SCOTT DW SMITH
mountain getaways
are constructed to blend with Durango’s historic ambiance.
When it comes to buildings,
perhaps the most photographed landmark is the Historic Strater Hotel. The
Strater truly does date back to 1887,
with the lush details of Victorian décor seen throughout the public areas
and guest rooms. A member of Historic Hotels of America, the Strater
enjoys the world’s largest collection of
American Victorian walnut antiques.
Fine dining is at its best in the
Strater’s Mahogany Grille, where fresh
ingredients are transformed into
eclectic culinary specialties. With the
abundance of locally-raised produce,
the Mahogany Grille complements
its legendary meats with inventive
sides, and takes that produce to an
additional level with a new vegan/
vegetarian menu.
The Strater’s Diamond Belle Saloon is
a step back in time, with live music
nightly (often vintage ragtime piano),
saloon girls and bartenders adorned in
period costumes and a convivial, oldtime feel. The menu is overseen by the
chefs of the Mahogany Grille, so the
food is of the same caliber, though tailored for the saloon setting, in