Donovan’s Pub
Donovan's Pub (Courtesy of Queens Tourism Council)
At first glance, an Irish presence in the heart of Woodside in
Queens appears to be an anomaly in this heavily Latino enclave. But look closely and you’ll still find ties to the ole sod. Donovan’s Pub with its dark wood trimmed white stucco exterior is one such holdout. Just pull open the heavy wood door and step into Ireland for a wee bit.
You can either rub elbows with the loyal and sometimes boisterous bar patrons or head into the Celtic labyrinth of dining rooms illuminated with stained-glass windows and candlelight along with a fireplace for those chillier days. Pick out a tall dark-wood booth, listen closely, and you’ll probably detect some brogue in the conversations around you. Jack Donovan, a former detective, has managed the place since the 1960s. More than an old-school pub with an extensive whiskey selection, classic Guinness and Smithwicks on tap, and piping hot Shepards pie, Donovan’s consistently City-wide renowned burgers are the must-eat menu item. These juicy, char-broiled half-pounders, served with home-cut steak fries are miles away from fried fast food variety. Pieces of New York strip steak are mixed with ground chuck, loosely packed to a 1.5 inch thickness, and slow broiled to retain the juices.
Other menu highlights include fresh caught seafood dishes like broiled scallops, sole, baked clams, and their chunky pan-sauted crab cakes.
Open daily from noon to 4 a.m. Cash only
Nearest subway stop: 61st St. – Woodside
57-24 Roosevelt Ave., 429-9339
