The Donovan Bar at Brown’s Hotel — long a pillar of Mayfair’s cocktail culture — proudly unveils its latest menu: Our Way. Far from a reinvention, this collection is a celebration of the bar’s essence, guided by the timeless expertise of cocktail maestro Salvatore Calabrese and the contemporary precision of Director of Mixology Federico Pavan and his talented team.
Rooted in classic mixology tradition yet re-imagined with modern finesse, Our Way reflects the spirit of the Donovan Bar — where heritage meets creativity not in opposition in perfect harmony. This new menu is not about radical change, but rather a refined expression of the bar’s signature style and expertise: elegant simplicity, consistent excellence, and a deep respect for the craft and flavours. Drawing inspiration from the most iconic classic cocktails, each of the thirteen new serves reimagines familiar favourites with meticulous attention to detail. From thoughtful ingredient selection to precise technique, every element reflects a philosophy built on care, confidence and consistency. This is mixology not for show, but for substance.
Take the Marimo Martini, a Vesper-inspired serve with a dry, mineral edge and a subtle seaweed infusion — a crisp nod to Bond, but made unmistakably Donovan. Or the Bellini Colada, a Venetian aperitivo with extra refreshment in a textural twist finished with frozen cucumber freshness. Flavour leads every decision. Presentation is elegant but understated. The menu itself, designed to echo a bartender’s notebook, features sketches and notes that reveal the creative process behind each drink — a quiet homage to the thinking, testing, and refining that defines the Donovan team’s work.
Cocktail names hint at their origins while offering a glimpse into their Donovan evolution. The Eau de Martinez blends Seventy One Gin, Don Julio 1942 Tequila, Rinomato Americano Bianco, PX Sherry and a whisper of patchouli for a spirit-forward, herbaceous experience. The Margarita Blush introduces a magenta hue and a modern trio of mezcal, bergamot and purple carrot. Meanwhile, the dessert-like Tarte Old Fashioned channels the sweet savoury magic of ricotta, pear, and porcini bitters.
As Calabrese himself puts it: “This menu is all about refinement, not reinvention. It’s not about being the most extravagant — it’s about being the most consistent. At The Donovan Bar, we want every guest to know that whatever they order, it will be made beautifully, expertly, and with the same care we put into making their experience with us impeccable. That’s Our Way.”
Our Way is more than a menu — it’s a statement. It reaffirms the identity of The Donovan Bar: rooted in the soul of Brown’s Hotel, shaped by Salvatore’s legacy, and expressed daily through the dedication and creativity of Federico and the team. Every sip is proof that true innovation lies not in chasing trends, but in mastering the timeless.
This is Our Way. And it always has been.
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For more information on The Donovan Bar, visit The Donovan Bar
About Brown’s Hotel
Brown’s Hotel, part of the Rocco Forte Hotels Group, is the epitome of British elegance and luxury. Located in the heart of Mayfair, it boasts 115 beautifully designed rooms and suites, each crafted by Olga Polizzi. Known for its rich history and exceptional service, the hotel offers a range of exquisite dining experiences, including Charlie’s restaurant and The Donovan Bar, making it a true London landmark.
About Rocco Forte Hotels
Established by Sir Rocco Forte and his sister, Olga Polizzi in 1996, Rocco Forte Hotels is a collection of 15 individual hotels, resorts, residences and villas. All of the hotels are landmarks, both old and new, occupying magnificent buildings in exceptional locations. Led by a family who has been in hospitality for four generations, the hotels are united by their distinctive approach to service ensuring guests experience the best of the cities and surrounding areas. Rocco Forte Hotels comprises: Rocco Forte House, Milan; Hotel de la Ville, Hotel de Russie and Rocco Forte House, Rome; Hotel Savoy, Florence; Verdura Resort, Rocco Forte Private Villas and Villa Igiea, Sicily; Masseria Torre Maizza, Puglia; The Balmoral, Edinburgh; Brown’s Hotel, London; The Charles Hotel, Munich; Hotel de Rome, Berlin; Hotel Amigo, Brussels and Hotel Astoria, St Petersburg. Future openings: The Carlton, Milan in 2025; Costa Smeralda, Sardinia in 2026; Palazzo Sirignano, Naples in 2027 and Palazzo Castelluccio, Noto, Sicily in 2026
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