Donovan's

- 138 Washington St, Norwalk, CT 06854

For residents and visitors in the Connecticut region searching for an establishment that flawlessly combines rich history, a welcoming, cozy atmosphere, and consistently satisfying American comfort food, Donovan's in Norwalk stands out as a genuine local institution. Established in 1889, this is not just another restaurant; it's a piece of Connecticut history, a classic American saloon and eatery that has been an anchor in the South Norwalk (SoNo) neighborhood for over a century, providing an authentic gathering place.

Donovan's offers a dining experience rooted in tradition, with a focus on delivering satisfying pub favorites and an array of drinks in a friendly, casual, and historic setting. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch, catching up with friends over dinner, or looking for a spot to watch a game, this establishment has cultivated a long-standing reputation for its commitment to both quality food and an enjoyable, community-centric environment. Its longevity and prominence in the Norwalk scene speak volumes about its enduring appeal and its ability to remain relevant while preserving its unique, storied character.

The menu at Donovan's is a celebration of American pub fare, thoughtfully curated to include a mix of classics, comfort food staples, and regional favorites, ensuring there is something to satisfy virtually any craving. Their commitment to offering great food extends to a diverse drinks menu, featuring an excellent selection of beers, great cocktails, and a variety of hard liquors and wines. The dining options cover all bases, including brunch, lunch, and dinner services, alongside the availability of dessert and late-night food. From the famous, award-winning clam chowder to satisfying sliders and hearty salads, the focus is on robust, flavorful meals served with speed and warmth.

Location and Accessibility

Donovan's is conveniently situated in the heart of South Norwalk (SoNo) at the following address:

• Address: 138 Washington St, Norwalk, CT 06854, United States

This prime location places it within the revitalized, historic district of SoNo, often bustling with activity and close to other local attractions. The area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, making Donovan's a perfect stopping point before or after exploring the neighborhood.

Accessibility for all patrons is a priority, as the establishment offers comprehensive features to accommodate everyone:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom.
• Wheelchair accessible seating.

For those driving, parking options are available nearby, although they are paid:

• Paid parking lot.
• Paid street parking.

The central location makes it a known landmark and easy to find, appealing to both local Norwalk residents and tourists exploring the Connecticut coastline and its historic towns.

Services Offered

Donovan's provides a wide array of services and offerings tailored to cater to various customer needs and dining preferences. The establishment positions itself as a full-service American restaurant and bar, offering flexibility in how patrons can enjoy their food and the atmosphere.

• Dining Options: Available for Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert.
• Service Options: Outdoor seating, Takeout, and Dine-in are all provided.
• Reservation Policy: The restaurant accepts reservations, making it convenient for groups and planning ahead.
• Seating and Service: Offers various seating arrangements, including table service.
• Bar Service: Features a fully stocked bar onsite with a great selection of beer, cocktails, wine, and hard liquor.
• Happy Hour: Includes dedicated Happy hour food and Happy hour drinks specials.
• Payment: Accepts various methods for ease of transaction, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Kid-Friendly Amenities: The venue is Family-friendly and provides High chairs and a Kids' menu.

Features / Highlights

The long-standing appeal of Donovan's is bolstered by a number of distinctive highlights, which collectively contribute to its reputation in the local Connecticut dining scene.

• Award-Winning Cuisine: The famous New England Clam Chowder has earned multiple accolades, including first-place championships in local culinary competitions, making it a must-try local specialty.
• Historic Atmosphere: Operating since 1889, the bar was restored to its original Victorian style in 1979. It features a cozy, historic ambiance, including a massive collection of vintage prizefighter pictures from a former owner, "Battling Bat Kunz."
• Excellent Drink Program: Known for a great beer selection and creative, great cocktails, catering to all tastes.
• Sports-Focused Setting: With its saloon and pub roots, the venue is a great place to watch the game, often listed as a highlight.
• Menu Diversity and Comfort: The offerings focus on satisfying comfort food and small plates, including signature items like the Famous Clam Chowder, Home Run Sliders (such as the Original Lobster Sliders or Mini "D" Burgers), Award Winning Chili, Crispy Chicken Tenders, and Famous Chicken Wings.
• Quick and Efficient Service: Fast service is a recognized highlight, ensuring a timely meal even during busy periods.
• Versatile Crowd Appeal: The atmosphere is casual and cozy, making it popular for groups, families, and even solo dining.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or to place an order for takeout, customers can reach Donovan's using the following contact details:

• Address: 138 Washington St, Norwalk, CT 06854
• Phone: (203) 354-9451 (Also available as mobile phone: +1 203-354-9451)

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Donovan's means opting for a guaranteed authentic Connecticut experience. What makes this establishment particularly worth selecting over other options in the Norwalk area is the perfect blend of tradition, quality, and community spirit. It has a proven track record, operating for over 130 years, and it serves an essential role as a historic gathering place in SoNo. The palpable sense of history, from the mention of its first successful saloon keeper and US Congressman, Jeremiah Donovan, to the unique boxing memorabilia decorating the walls, creates an atmosphere that cannot be replicated by modern venues.

For the food lover, the Famous Clam Chowder alone is reason enough for a visit. Having won multiple championships at Chowdafest, it is a recognized New England specialty that promises an authentic and exceptional taste of the region. Furthermore, the commitment to providing a diverse and satisfying menu of comfort food ensures that whether you’re craving a hearty burger, specialty sliders, crispy clam strips, or a fresh salad, you will find a quality option. The kitchen offers late-night food, catering to those looking for a quick bite after other venues have closed. The establishment's recognition for its fast service, combined with the comprehensive drink menu, makes it a reliable choice for a great dining experience, whether you are stopping by for lunch, enjoying dinner with a group, or just looking for a casual, friendly spot to grab a drink and watch a game.

Donovan's

138 Washington St, Norwalk, CT 06854, USA