Why The Donovan Bar’s Cocktail Pairing Menu for London Cocktail Week Is Harmony in Every Sip

There’s a quiet hum of anticipation that always fills The Donovan Bar with each visit, that intimate, emerald-hued jewel nestled within Brown’s Hotel brings a new mix during London Cocktail Week, setting a soft and golden mood.

The new arrival sees Calabrese and the hotel’s Area Director of Mixology, Federico Pavan, join forces with the Michelin-starred and mind behind Trinity, Chef Adam Byatt, to curate a menu that finds the refined the balance between plate and pour. Together, they’ve created a dialogue and study in equilibrium, a sensory conversation between the kitchen and the bar.

In partnership with Bombay Sapphire, the collaboration unfolds as a series of perfectly paired moments. Every cocktail and small plate is crafted to complement and ultimately harmonise a celebration of taste and texture. Our evening began with the Tropical Fizz, a radiant long drink that instantly transported us somewhere sunlit. The blend of Bombay Sapphire gin, mezcal, St Germain Elderflower liqueur, Dom Benedictine, citrus, and Schweppes Tropical Soda was bright and aromatic with a whisper of smoke, a layered performance paired with delicate tartlets of beef tartare, smoked bone marrow emulsion, and oscietra caviar. The tartare’s deep umami and the caviar’s briny elegance met their match in pure alchemy. One of those rare pairings that lingers because it balances so beautifully that you can’t quite decide which element leads and which follows.

The experience unlocking another note with the Mai Cocoa Tai, a playful, luxurious twist on the classic. Built on Bombay Sapphire gin with crème de cacao, fig syrup, lime, and orange bitters, it delivered warmth and sophistication in equal measure. Matched with warm fig beignets rolled in orange sugar, the combination was nothing short of joyous and playful. It transitioned between citrus and cocoa with full indulgence, a perfect finale that left both palate and spirit satisfied.

What elevates the experience at The Donovan Bar is the atmosphere, that signature blend of old-world glamour and intimate ease. The staff glide effortlessly, their attentiveness almost invisible but always felt, anticipating needs before they’re spoken. Each moment curated with genuine care.

This London Cocktail Week, The Donovan Bar’s collaboration is an ode to the idea that true artistry lies in finding the perfect balance. Whether it’s the snap of citrus cutting through a rich emulsion, or the gentle hush that follows a particularly perfect sip, this is a menu that simply captivates, and aims to please, quietly and completely.

At The Donovan Bar, harmony has never tasted so good.