One of Phoenix’s most iconic dining rooms is welcoming guests back. Durant’s Steakhouse officially reopened for dinner in mid-December, unveiling a restored space that honors its 75-year legacy while ushering in a confident new chapter for the Central Avenue institution.
Now under the ownership of James Beard-nominated brothers Mike and Jeff Mastro, alongside their father Dennis and longtime partner Scott Troilo, Durant’s has undergone what may be the most significant restaurant restoration in Phoenix history. Originally opened in 1950, the steakhouse closed for a full year to allow the new ownership team to bring the restaurant back to its former glory.
Rather than reinventing Durant’s, the team focused on preservation. Every detail, from the dining room to the kitchen, has been restored. Guests will recognize the signature red booths, the iconic red walls, refurbished vintage neon signage, and even the freshly repainted pink exterior. The restaurant now boasts a brand-new, high-end gourmet kitchen designed to support elevated execution while maintaining classic steakhouse soul. Durant’s private dining room was also renovated and reopened – it had been closed since the 1970s.
“This was really more of a restoration than a remodel,” Jeff said. “We think everyone will be incredibly pleased that we preserved what was here and enhanced the restaurant. The look is every bit Durant’s with some upgrades that complement the legacy brand’s character, look and feel.”
Many of Durant’s most famous dishes remain front and center, with refined techniques and premium sourcing that subtly elevate the experience. the porterhouse steak for two, Durant’s prime rib, caviar service, lobster Thermador, and crispy veal parmesan all return, alongside sides that define the table: scalloped potatoes, mushrooms, and rigatoni vodka sauce among them.
“We have a great new porterhouse on the menu and all the classics that Durant’s is known for, plus a few new dishes,” Jeff said. “The food is very much Durant’s but even better. We have really taken it up a notch and can’t wait for everyone to come in and try it.”
Longtime fans will be relieved to know that the beloved porterhouse plaques lining the walls have been refurbished and rehung, continuing a tradition that spans seven decades. And yes, Durant’s will still honor the famous tokens that grant the bearer a free dessert.
Leading the kitchen is the restaurant group’s Chief Executive Chef Marc Lupino, working alongside Executive Chef Felix Ruiz. Together, they bring refined operations, consistency, and elevated hospitality to a dining room that has always been as much about experience as it is about food. For more: durantssteakhouse.com.
