Go Back to the 1880's in Crested Butte, Colorado - The Slogar

In the heart of Crested Butte, Colorado, nestled among colorful Victorian buildings and beneath the towering peaks of the Elk Mountains, lies a culinary time machine known as The Slogar. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1882, The Slogar isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience that transports diners to the rustic charm and traditions of the Old West. Every creaky floorboard, oil lamp, and timeworn photograph contributes to a sense that you’ve stepped back into the 19th century.

The Slogar has made a name for itself by honoring its roots, both in décor and in menu. Their claim to fame? A legendary skillet-fried chicken dinner served family-style, just as it would have been served to hungry miners and cowboys in the 1880s. This isn’t trendy fried chicken—it’s heirloom fried chicken, marinated for hours in a buttermilk brine, fried in cast iron, and served with reverence and consistency. The result is tender, flavorful meat with a perfectly crisped skin that has locals and visitors alike returning again and again. But the experience starts long before the chicken hits your plate. Each dinner at The Slogar begins with homemade cole slaw and sweet, tangy pickled beet slices, followed by piping-hot baking powder biscuits with rich, cinnamon-laced apple butter. It’s a procession of comfort food, slow and deliberate, encouraging diners to relax and soak in the atmosphere. No one is rushed here—because no one wants to be.

Once the main course arrives, it’s a spread worthy of a mining town feast. Alongside the famous skillet-fried chicken, you’ll find mashed potatoes drenched in creamy gravy, buttery corn, and a helping of stewed green beans with bits of ham—recipes that haven’t changed in decades. Each bite speaks of tradition, heritage, and the slow-cooked comfort of simpler times. And yes, seconds are encouraged. The Slogar has remained faithful to its roots by keeping its menu limited, but perfectly executed. While the chicken is the star, those craving variety can opt for a juicy baked ham dinner, which is equally steeped in old-fashioned flavor. Meals are served with bottomless helpings, so no one leaves hungry. And dessert? A scoop of vanilla ice cream with warm, homemade chocolate sauce—a humble but delightful finish.

Beyond the food, the ambiance is what sets The Slogar apart. The dining rooms glow with warm light from vintage fixtures, and antique photos tell the story of Crested Butte’s coal-mining past. It’s quiet, intimate, and devoid of distractions like televisions or modern music. Here, conversation flows, laughter echoes off the old brick walls, and memories are made around long wooden tables.

It’s clear that The Slogar is more than just a restaurant—it’s a living museum of Crested Butte’s early days. In a town that has transformed into a bustling destination for skiers, hikers, and artists, The Slogar remains grounded in the values of hospitality, hearty food, and historic preservation. It’s a reminder of the hard-working, resilient spirit of the people who once called this rugged landscape home.

Whether you’re a tourist seeking an authentic Colorado meal or a local celebrating a family tradition, The Slogar offers an unforgettable experience. There’s something remarkably comforting about knowing that, in an ever-changing world, there’s still a place where a cast-iron skillet and a bowl of stewed green beans reign supreme.

So when in Crested Butte, carve out an evening to step back into the 1880s. Bring your appetite, your curiosity, and your appreciation for history. The Slogar doesn’t just feed your stomach—it feeds your soul with a generous serving of nostalgia, tradition, and warm Colorado hospitality.

517 2nd St, Crested Butte, CO 81224

(970) 784-6606

https://www.slogarcrestedbutte.com/