Phoenix's dining scene is about to welcome back a storied gem as Durant’s Steakhouse prepares to swing open its doors once again on Dec. 17. The historic restaurant has undergone a restoration process that promises to retain its classic charm while introducing a touch of modernity. According to FOX 10 Phoenix, co-owner Jeffrey Mastro emphasized the challenge and commitment involved in the effort stating, "It’s so hard to upgrade a restaurant and have it continue for two, three, four years, but to have a restaurant that’s been in business 75 years, now we have it and [we're] gonna keep doing what we’re doing and go from there."
The restoration, which kicked off after new ownership took over, aims to meticulously restore rather than to broadly remodel, in a move that seeks to honor the establishment's deep-rooted history. Regulars of Durant’s can rest easy knowing that iconic features like the kitchen entrance, red wallpaper, and dark wood touches remain unaltered. "We wanted Durant's," co-owner Scott Troilo shared in an interview with 12 News. "We just wanted to refresh it a little bit and keep it to what it was."
The menu, a core aspect of Durant’s identity, will continue to feature its classic steakhouse offerings. Guests can look forward to the return of beloved dishes such as Lobster Thermador and Prime Rib, alongside new additions like veal parmesan, sure to make a statement on the dinner plate. The culinary balance draws on a strategy to maintain the nostalgic pull of the restaurant while beckoning diners with fresh selections. The Chef conveyed to FOX 10 Phoenix the significance of responding to patrons' desires, "We had to listen to what the guests were saying, everyone that was calling in, and keep those items they really wanted: prime rib, spinach dip, strawberry shortcake, and at the same time add more options, more sides, more steaks, so people have more when they come in."
Despite already running a suite of high-end restaurants, Mastro and Troilo acknowledge the unique pressure associated with resurrecting such a landmark. "We’re nervous. I mean, every new restaurant’s a new challenge, so yes. It’s nervous and also excited," Troilo told 12 News. With such anticipation building, the historic steakhouse seems situated to not just carry on its legacy, but to also elevate it, serving both longtime admirers and a new generation of patrons seeking to partake in Phoenix culinary history.
