Donovan’s Irish Pub Brings a Proper Irish Brunch to St. Augustine

Where there’s an Irish welcome, no stranger stays a stranger. That spirit comes to life in Palencia at Donovan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, where warm hospitality meets hearty comfort food. A true local favorite, Donovan’s has become more than just a restaurant, it’s a gathering place that draws families, friends and sports fans from throughout Palencia, St. Augustine and neighboring communities. Whether stopping in for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, a lively evening out or a festive Sunday brunch, guests are welcomed with friendly conversation, cold drinks and plates built to satisfy.

Beginning in April and continuing every Sunday, Donovan’s is adding a new reason to gather: Traditional Irish Brunch. The experience centers around an authentic Irish breakfast prepared by Donovan’s talented culinary team, complete with Irish rashers, sausages, eggs, black and white pudding, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms and Irish soda bread. A beloved staple, the Traditional Irish Breakfast is known for its generous, savory combination of dishes and hearty start to the day.

For Donovan’s owner Jareb Daugherty, authenticity was key, especially when it came to the rashers. Traditional Irish rashers are back bacon cut from the back or shoulder of the pig, giving them a thicker, meatier texture and rich flavor. Leaner than American bacon, which comes from the belly and typically has a higher fat content, rashers can be difficult to source in the United States.

“Sourcing the rashers was really important to us,” Jareb said. “They’re not easy to find in the U.S., but they’re essential to doing a true Irish breakfast the right way. We wanted to bring that authentic experience to St. Augustine and give people something you just don’t see on most brunch menus.”

The Sunday brunch menu also includes corned beef hash and other brunch favorites such as biscuits and gravy and chicken and waffles, along with bottomless mimosas, Irish coffee and brunch cocktails. Live music will be featured on special occasions and select Sundays, creating a festive atmosphere ideal for group outings, family celebrations, wedding weekend gatherings or weekends anchored around local events in St. Johns County.

The new brunch offering holds special significance for the family-run restaurant, a longtime favorite in the Palencia community. Owned by mother-and-son team Kristin and Jareb Daugherty, Donovan’s blends traditional Irish fare with genuine hospitality and homemade touches including desserts and rotating specials prepared by Kristin’s mother, a beloved presence in the kitchen.

Beyond brunch, the menu continues to blend traditional Irish fare with familiar American favorites, beginning with bold, shareable appetizers. Reuben eggrolls pack corned beef and white cheddar into a crispy shell, delivering a savory twist on a classic. Shrimp with Cajun ranch and baked pretzel bites served with warm beer cheese remain crowd-pleasers, while chicken wings, fried pickles and Donovan’s signature Irish nachos offer generous portions perfect for sharing.

Donovan’s Irish roots shine brightest in its entrées. The classic fish and chips features beer-battered haddock served with coleslaw and fries, crisp, golden and comforting. Shepherd’s pie layers seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, mashed potatoes and melted cheese into a rich, satisfying dish. The pot roast, made with slow-roasted Angus beef, carrots, onions and homemade gravy, delivers the warmth of a home-cooked meal. The kitchen focuses on consistency, fresh ingredients and preparation methods rooted in tradition.

Behind the bar, a wide selection of cold beer on tap, including a perfectly poured Guinness, completes the experience. The atmosphere strikes a balance between family-friendly dining and spirited pub energy. Weekly events keep the community engaged, with trivia, Thursday night Bingo, live music from local musicians and Wednesday all-you-can-eat fish and chips with half-priced Guinness drawing loyal regulars and first-time visitors alike. Holiday-themed celebrations and rotating specials add even more reasons to stop in. Large screens make it a favorite for Jaguars games, while Danny’s Place event room offers family-friendly seating and space for private events, group dining and gatherings of up to 60 guests.

Ultimately, Donovan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant offers more than a good meal — it offers connection. In Palencia, it stands as a place where neighbors gather, conversations flow and community thrives. With the launch of Traditional Irish Brunch every Sunday, Donovan’s continues to give the community something authentic, welcoming and worth returning for — a local staple where every visit feels like a proper Irish welcome.

www.donovansirishpub.com