Donovans

The site of Donovans was one of three original bathing houses built in 1920 on the St Kilda foreshore. The main purpose of the bathing houses was to provide separate facilities for men and women visiting the beach. Interestingly, the bathing houses were not open to the public on Sundays, now the most popular day for a stroll, swim or lunch while visiting St Kilda beach.

Sixty years on, the rarely used changing rooms became run down so the local council decided to put the building up for tender as a restaurant, an innovative concept at the time. The refurbished bathing house was reopened in 1986 and operated as Jean Jacques by the Sea. In 1995, Jean Jacques offered the business for sale and Kevin and Gail Donovan were lucky enough to purchase it.

Private Dining Room

Our Private Dining Room is the perfect space for an intimate gathering for any occasion and can comfortably accommodate up to 26 guests on one table.

The floor to ceiling windows offer superb views of St Kilda Beach and the Port Phillip Bay. Glass doors open directly onto the adjoining outdoor Terrace which is exclusively for your use and a perfect setting for pre-dinner drinks (weather dependant).