A DOSE OF NOSTALGIA & ADRENALINE
The first duo to kick off the menu is Red (right) and Adrenaline (left). Red’s initial salty, savoury taste is cleared by smoky mezcal, revealing vibrant red peppers, and a finish of tequila laced with chilli liquor. The fiery red pepper represents all ideology of the colour and holds many passions of emotion. Complementing Red is Adrenaline – Old Tom Gin, Lucano Anniversario, Liquorice, Grand Marnier and Balsamic Vinegar. Representing the motion of adrenaline coursing through your veins, the vibrant burst of citrus is enhanced by an energetic buzz from the gin.
RED
Created using Patron Reposado, Amaro Santoni, Ancho Reyes, Red Bell Pepper, Montelobos Mezcal and Bubbles, Red was inspired by the traditional Italian saying “diventare rosso come un peperone”, otherwise known as “why are you blushing?”
NEW & TIMELESS
Wonder and (In)decision follow – created with Patron Silver Tequila, Acqua Bianca Framboise, Coconut, Raspberry and Citric, Wonder provides a moment to impress, and this cocktail certainly continues to do just that. Initially welcomed with coconut on the palate, the nutty hum is followed by raspberry before a bittersweet blanched chocolate. (In)decision reflects a situation we are faced with daily – “which one to go for?”. The delicious combination of Pisco, Campari, Theorie Cuoir Lontain, Rose and Le Soda Water result in a delightful treat that can’t be missed.
The Maestro’s passion for martinis is honoured with Martini Roots (right) – a savoury sensation made with a choice of Belvedere Vodka or An Dúlamán Gin, Tomato, Fortified Wine, Grana Padano, Bread and “Olive”. On the other side of the menu is Comfort Zone, a harmonious and smooth creation that celebrates floral and vegetal flavours using Bacardi Reserva Ocho, Plum Elderflower, acidified Celery and Bareksten Absinthe. Also featured on the menu are Tradewind and Escape From Reality, Deep Blue paired with Gratitude, and the duo of Bosco and Big Smoke.
Sign up for the LF Italy newsletter
Access The Rare and Wonderful, LF Italy’s monthly newsletter. Get our latest interviews and discoveries in wellness, travel, innovation, food & drink, unique stays and more.
Alongside the new drinks will feature some timeless classics from The Donovan Bar, such as Sparkling Side of The Moon, the Gran Torino, and The Maestro’s iconic creation – The Breakfast Martini. Guests will also find an exclusive collection of some of the rarest spirits in the world on the Vintage Menu. Created using these treasured rarities, cocktails are priced from £120 – £5,500 and include the Aviation, The 1837, and the famous Salvatore’s Legacy made with 1788 Clos de Griffier Vieux cognac, 1770 Kummel liqueur, c1860 Dubb Orange liqueur and c1930 Angostura bitters.
MARTINI ROOTS
The Maestro’s passion for martinis is honoured with Martini Roots – a savoury sensation made with a choice of Belvedere Vodka or An Dúlamán Gin, Tomato, Fortified Wine, Grana Padano, Bread and “Olive”. This perfect balance of rich and fresh is the true taste of home. On the other side of the menu is Comfort Zone, a harmonious and smooth creation that celebrates floral and vegetal flavours using Bacardi Reserva Ocho, Plum Elderflower, acidified Celery and Bareksten Absinthe.
“How do we conjure up emotions through a drink? Easy, by dreaming.”
— The Maestro Salvatore Calabrese
The Donovan Bar is situated in the renowned Brown’s Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel, located on Albemarle Street, one of the most prestigious streets in Mayfair. The hotel, which opened in 1832, has hosted many famous guests over the years and is the location where Alexander Graham Bell made the first ever UK telephone call. President Roosevelt stayed at the hotel during his honeymoon and both Agatha Christie and Rudyard Kipling were regular guests. Since opening in 2018, The Donovan Bar has gone on to win several awards including the Best Bar at the Virtuoso Best of the Best Awards in 2018. It has also been included in The World’s 50 Best Bars ’51-100 list’ in 2022 and 2023.
BIG SMOKE
Indulge in a zesty escape with Grey Goose Vodka, Sesame, Mandarin, Muyu Vetiver Gris, Lime, and a touch of ‘Smoke’—a tantalizing blend of sharp, citrusy flavors that offer a refreshing respite from the everyday drudge.
Federico Pavan, Director of Mixology at the Donovan Bar
