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Open in 1947 I love a good neon sign and I love the term "Supper Club".  We spotted this sign 6 years ago while traveling through Glenwood Springs and vowed we'd come back and check it out. Glenwood Springs in 2024 Don and I were back in Colorado in July.  We stayed at the Hotel Maxwell Anderson on Seventh Street.  Just a block west on 7th, we could climb up to the walking bridge that crossed the river. It gave us a good view of our hotel... ... and a good view of the iconic Supper Club and Lounge. Two buildings? I was confused.  I wasn't sure if dining would be an option for us that night. But I figured we could at least experience the place with a drink in the Lounge. The Lounge Section I wandered down from the hotel around 4 to get a peek at the place.  I passed the pink neon words spelling "Lounge" and paused at the rounded corner, to admire the glass block window. Love the vintage look! One Business or Two? I studied the patio space in front of the 1-story building.  There was a door opening to the "Lounge" building and a different door to the 2-story building, which held the "Supper Club" sign. It suddenly became clear that this was no longer one business, but 2 separate restaurants. At least the exterior had the '40s vibe of the ole supper club, that once housed a dining hall, bar, lounge and dance floor. "Riviera Scratch Kitchen" The corner restaurant's new name was written on the large front window. The words scratch and kitchen are not exactly words I associate with a mid-century restaurant. But I learned later that Chef Travis Owen has been impressing diners with seasonal scratch cuisine, since 2016.  The restaurant wasn't open yet, but I stuck my head in and noticed a tiny bar area to the right of the door. The bar section did indeed have a vintage feel, so I rushed back to report to Don. 5:30 We headed over a 5:30, hoping there would be 2 seats open at the tiny bar.  We could see there were already plenty of diners, as we headed towards the entrance. Dining Room The dining area was small, with a relaxed, open vibe. I so wish I could have seen photos of this space, 60 years ago.  I didn't spot a piano anywhere. I'd read that owner Jonathan Gorst, played regularly. But that may have been a previous owner. The Bar The bar was hopping and we were lucky to find 2 stools together. It had a fun lively feel, with a few dining at the bar.  I didn't catch our bartender's name, but he was pleasant and efficient, as he prepared drinks for bar and restaurant customers, while training an equally pleasant young woman.  Don and I ordered martinis because that seemed the appropriate choice, while sitting at a bar that's been serving cocktails for 77 years.  While sipping our cocktails, we looked for hints of the old Riviera Lounge. How many renovations in 77 years? Could we be sitting at the original bar? Was the mirror old? I snapped a mirror photo like we used to do before the days of selfies.
Then I snapped an equally lame selfie, to capture the musical note decor behind us. That piece of "art" has probably been around a while. The only thing worse than our selfie, was the blurry photo I took when I hopped up to make a trip to the restroom.  My photo barely shows the bumped-out space behind us, which was so much more curious than it appears. The cozy nook made me imagine Al Capone huddled over a cocktail, in a dim corner... Capone did frequent Glenwood Springs, but he died 1947. So unlikely he ever stepped foot in the Supper Club. Signs of the Past I took a trip to the restroom in hopes of spotting some hints of the past, along the way.  There was little to see. The sign on the door is not one we would have seen 50 years ago.  I got excited when I saw a framed photo on the wall. Was this a photo of the Riviera? I so wanted to get some scoop from our bartender, but he had his hands full. The photo hardly matches up, with all the windows. Off at 7 It was 7, when we finished up and headed out. I left feeling a little disappointed that I hadn't learned anything at all about the history of this place.  But the neon was glowing and that pleased me. More Neon Don and I headed up the stairs to the walking bridge. We had more exploring to do.  It was a treat looking back and seeing the blue and pink neon glowing. Hot Springs Bathhouse We crossed over the river and looked down on the historic Hot Springs Bathhouse.  There were still plenty of guests "taking the waters" as they did back when the bathhouse opened in 1888. Hotel Colorado We continued across and spent an hour enjoying the garden patio bar at Hotel Colorado.  The grand hotel was built in 1893, 54 years before the Riviera Supper Club opened. There's a lot to love about this old town! Back Across It was about 8:45 when we headed back across the bridge towards our hotel. Which opened 1915, btw.  And the depot! It opened in 1904. I clearly love dates. Good Night By the time we reached the stairs on Seventh street, the neon had already been turned off. The Riviera was closed before 9.  Since our very brief visit to the Riviera, I've been perplexed why I can't find more information. I wish I'd just spoken with a local or 2, who might have had some memories to share.
Mostly it's fun to know that we had a tiny Riviera Experience. The sign lured us years ago and we did sip martini's while that sign was glowing! Quite good enough!
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July Evening 2022 Don and I had one night in Durango. We chose to eat dinner at a gas station.  We had wandered by many restaurants, but none lured us the way this festive corner did. 11th & Main The Conoco truck was the first thing that caught my eye, on the corner of 11th and Main. Then I spotted food trucks and all kinds of outdoor seating.  There were tiny tables and long picnic tables to share. There were Adirondack chairs for sitting a spell and tables under umbrellas.  There was an interesting raised area, under a glass roof, with couches and curtains and twinkly lights. The Old Station I was most intrigued by the old gas station, sitting towards the back of the property. This old photo shows Ernie's Conoco Triangle, In the 1950's.  The station opened in 1953, but it wasn't the first. The Spanish Trails Filling Station sat along Main Avenue, long before. It opened in the 1920's. Ernie's Bar Today, Ernie's name is still connected to the filling station. But it's a bar.
I love a good theme and this Gas Station Bar was done well. We chose to sit right outside the bar. You can see Don behind the Dino pump. Inside Ernie's I peeked inside and it was a pretty fun space, with a '57 Chevy poking out of the wall.  I'm guessing that was Ernie in the portrait, high on the wall. Service The Service Station area had lots of open seating. The garage doors were open and I could imagine mechanics years ago, working away with a breeze blowing through.
There were old hub cabs on the walls and lots of framed photos of cars. I should have sat for a pose, on the fine cushioned seat, between the taillights. Bathroom! The restroom was pretty amusing! I don't know enough to tell you what that sink was made of. But I recognize the gas nozzle!
And of course the trash can was a Pennzoil can! Food There were good food options. Although not all the trucks were open.  The red truck named The Box, served wood-fired pizzas.  Avalanche Bowl Company served up rice bowls with different themes. Hawaiian, Mexican, Poke, Tree Hugger...  The Backwater Gourmet truck, served gourmet sliders! This was our Truck Stop Choice! Cheers! Nothing like sipping an Old Fashioned, sitting next the fuel pumps!  I enjoyed a glass of wine and then we dug into our sliders! Sliders & Slaw! We shared 3 sliders and all were delicious. The BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger was my favorite! It came with a huge crispy onion ring.
Actually the Apple Jicama Slaw was my all time favorite! The wet pile of goodie was slapped onto a sheet of waxy paper, with a plate underneath. That sounds horrible, but I loved the sweet and soupy concoction! Our little table of food and drink was just the right amount.
We enjoyed a nice evening, but next time maybe we'll enjoy the day. I see on the website it opens at 7 am! We can start with coffee and pastry. Then every couple of hours, we can try a new food and eat in a new spot. Can't wait! Mom & Pop Gem in Colorado While driving through Pueblo last summer, I searched the internet for a lunch stop. Estela's Mill Stop Cafe had good reviews.  Don made a few comments while following my driving instructions. "Are you sure we're going the right way?" he questioned, as the directions led us into a somewhat sketchy section on the south side of town. Near the Steel Mills It became clear that the "Mill Stop" part of the cafe's name was due to the cafe's proximity to a steel mill.  We could spot the green and blue restaurant just past the Cosmopolitan Club. This was defiantly a cafe that attracted a blue collar work crowd, but we also saw a family heading that way. Big Lot Across from the Estella's, there was a huge parking lot.  Professional Travel of Pueblo? Who knows? But the old building looked interesting. Dancing? If we'd come during dinner hours, maybe we could have gone dancing afterward.  Cosmopolitan's was closed. It looked like someone had had a good time the night before. They deposited their empty whiskey bottle in the gutter. Colors of Mexico As soon as we reached the door, we knew we'd come to a good place. No more worries about location.  We could see the place was bustling with diners and we also noticed the sign for New Hours. The Mill Stop Cafe was closed on Saturday and Sunday, This Mom & Pop business must be doing well, to be able to close for weekends! Full House The cozy cafe didn't seem to have an empty table or booth, but there were a few stools at the counter.  Don and I were invited to sit at the counter until a table opened. We said we were happy to stay put at the counter.  It took only a moment to pick up on the happy energy in the place. There were at least 5 people behind the counter as we approached. I couldn't hear what they were all laughing about. Estela? A young woman named Vanessa, handed us menus after we got settled. I pointed to a framed photo above the shelves and asked if the smiling woman was Estela.
Vanessa's smile was as big as her grandmother's. She said I was right and that the photo was of her grandparents. Both had passed away, but she pointed our her father and a cousin or two, in the cafe behind us. The room was filled with family. Taco Salad I ordered a taco salad. It must have had an entire bag of chips circling the plate.  I'm guessing that most diners don't order salad. The man next to me was a regular and he seemed surprised to see my dish. He laughed at the size and said, "I thought salads were supposed to be healthy." I'm sure it wasn't. I felt like I was eating a giant 8-layer dip all by myself. It was yummy. Don ordered the chicken enchiladas.  His plate was quite a blended feast! The soupy rice, (good!) spilled into the enchilada sauce. I stole many bites and we still couldn't finish. Sopapillas Vanessa reminded us to save room for sopapillas. Her reminder came too late. I was stuffed.  But I changed my mind when 2 piping hot, complimentary sopas arrived. Cinnamon and Honey It's been a long time since I've indulged in one of these treats. I put on my glasses to make sure I aimed the honey correctly.  I still made a sticky mess! I ate more than my share and enjoyed every bit! Celebrating I told Vanessa that it seemed like everyone working (and even eating) seemed to be in such good moods. I was impressed with the efficient and friendly atmosphere.  Vanessa admitted her family was in extra good spirits because they were just about ready to close the restaurant for 2 weeks. They do this every year around July 4th. Christmas too, I think. She said the business was celebrating their 40 year anniversary! As we headed off, I wondered what this happy family would do with their 2 weeks off. If the family smiles this much when they're working, I'd like to see them when they're relaxing and celebrating!
Highest Town in Colorado The whole town of Leadville looks like a movie set. But the buildings are real and you can walk into the Silver Dollar Saloon and get yourself a beer or a whiskey.  But I was already woozy from the elevation of 10,152 feet. We just stopped in for lunch. Heading In Leadville saloons get lots of interesting tourists. Luckily it was early when we arrived and there was only one motorcycle in front.  We've been to a couple Leadville Saloons on past travels. We've seen a few characters in these saloons.  I couldn't see much more than a reflection when I peeked in the festive window. The painted detail around the window looked a bit Scandinavian. I remembered something about painted shamrocks, the last time we entered this place. Doors and Floors We headed through both doors and I was as impressed as I was years ago.
Which was more interesting, the curious doors, or the combination of well-worn floors?  A lot of boots have walked across these old tiles. Evidently long ago, Doc Holiday walked these floors frequently. He gambled and drank here and in 1884, he shot a policeman... over a 5-dollar debt. Other Notable Guests Oscar Wilde was also a visitor. In 1882 he appeared at the Tabor Opera House across the street, while on a lecture tour.  The "Unsinkable Molly Brown" moved to Leadville when she was 18. She married and often came to the saloon with her husband. Which was a bold move, because ladies weren't allowed. Although curious women or worrying wives, could step inside the door and have a peek, if they stayed behind the "windbreak". That structure was good for keeping the winter wind from intruding, but it also allowed wives to see what their husbands were up to, without "entering" the bar. Old and New There was a lot of stuff decorating the walls and hanging from rafters. TVs and sports decor, reminded us that it was 2022. But mostly there were things that looked like they'd been on display for 100 years.  The front and back bars were definitely original. But, back in 1900, no drinkers would have been sitting at the bar. Instead of barstools, they had a foot rail and plenty of brass spittoons, Backbar & Mirror The white oak backbar and the diamond dust mirrors were mighty deluxe! Over a century ago, the bar and mirrors arrived in pieces, after traveling by train and covered wagon, from St. Louis.  I noticed the snout of a coyote (or wolf?) peering from above the rounded top. Booth! Don and I were ridiculously lucky to be seated at one of the 2 booths in the main bar. A rather grumpy bartender tried to steer us towards the back room, which had much less appeal. I sort of begged and we got our way.
I'm pretty sure I impressed her with my cowboy boots, which I had just slipped on in the car. (Sometimes I have to dress for the theme of our dining adventure) I was extra delighted to read that the 2 booths had once been train seats, from the very train that brought the backbar and mirrors to Leadville. They look more like pews to me, but I'd like to believe this story. Surrounded by Old Stuff I was pretty delighted with our booth. We had a good view of the bar and the people coming and going. We were also surrounded by lots of curious stuff.
I'm sure there's a story behind every item on display. But I didn't ask our server Elizabeth. (who was absolutely fantastic by the way) But Don did ask her about the corned beef hash. Breakfast for Lunch! Elizabeth went into great detail about how the meat was cut up each morning. Her enthusiasm won Don over. He ordered the hearty breakfast plate and couldn't have been happier.  I sampled his corned beef hash, as well as his fried egg, potatoes and toast! It was pretty amazing! Turkey, Bacon & Cheese I'm not sure what possessed me to order an open faced turkey and bacon melt. But I was glad that I did.
There was a generous amount of turkey and the bacon was thick and crispy. The homemade toast underneath, didn't even get soggy! We honestly hadn't expected such good food at the old saloon! Both were fantastic. Off We Go By the time we finished up, the bar was getting busier. A few people had started playing pool next to us. We dodged the cues as we slid out of our booth. We could have had a more dramatic end to our lunch experience, if one of us had been skewered on our way out!  We thanked Elizabeth, for making our lunch extra pleasurable. We left feeling happy and satisfied. We headed for the car and I took a quick pic from across the street. 2013 When I later compared to my 9 year old photo, I was surprised at how different the buildings looked. The Saloon looked bright with yellow and green paint... and shamrocks. The nearby buildings had no plywood in windows. This photo was taken long before Covid messed with tourism.  I'm so glad things are starting to look better with this pandemic. So glad we stopped in and had more than a beer this time! I hope others do as well!
Family Owned Since 1893 Don and I lucked into this place, over a year ago. It was located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of 8,026 feet.  We were traveling from Crested Butte towards Gunnison and it was time for lunch. When I spotted this place, it made me think of Lincoln Logs or Tootsie Rolls. I insisted we give it a try. Fly Shop The sign on the left read, "Almont Anglers". It was clear that that we could get more than food at our stop.  Evidently they sold tackle and fishing licenses and handled fishing and rafting trips. History? I'm still a little confused about the resort history, but I think it began with about 15 cabins. I believe one of the cabins had been the town's first post office.  This entrance looked pretty sweet with the screen door and flower baskets.  Once inside the dining room, I found a photo of the same exterior. (minus the porch) These folks look a little worn out in this photo. I wonder who they are? Knotty Pine and Critters I love a lodge, so the interior appealed to me.
I don't just adore dead animals, but they fit the scene.  The stone fireplace was impressive, although I would have preferred an open fire.  The log beams and Old Hickory furniture made us feel right at home. We have the same vintage style chairs at our cabin. We had the dining room to ourselves. Light Lunch Don and I were on the road, so that usually means light lunch. I had soup and salad as you can see.  This meal was over a year ago and I can't for the life of me recall what the soup was... or what Don ate. I just remember feeling cozy and comfy and satisfied. I also remember wondering where all the other diners were?  We finished our lunch quietly, while watching some birds out the window. It looked like a nice deck. I hope that during these covid months, the business has been able to make use. Now it's December 2020 and I hope all is well at Almont.
So, one more little memory to share as we isolate and wait for days when dining out is safe again! Wish I had some of that soup and salad and view, right now! |
The Dining Blog
This is a blog about Dining Adventures. Sometimes, I talk about food. Below, you can read how this started. On July 4th 2011, I set a goal to try 50 culturally diverse restaurants in one year! (I knew that was possible, living in the Houston area) I spent the year pulling in friends and family to join me, on some unusual dining adventures. I met some curious people, tried some scary foods and explored places and cultures I never would have otherwise. Even though I met my goal, I learned too much to end my adventures in dining. I have continued blogging about memorable dining adventures of all kinds, near and far... and all the discoveries and funny things I've learned along the way! Locations and types of dining adventures, are listed further down. Archives
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