Most Loved Family Restaurant in East Boston

It All Started Back in 1993

In 1993, when my grandfather, Jerry Zullo, decided to open up a breakfast and lunch restaurant in East Boston, Donna's Restaurant was born. Being a restaurant owner and pioneer for over 50 years, my grandfather’s knowledge and expertise came to fruition, making Donna's restaurant what it is today. It goes without saying that he named it after daddy's little girl, Donna.

Since my mother, Donna, was ten, she has been serving people in every family restaurant my grandfather ever owned. From bussing tables to waitressing, my mother thrived on making each person that walked through the front door happy and satisfied. Many of my family members also worked together throughout the years, including many uncles and cousins.

Donna's Restaurant is a well-known, family breakfast and lunch spot embedded in the heart of Orient Heights. Just a block away from the blue line, and a mile from Logan airport, we serve friends and neighbors, as well as visitors from all over the world. From our mouthwatering eggs benedict and fluffy pancakes to the Disney murals covering the walls, we are a dedicated family restaurant that takes pride in making Donna's a real family atmosphere.

First, there's my grandmother Loretta, a devoted counterpart to my grandfather for over sixty years. As his wife and best friend, my grandmother has been on my grandfather's side since the time he opened the door to his very first restaurant. Even today, she spends her days working at Donna's, serving people the same way she did 50 years ago. Then there's my father Rick, who has been a chef for over thirty years, working as my grandfather's "right-hand man" before my parents were even married.

His ingredients and experience in the kitchen are what make our food "the best around." My sister, Michela, has been a waitress at Donna's since she was twelve. Now at thirty-two, her bubbly personality and smile are more significant than ever, serving customers that say, "you're your mother’s twin." As for me, seeing regulars as well as meeting new people makes my day. I love going to work every day, whether it's whipping up bacon and eggs, or pouring a cup of hot coffee, its a joy and an honor to be part of the family tradition. Making my family proud, as well as our loyal guests is what gives me more satisfaction than anything else.

As for my mother, Donna, she is the captain of the ship, the leader of the pack. She is delightful and the perfect remedy to the start of a beautiful day. From her charming ways to her forty years of duty, she is one-of-a-kind. Her picture is next to the words hard work and dedication in the dictionary and is called "auntie" by many children that stop in for a delicious breakfast with their loved ones.

My grandfather, Jerry, built an empire for his family. Donna's wouldn't exist if it weren't for his willingness to work and his gigantic heart. He was known to everyone as a genuine, kind, warm-hearted man that did everything for everyone he encountered throughout his life. One of his wishes, before he passed away, was to continue the family tradition of making people happy. To this day, and for many years to come, our family will grant his wish and continue to make Donna's Restaurant the place for families to go and have an unforgettable experience.

-Daniel Marquardo