Sardinian born Pietro Addis opened Pinocchio in 1987 and it was a success from the beginning. Proving its policy of offering affordable meals using top quality ingredients and cooking everything in-house was right, so much so, this continues unchanged today.

He launched the “new concept” of 2-course and 3-course set menus in Brighton, which most restaurants now offer today and battled the Council to allow outside eating and drinking, which has proven to be a major asset to the restaurants and the city as a whole, during the warmer days and months.

Donatello original building.

Donatello opened in 1991 and has grown from the original 100-seater restaurant to over 300 by acquiring several buildings around it. It is a 24 hour operation with cleaners and chefs working throughout the night to be ready for the next day!

The changing front of Donatello left to right to our existing frontage now.

Now his three sons run the business, employing around 100 staff, and having worked in the restaurants since teenagers continue the family-run tradition. They strongly believe that supporting the community is an integral part of the business and have sponsored Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. and the local Arts and Charities for many years.

Over the years we have served many celebrities and Brightonians alike, have you got an interesting story you would like to share about Donatello or Pinocchio? We would love to hear from you just use the contact us form below and let us know your funny story or anecdote, maybe you met you partner at Donatello? Whatever your reason is for loving Donatello let us know.