Dinner at Donovans was nothing short of exceptional. We were looked after by Johnny, who truly understands the art of hospitality – warm, attentive and effortlessly professional. Service like his elevates the entire experience. The food was outstanding. Donovans still holds the crown for the best seafood linguine I’ve ever had. I first had this dish a few years ago, and ever since, every other seafood linguine has paled in comparison. It remains unbeatable. I even had to meet the chef behind it. Chef Ash kindly came out to say hello and was generous with his time – friendly, warm and genuinely engaging. We grabbed a photo together, and my wife Claire commented that he was in an exceptionally good mood for a chef, which only added to the charm. A top guy all round. My wife Claire chose the Leader prawns, which were absolutely divine – perfectly cooked and full of flavour. From service to cuisine, it was an exceptional gastronomic experience. If you’re looking for a flawless dining experience in St Kilda, Donovans delivers every time.

Melbourne. The restaurant’s classics - gurnard fish, seafood linguine - were well prepared and presented, including the table service. They were enjoyable with the Prosecco that paired well with the courses while the goat’s milk cheesecake was a marvelous ending. The noise level from a packed Friday lunch was quite uncomfortable although the cool vibes and responsive service did make up for it. Still, one of two excellent restaurants by the seaside and close to the city as much as the views were limited.

On a quintessential Melbourne day, characterised by its three seasons in one, our friends and I chose to enjoy a leisurely long lunch at Donovans, ideally located along the St Kilda Marina Foreshore. Upon entering, we were welcomed by the friendly staff, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a luxurious beach house. The inviting ambiance, complemented by views of the sparkling bay framed by palm trees, set the stage for an exceptional culinary experience. We eagerly explored the extensive wine list and settled on an Italian Livio Felluga 2023 to enhance our meal. Our journey commenced with a delightful take on tradition: smoked salmon elegantly presented on a buttery oversized blin, topped with roe and pickled cucumber, which was a standout dish. The salmon tartare, infused with horseradish and anchovy, demonstrated the kitchen's skill in balancing bold flavors and was one of my favorites. Next, we enjoyed a medley of oysters...served natural, Kilpatrick, and in a tempura style that was accompanied by pickled daikon and avocado aioli. The Fremantle octopus was particularly impressive, featuring nduja, confit fennel, and preserved lemon, making it another highlight of the meal. The seafood linguine, abundant with prawns, scallops, mussels, and Moreton Bay bug, enveloped in a rich garlic and chili sauce, was a crowd favorite that truly delivered. The pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the ribeye fillet, served sizzling at the table and drizzled with garlicky pan juices, a mouthwatering classic executed flawlessly. We concluded our meal with several delightful desserts, including goat's milk cheesecake, apple tart, and Parky's sticky date soufflé. Donovans continues to be a cherished institution among Melbourne's who's who. Under the careful eye of Nick Parkhouse, this place delivers in every aspect, and to every level that one would expect of one of Melbourne’s finest waterfront dining experiences. If you’re in search of an exceptional venue for a leisurely lunch with friends, Donovans is a must-visit 10/10.

An evening at Donovans, St Kilda - where sophistication meets the sea. We began with cocktails to set the tone: the daring Scary Mary with chilli-infused Belvedere vodka, and the jewel-like Green Velvet. To start, silky chicken liver parfait, delicate beef tartare, and a rich, ocean-kissed seafood linguine. Each bite, a quiet indulgence. For mains, the luxurious spanner crab ravioli in lemon butter, a perfectly grilled T-bone, and a flawlessly cooked crispy skin barramundi — plates that balanced finesse with flavour. Desserts were nothing short of theatre: Parky's sticky date soufflé, light as air yet decadent, and the iconic Bombe Alaska for two, an elegant finale to a remarkable meal. Dining at Donovans is not simply a meal... it is culinary artistry by the bay.

Beautiful, cosy vibe the moment you enter. Staff were attentive, warm and down-to-earth. Food was served in a very timely manner, no extensive waiting at all. Food was delicious, each mouthful was perfect 👌 it was obviously prepared with expertise and attention to detail. My daughter and I shared 2 entrees, had a main each, and shared a dessert and we were very satisfied. They also added something a little extra when we said we were there for my birthday. For me, it was a lovely and memorable dining experience 😊