Doney Restaurant & Café — Restaurant in Rome

Have you ever had such a great experience at a place that you simply must go back the very next day? That’s Restaurant and Café Doney, in the heart of Rome on the popular Via Veneto. Using the freshest local ingredients, the Mediterranean menu is tailored to fit the seasonal availability, ensuring each dish is at the top of its game.

The restaurant design is a unique blend of casual meets luxury. With large picture windows that overlook the famous street, gold crown molding, an enormous sparkling chandelier, and rich chocolate-colored chairs, Doney’s décor is upscale. However, there’s no air of stuffiness here. It’s elegance in a laid-back atmosphere which allows you to relax and enjoy the beautifully presented cuisine, delivered by friendly servers eager to assist.

I first came to Doney alone, in search of a something different from the traditional pastas and pizzas. What I found was something superior – a place all its own – with excellent service, and outstanding food. I ordered the roasted loin of rabbit, and the skill of the chef was apparent in how perfectly the meat was cooked. Served with raw artichokes and cream cheese flavored with the salty bite of Pecorino cheese. I ate every last bit it was that delicious! I finished my lunch with a traditional Sicilian Cassata, a ricotta cake with subtly sweet pistachio marzipan, and a slice of chocolate cake, moist and decadent, topped with a thin chocolate square and strawberry.

I knew right then that I would be back, and sure enough I was. When hunger struck in the morning, I headed to Café Doney, hoping to replicate my experience from the afternoon before. I didn’t replicate, I exceeded it – if that’s possible. For breakfast I chose eggs benedict with salmon. The eggs were poached to perfection. The pancakes were light and fluffy, and topped with fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, they were delectably sweet and a great accompaniment to the savory eggs benedict.

Two experiences, two meals, two different times of day. One conclusion: Amazing service, combined with a passion for quality Mediterranean cuisine makes Doney a definite place...

The dining experience began on a high note, with attentive service and a well-prepared meal. The food and drinks were excellent; I ordered the club sandwich with fries, while my party enjoyed other selections, all of which were well executed.

However, the experience unfortunately declined after the staff shift change. Once our meals were served, no one returned to check on our table or assist further. I had only eaten half my dish and intended to take the remainder away. When I approached the counter to pay, I politely requested a takeaway container. Despite the meal being priced at €28, the request was declined. The staff reiterated that no takeaway option was available, asked whether I was a hotel guest, and, after learning I was not, firmly refused again. Even when I asked if a bag was available, the answer remained no.

What made this interaction particularly disappointing was the manner in which it was handled. A staff member, identified by her ponytail and fair complexion, not only declined the request curtly but was later observed laughing at other guests near the coffee bar. Such behavior falls short of the professionalism expected at a property under the Westin brand.

While the quality of the food was commendable, the lack of follow-up service and dismissive attitude regarding a simple takeaway request left a lasting negative impression. Regrettably, I would not consider returning due to the poor service standards...

I'm not sure why all the bad reviews. The food was great (I had the tartare and linguine with clams). Both were very very good. I wished there was some table bread without ordering it, but otherwise a tasty meal.

The service was ok too. I live in Singapore, so maybe the expectation is higher here? I don't know? The waiter that sat me did seem slightly senior, where the other waiters were a little disinterested in my experience (but not beyond my expectations). I wouldn't have even included it in my review except to weigh the other reviews.

Yes, it's a hotel restaurant, so not really a shock the prices might be slightly elevated. But not so overpriced I wouldn't consider eating here again. There are other restaurants very near, so I haven't compared them yet for a 'same area' review.

I would recommend this place to anyone looking for a broader menu that isn't trying to overpower you with choice or spend a night going place to place.

Addition: they need smaller teaspoons for...