Anonymous
First let me start off by saying I HATE leaving a bad review unless absolutely necessary. However, I will start off the pros. The interior was nice and had an Irish feel, they have good drink options as well. Now the cons: At all costs I would AVOID the nachos, personally if you want a good nacho head on over to JP’s. To anyone reading this I truly feel the nacho cheese was microwaved. There was no hamburger on them or chicken -which my fault must have missed that on the menu, I did see the chili nachos.. but I did not get those, not a chili fan. But just throwing it out there. Best part of my meal was my seltzer, they do have nutrls (no high noons just be aware). They did have a leaky roof and some 5gal buckets collecting the water (which I get).. but just had that sitting in the back of my mind though. Also my waiter had no excitement or customer service skills, kept shuffling her slippers. I got the turkey club and NO seasoning AT ALL.. I was left with salt and pepper on the table (thank gosh they were full) they were not appetizing after my addition of seasoning or even before. Nothing was saving those. The person I was with got meatloaf and is worried “he might get sick from” the consistency was weird but kept saying it wasn’t bad (also a people pleaser.. so take that as you feel) would I recommend? Probs not unless your go to restaurant is closed.. but there’s always food at home.
… moreCT Ryan
We loved it! Stopped in multiple times the weekend of our nieces wedding. The bartender was very nice. One night we stayed until closing and got the guitar player to sing extra songs.
… moreJanice Banks
I was at Donovan’s yesterday. The food and service was great. Only one issue. The friends I was with wanted to take a picture on the platform where the holiday decorations were. I misstepped and fell on my knees. A suggestion would be to have some kind of watch your step sign in that area. Or maybe put some bright tape along the top of the step to advise people to watch their step. Luckily I was not seriously injured.
… moreRed (Redman)
Been here a few times now, last night was my first disappointment. Albeit the food was always good, I tried the Salmon for the first time, will not order that dish again. Mostly disappointed with the timing of my food delivery especially since it was not busy. My salad arrived first, ok, then just as I finished my salad our appetizer showed up followed directly by the main course. I was just commenting to my fiancée on how long the appetizer was taken especially since another couple seated nearby had shown up a bit after us, already had their drinks and appetizer brought out before my salad even arrived. The disappointment was our appetizer, Irish Tacho with corned beef on the side, had taken so long, appetizer arrived with no corn beef, took a few minutes to get our waitress to return to inform her the corn beef was missing, but mostly just as we tried our first bite the Main course was served. We ended up boxing our App to bring home. I understand when it’s busy, but it was not. Like the food and atmosphere so I will return and pray for better food service timing. Good local place with pretty good food.
… moreThomas Fortini
Review of Donovan’s Irish Pub, Springfield, Massachusetts
Donovan’s Irish Pub has transitioned beautifully from its original location in the Eastfield Mall to this new and upgraded space, delivering an enhanced experience while maintaining its authentic charm. Over the past nine years, I’ve visited Donovan’s occasionally with my kids, and I can confidently say this new spot takes the atmosphere and quality to the next level.
The Food:
The chef’s meatloaf entrée I ordered was superb—rich, hearty, and perfectly paired with mashed potatoes, gravy, and a side of broccoli. Before that, the pretzel appetizer was a delight, served warm with mustard and a creamy dipping sauce. Every bite felt freshly made and full of flavor. They’ve truly mastered the balance of great pub food with a hint of finesse.
The Atmosphere:
It was a lively Friday night, enriched by a two-man Irish band. One played the guitar, the other the accordion, filling the space with energetic tunes and taking requests. The music added an authentic Irish ambiance that made the experience truly special. The crowd was engaged, and the energy in the air was contagious.
The bartender provided his own entertainment with his “Friday the 13th” Irish luck humor after a mishap with some glasses. His commentary about staying indoors for Sunday’s full moon had everyone chuckling. The banter among staff and patrons was friendly and lighthearted, and it was clear that everyone was enjoying themselves.
The Details:
The venue itself is clean, welcoming, and well-organized, with a mix of table and bar seating to accommodate various preferences. The staff is attentive and kind, and it’s evident they genuinely enjoy creating a welcoming environment for guests.
This is a place that successfully blends good food, lively entertainment, and a warm atmosphere. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, Donovan’s is an inviting spot to enjoy a memorable evening. Perfect for a solo visit, a night with friends, or even bringing family along.
Highlights:
Live music that brings the Irish spirit alive.
The chef’s meatloaf is a must-try.
Engaging and witty staff who make you feel at home.
A great variety of food and drinks, with attention to quality.
If you’re looking for a place with great food, fun entertainment, and that unmistakable Irish charm, Donovan’s Irish Pub is absolutely worth a visit!
… moredavid galat
My first time here. I had sheppard’s pie and a clam chowder. Sheppard’s pie was delicious! I would definitely recommend it. They have a full liquor bar and outside seating. They had live music as well.
… moreseunga cho
This is my first time in Irish style. People are sooooo nice and sweet. I’m an Asian living in the U.S. and sometimes I feel uncomfortable as being not native when I go to a restaurant, but here I felt good because he was so kind and i got feeling I’m welcomed. I enjoyed the food, too
… moreJennifer McPherson
Just went to Donovan’s for the first time since they moved to Holyoke. We enjoyed them at their old location, but this isn’t even the same place. The view is beautiful and the food is out of this world! We did the totcho app, I had the clam dinner (best clams I have ever tasted), my husband had the Reuben (outstanding), and our friend had the burger which he was pleased with. Beer and soda were good, for dessert we had Bailey’s pie and brownie sundaes…delicious! The service was top-notch. We can’t wait to go back!
… moregail mignogna
The waitress was exceptional, and the food was beyond delicious. However, the wait time for the bill was a bit long, as if our waitress had forgotten about us. Not only was the wait time long, but the waitress gave us our containers for leftovers and our desserts to go, saying goodbye and for us to have a lovely day.
I asked if you still want us to pay the bill?
… moreMark Baran
1st timer & overall a nice experience. I had a reuben, which was really good. My son had the scallops & they were delicious. The space is small but nicely decorated. We enjoyed the live music.
… more