Rooted in the rich tapestry of Telluride history, The National breathes new life into a 120-year-old space that once housed The National Club; a popular sporting establishment in Telluride that was known for its lively atmosphere during the mining era. At the turn of the last century, The National Club was one of the first buildings on Main Street with electricity, boasting a telegraph for the latest boxing and baseball scores. Prohibition led to its closure, and after various transformations, the Last Dollar Saloon opened in 1978, now occupying the north two-thirds of the historic building, while the renovated back portion has been home to The National Telluride.
Built on the great bones that were already here, we pay homage to the previous restaurants that have been housed within the 120-year-old brick walls. Our menu draws inspiration from our predecessors, specifically our seafood section, championing the incredible meals that were provided here in Telluride, Colorado during the golden age of railroads. From Soft Shell Crab, Oysters, Black Bass, Spanish Mackerel, Green Lobsters and a dozen other kinds of fish, seafood choices were abundant as they arrived fresh from the coasts by train cars to the mountains. The September 20, 1901 edition of the Telluride Journal said “The best place to eat oysters and shellfish is at the National Club.” We want to embrace the history and return this sentiment to The National Restaurant in Telluride.
