Renowned restaurateurs Mike and Jeffrey Mastro, their father Dennis Mastro and business partner Scott Troilo are excited to announce the legendary Durant’s Steakhouse purchase. With this acquisition, the Mastro family celebrates the restaurant’s 75th anniversary and begins a new chapter in its history.
Durant’s opened its doors in 1950 and has been family-owned ever since. Located on Central Avenue, this upscale steakhouse has been an enduring symbol of Arizona’s dining scene, offering steaks, seafood, and martinis in a classic red-velvet setting for over 70 years. One of Durant’s most iconic features has been the tradition of guests entering the restaurant through its famous back kitchen door. This unique quirk has become as much a part of the restaurant’s identity as its mouthwatering menu.
“To loosely quote Patek Philippe, you never own a legend like Durant’s, you simply look after it for the next generation,” Owner Mike Mastro said. “My family and I are thrilled with the acquisition and intend to bring a renaissance to this iconic steakhouse and expand its legendary status for generations to come.”
Durant’s has always been known for serving the finest steaks, classic martinis, and unforgettable desserts, creating lasting memories for its loyal patrons. Reflecting on the restaurant’s rich history, Jack M. McElroy and Carol McElroy, who have helped run Durant’s for many years, said, “It has been the honor and pleasure of a lifetime to serve the finest steaks, perfect martinis, and heavenly desserts to our extended Durant’s ‘family’ for the past 75 years.”
The legacy began with Jack Durant, Jack R. McElroy, and Durant’s four-legged companions, Humble and Socrates. What started as a small steakhouse in Wayne’s Midway on Central Avenue in 1950 quickly became an iconic fixture in the Valley.
The McElroy family, who continued the restaurant’s operation as Durant’s second generation, spoke fondly of their dedicated team and guests.
“We have been blessed through the years with outstanding, loyal, professional, longtime and cherished team members. Many of whom have become local legends in their own right. As Durant’s newest era begins, it will be led by the extraordinary Mastro family team. With their leadership and the support of the Durant’s community, we are confident that Durant’s legacy will continue.”
The Mastro brothers, who are James Beard nominees, are no strangers to the restaurant industry. With a proven track record, they own and operate several renowned establishments, including Dominick’s Steakhouse, Steak 44, Ocean 44 in Arizona, as well as Steak 48 and Ocean 48 in major cities such as Chicago, Houston, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Del Mar, Beverly Hills, and Newport Beach.
Jeff Mastro expressed his excitement about the acquisition: “It’s a privilege and honor to acquire the restaurant and preserve its history while enhancing its future for generations to come.”
As part of their vision for the future, the Mastro family will temporarily close the restaurant for renovations. The team will focus on updating the kitchen while maintaining the restaurant’s iconic dining room atmosphere. The team will also enhance the menu and bring their signature luxury service to the Durant’s experience.
The aim is to blend the restaurant’s storied past with a fresh, elevated approach, ensuring that the essence of Durant’s remains intact while delivering a new level of dining excellence. For more information, visit durantsaz.com.
