New Owners Plan To Keep The Woodside Pub’s Beer Flowing
Patrons of Donovan’s Pub in Woodside can breathe a sigh of relief, as the neighborhood institution will continue to serve its community under new ownership.
Dan Connor, a neighborhood resident, and James Jacobson, a longtime manager and bartender at the pub, are expected to take over from the Donovan family as soon as they receive a temporary State Liquor Authority license, Connor told the Times Newsweekly in a Monday, Jan. 8 phone interview.
The Times Newsweekly reported in its July 19, 2012 issue that the location of the pub, at 57-14/16 RooseveltAve. off 58th Street, was up for sale, and that the buyer of the property would have the option to purchase the bar and restaurant, which has been operated by the Donovan family since 1966, or to close it.
“We started talking to Joe Donoby van sometime around the beginning of October,” he noted.
Connor and Jacobson closed on the deal in December and are awaiting the liquor license before formally taking control of the establishment. Connor and Jacobson-a 28-year veteran of Donovan’s-have been spending time at the bar getting to know staffers and customers alike.
“The response we’ve gotten has been overwhelming,” Connor noted.
A dress shop located adjacent to the bar-and part of the footprint of the property, has closed-and Connor stated that conversations with parties interested in leasing the space are ongoing.
Patrons may see some additions to the menu at Donovan’s, and the new owners plan to start accepting credit cards (the bar is currently cashonly). But Connor stated that staples such as Donovan’s famous hamburgers and shepherd’s pie will remain.
“We’re not going to lose our roots,” said Connor.
“It’s been a key fabric of the community,” said Connor, noting that Donovan’s has been a gathering place for Woodside residents for both happy occasions and tough times.
Connor also cited the ongoing charitable work of the Donovan family, including its work with nearby St. Sebastian’s Church.
“We look forward to continuing those traditions,” he said.
The new owners hope to plan a grand opening event that would double as a chance for Woodside residents to thank the Donovans for their time operating the restaurant.
