Donovan's Pub

Woodsides Landmark Gathering Place came to life in 1966 when a New York City Firefighter named Joe Donovan, with the help of his father, purchased the Clover Leaf Bar on the corner of 58th Street and Roosevelt Avenue. It didnt take long for Donovans to become a favorite with the heavily Irish community. Joe Donovan became well known throughout Woodside, especially with his neighbors across the street at St. Sebastian. With good food at fair prices Donovans Pub soon became the gathering place for everything from a quick drink to large family gatherings celebrating life. The cozy Pub offered a warm welcome, Properly Poured pints of Guinness and a hot meal in the welcoming room with a fireplace. No wonder it reminded the locals of similar pubs back home in Ireland. As the business grew the size of the staff grew with it. Donovans has employed hundreds of people as managers, bartenders, waitresses, busboys, kitchen staff and cleaners. Many of the staff grew up in the neighborhood, went to local schools and held jobs in the Pub form high school through college and beyond. There was always a sense of family in the restaurant. The Pub grew quickly over the years expanding to its current 4 dining rooms that accommodate parties of all sizes. The Pub literally became a family business when Joes brother became full-time manager. Jack Donovan, a retired New York City police officer, presided over Donovans Pub in Woodside and he and Joes children grew up in the business filling in where needed. It was a truism that there was always a Donovan in their namesake Pub. The restaurant quickly became a neighborhood favorite, especially in the eyes of the local Irish Americans. It was the go-to place for a traditional Irish meal of meat and potatoes, and the affordable prices didnt hurt either. A deep-rooted loyalty was established among the locals. To this day, many of Donovans patrons are the regulars who have been coming by for a drink and some food for decades. The walls in Donovans