Once a frequented Williamsburg cocktail bar, Donna closed its doors in December 2020 after nearly a decade in business. Now, the beloved worker-owned restaurant resurrected at its new home in New York City’s buzzy West Village neighborhood.
The vibrant tropically-styled restaurant pays homage to Founder Leif Young Huckman’s mother’s home country of Honduras. Sand-toned limewash plaster and white brick walls sport bold-shaped custom artwork by Moroccan artisan company, The Anou, while golden-hued light fixtures create a warm ambiance throughout the orange-colored accented intimate bar front and chic dining area. Sustainably sourced furnishings add another unique dimension to the eatery: reclaimed embroidery hoops hold woven paper shades, refurbished Douglas-fir wood comprises dining tables and pink-cushioned banquette seats, and even mycelium-grown (yes, grown) lampshades hang over the bar.
Donna’s refreshed menu features Pan-Latin-influenced small plates, tostadas, pupusas (stuffed tortillas), entrées, and desserts that are ideal for sharing. We recommend starting with the Fried Cauliflower with chorizo spiced whipped feta and Guacamole and Pico de Gallo served with corn chips. Regarding tostadas and pupusas, consider trying the Bean & Cheese Pupusa, comprising Oaxaca cheese, pickled peppers, and cabbage. Entrée-wise, the Roasted Whole Fish garnished with lemons or the Braised Pork Shoulder with za’atar and roasted cabbage are absolutely delicious. For dessert, there’s no bad option: Churros and Flan are our top picks for sweet-toothed diners.
When it comes to drinks, returning guests will be pleased to see the fan-favorite Brancolada (Donna’s take on a piña colada) remain on the signature cocktail list along with other classics, including the citrusy Draft Paloma. Other innovative tropical-inspired libations worth trying: the Lolo Avo — Charanda, Amontillado Sherry, avocado, and coconut — the Tiny Sparrow Martini — Vietnamese Gin, Fino Sherry, and Calamansi Liqueur — and the Sporty, Scary, Baby, Posh, and… — jalapeño tequila, pineapple ginger, and citrus — which all can be served as mocktails as well.
Plus, Donna isn’t just a stylish space to indulge. The progressive establishment serves as a forward-thinking model for the hospitality industry — where all employees are offered a pathway to ownership in the cooperative. And as another plus, they highlight woman-owned sustainability-minded companies, too.
From the refashioned restaurant, upgraded menu, and hospitality business initiative, we’d say we’re delighted to join the long-time fan club behind Donna.
Top Takeaways
Location: West Village, New York City
Address: 7 Cornelia St, New York, NY 10014
Cuisine: Pan-Latin
Price Point: $$
Takes Reservations: Yes – Resy
The vibe: An unpretentious West Village restaurant and cocktail bar with a lively tropical atmosphere.
Our favorite thing on the menu: The Roasted Whole Fish cooked to perfection and served with a side of rice and black beans hit the spot.
The attire: Smart casual
Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner: Dinner – Sundays through Thursdays starting at 5 p.m. to midnight; Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.
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