ocean, Donovan's is a really relaxing place to go and have a great meal. The food was delicious and a very good wine selection make for a really nice experience.

Wow the food here is amazing and the view is spectacular! The bombe Alaska was fab! We have eaten here on a number of occasions and loved it every time!

Yum yum yum. Food was awesome, customer service by every single waiter and waitress was amazing, such a cozy beautiful, homey atmosphere by the beach. Nothing negative to say.. would love to go back again on special occasions!

Perfect dining experience. The linguine and king prawns are way beyond my expectation so is the price :) the whole lunch would be more enjoyable if we have ordered the table by the windows

Located on the waterfront of St Kilda, spectacular views and very friendly service. However there was a long wait on food but it was well worth it as the seafood and desert were mouth watering. Definitely a fine dining experience and would recommended to anyone wanting delicious food and welcoming staff, perfect on a warm summers day for a refreshing drink or even to sit outside and watch the waves.

Fine dining, beautiful fresh seafood and views of St.Kilda beach. Can't go wrong with Donovans, deserts amazing, variety and friendly helpful staff.

Donovan's in St Kilda goes hand in hand with a champagne filled sunny Sunday afternoon. It's draw card is by far its location - situated right on St Kilda beach it not only offers incredible views while dining, it also offers a beach front deck scattered with lounges for diners to lap up the St Kilda vibe with a drink either post or pre dining.

One of my favourite restaurants for all the right reasons.<br/>Firstly, a restaurant needs to be a dining experience and Donavans has the whole package. <br/>Located on St.Kilda forshore you have beautiful bay views including a sunset, the decor is a perfect country/beach styling and the staff from start to finish are friendly, professional with a touch of personality without ever intruding. <br/>The menu has a touch of everything, brilliant steaks and Kate's homemade Gnocchi was the best she's tasted. <br/>It was Kate's birthday and the waiter found this out from the barman. It was mentioned without making a huge fuss and at the end of the night he brought out a free desert plate and espresso icecream for Kate. <br/>The perfect dining experience 🎯

We live nearby so we had been meaning to come here for a while now. We decided to go last night for our anniversary and I have to say, from start the finish the experience as well as the meal was just perfect! We were lucky enough to book a window seat at 6:30, we got to watch the spectacular sunset over St Kilda beach. Even though it was a Monday, the place was packed! We had the salmon and fennel croquettes which were a special as an appetiser, followed by the asparagus salad. Then my fiancé had the whole fish cooked over charcoal (last night was baby snapper) and I had the beef cheek. Honestly the care and attention to detail of each dish as well as how perfectly each item was cooked was a real treat. The beef cheek was absolutely melt in your mouth! The waiters and waitresses were so attentive but we didn't feel like they were over the top. Thanks Donovan's for an excellent experience and we definitely recommend this gorgeous restaurant to our friends.

To me, a good restaurant not only for food and ambience, but also the quality.of the service. This restaurant obviously can offer you excellent customer service for sure. Superior restaurant view for special dates with wide ranges of food and drinks which are memorable. Only thing i can say if they can be improved about the food favour or combination. Friendly staffing, would be more than happy to do something special to keep you happy, amazingly offered free small desserts plate without asked for it on your special occasion.

Love the atmosphere and mouth-watering fresh foods. I went to Donovans for business lunch and it was perfect choice. The service was excellent, nothing more or less. It was just right and enjoyable. <br/>Foods came quite late but worth waiting for tasty dishes. Highly recommended.

Haven't been here since the fire but all my previous times here have been awesome. Butterflied barbecued prawns are a big favourite but you could order anything.

Service was sooo sooo sooo good!!!!<br/>Waiting time for dishes was not long,, it was just perfect !!! <br/>Waiter changed the plate after the course !!<br/><br/>Dish had well presentation.<br/>But the taste is a bit heavy for me,, <br/>Too salty

I've been in Donovans with friends, we were surprised in positive. The service is very kind and not invasive, the ambient is elegant but not too much formal. The choice of food menu are a lot, the principal element of course are fish dish. Even if I took "earth" dishes. The artichoke soup is soothing of sublime, the duck leg confit gnocchi are gorgeous and the mushroom risotto is unique. I'm Italian and I'm usual eat in fine dining restaurant and I'm very finicky with pasta and risotto. We took also tartare, fresh fish from the grill. The wine and beer list is very rich as well with a lot of proposal, we took some beers and two glasses of Cotê du Rhon, even if the first two glasses had taste of cork, we asked for changed it and was so good. <br/>Special event or not Donovans is the place, amazing food with a particular attention for the presentation and is in front of the sea. I will come back of sure.

Incredible. Was expecting this to be more of your 'destination' restaurant where you go for the fame and the location but the food is nothing special. But Donovans food is fine dining at its best, and we were blown away! Everything was delicious and the servings are very, very generous. Very expensive but its Donovans, and you won't mind paying that much once you go home totally satisfied. p.s. the potatoes are incredible, so even though they come with the steaks/other meats, make sure you order more as an extra side for the table !

When you hear fine dining, you expect stiff staff members, freezing, museum-like restaurants with tiny portions and elevator music for 'ambiance'. Donovans exceeds all expectations of it's fine dining classification, providing an unforgettable Modern Australian dining experience on the border of St Kilda beach. The comfort of Martha-Stewart style cooking is juxtaposed by a trendy, gorgeous interior bringing you well into a modern dining experience - glass doors overlooking the boardwalk where the patrons inside look longingly out over the beauty that is our beloved Melbourne. Cool, chic and buzzed with happy laughter, Donovans was filled on the winter day I visited for my birthday with others celebrating their Sundays over a classic hearty lunch. <br/><br/>A decent Barramundi fillet seared to the crisp fell apart delicately when served atop the 'aqua pazza' and steamed veggies I requested (they're an accommodating team when it comes to dietary requirements). An extensive wine list complemented the delicious array of food offered; we found it hard to choose between the many influences that infiltrate the menu - pasta, seafood, rare cuts of meat and finely detailed desserts emphasise the appreciation of Australia's diverse multicultural palate. Starting with perfectly presented tuna tartare and Shiraz, my greatest compliment goes beyond the food - the impressive knowledge of the waitstaff who offer you a list of their daily specials you would expect to be simply parroted - on the contrary, wines that compliment the dishes, ingredient alternatives and suggestions are genuine and offered with concrete sincerity to Donovans' individual guests. <br/><br/>Certainly on the pricier end of dining, but there's nothing finer than an experience with these marvelous hosts and their delightful menu on a birthday or special occasion. Or really, any excuse you can think of to celebrate.

Wonderful evening with my friends and their baby and little boy. This higher rating is because the food was delicious but also because the service was outstanding. The wait staff could not have been more accommodating and even let my friend have a private space (their office) to feed her baby not that she couldn't have done this at the table. They had an incredible amount of patience. I had the chicken pie and ordered chips as a side. Seriously good pie with a flaky lid which they used to hold the pie contents when serving. The chips are so good. My friends had the rigatoni and the seafood linguine and loved it. We had the chocolate dessert which was perfectly cooked but I was way too full by then. The venue itself is warm and comfortable. Would love to go back.

This place is a little tricky to review as you're paying for the "view", the ambience and the service, but the food was average at best. <br/>I'm glad I can say we tried it, and all the meals we did try were OK (and by ok I mean they were nothing to rave nor complain about) but I don't think I'd hurry back there. St Kilda has far more exciting & delicious places on offer.