Donovan Bar: 'Happily Ever After' Menu

Client: Donovan Bar, Brown's Hotel (London)

Industry: Luxury Hospitality
Service: Storytelling, Tone of Voice Development, and Menu Copywriting

Donovan Bar

Every year, the Donovan Bar unveils a bespoke cocktail menu, inspired by a fresh, enchanting theme. This year, they delve into the realm of whimsical magic, reimagining iconic fairytales like Jack and the Beanstalk, Cinderella, and 101 Dalmatians. Each cocktail is a masterpiece, crafted to captivate, with custom narratives and illustrations that beautifully tell the story and reveal the ingredients behind every drink.

The Approach

In partnership with Five Foot Eight Design, we created the 'Happily Ever After' Menu, a fairytale-inspired cocktail experience that combined striking design with engaging storytelling.

Tone of Voice Development: We worked closely with Donovan Bar’s team to create a voice that was whimsical yet refined, enchanting guests with the magic of these classic stories while maintaining the bar’s upscale tone.

Menu Copywriting: Every cocktail description was infused with narrative elements that transported guests into the heart of their favourite fairytales. The storytelling behind each drink added depth and character, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Storytelling & Presentation: We ensured the menu wasn’t just a list of drinks; it was an experience. Each spread was designed to tease and excite, with beautifully detailed vignettes that complemented the bar’s unique glassware. The custom illustrations, paired with rich storytelling, created a sense of anticipation and intrigue for the guest.

Custom Illustrations (by Five Foot Eight Design): The menu included illustrations inspired by traditional storybook styles, with dark inked areas providing contrast and fine scratches bringing out specific elements, giving the entire menu a rich, engaging, and magical aesthetic.

Top 100 Bars in the World

Brand Alignment & Recognition: The 2024/25 menu helped further solidify Donovan Bar’s place among the top 100 bars in the world, reinforcing its reputation for innovation, luxury, and creativity.

Immersive Guest Experience

Immersive Guest Experience: The 'Happily Ever After' Menu elevated the guest experience by blending narrative with artistry. Guests were drawn into the fairytales and were able to connect with the story behind each drink. The attention to detail in the design and copy made each cocktail feel part of a larger, magical experience.

Increased Engagement

Increased Engagement: The storytelling and illustrations, coupled with the unique menu presentation, captivated guests. The anticipation for each drink was heightened, and the overall experience became a key part of their visit.

  • Concept Thinking

  • Content Creation

  • Tone of Voice

  • Engagement

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Why this Works

This project combined our expertise in storytelling with the stunning design work of Five Foot Eight Design. By carefully curating the words and aligning them with the beautiful illustrations and intricate details, we were able to create a cohesive narrative that enchanted guests. The magical experience wasn’t just in the drinks — it was in the entire journey.