"Top Chef alum Eliza Gavin plates New American game and foie gras in a refurbished 1890s home — a romantic Telluride anniversary."
About 221 South Oak
221 South Oak fills a tastefully refurbished historic home, built in the 1890s, a few steps from the gondola in downtown Telluride. Chef-owner Eliza Gavin began working there in 1999 and bought the restaurant in 2000; she went on to compete in Season 10 of Bravo's Top Chef.
Her cooking is New American with an eclectic streak — threads of the Deep South, Calypso, classical French, California and Creole. It is one of the defining special-occasion tables in Telluride, alongside the French bistro La Marmotte and the New Sheridan Chop House.
The Kitchen
The menu roams across seafood, game and poultry: a signature seared foie gras and a molasses-braised bison short rib, with a dedicated vegetarian menu and an extensive wine list drawn from around the world. The kitchen leans seasonal, and Sunday adds a brunch service to the nightly dinners.
It reads as ambitious mountain-town fine dining rather than après-ski casual; for a classic chophouse alternative downtown, the New Sheridan Chop House is an easy walk away.
The Room
The dining rooms keep the intimate scale of the old house — warm, low-lit and a little romantic, spread across the parlours of the refurbished Victorian. It is the kind of room built for a celebratory dinner rather than a quick bite, with a fireside calm that suits Telluride's winter nights.
Best for an anniversary
The historic home, candle-lit rooms and chef-driven menu make 221 South Oak a memorable Telluride anniversary, and the intimate setting suits a romantic first date.
Not for
Not for a quick, casual or budget bite — 221 South Oak is a dressed-up, multi-course special-occasion room, not a slopeside lunch stop.
Frequently Asked
Who is the chef at 221 South Oak?
Chef-owner Eliza Gavin, who began working at 221 South Oak in 1999 and bought it in 2000, later competing in Season 10 of Bravo's Top Chef. She cooks an eclectic New American menu.
What is 221 South Oak known for?
New American cooking in a refurbished 1890s Telluride home — a signature seared foie gras and molasses-braised bison short rib, a dedicated vegetarian menu and an extensive global wine list.
Where is 221 South Oak located?
At 221 S Oak Street in downtown Telluride, a few steps from the gondola, set inside a tastefully refurbished historic home from the 1890s.
Does 221 South Oak serve brunch?
Yes — alongside nightly dinner service, 221 South Oak adds a Sunday brunch. Reservations are recommended for both dinner and weekend brunch, especially in ski season.
Reserve a Table
Reserve at 221 South Oak
Booking via OpenTable; popular in ski season.
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Practical Information
Address221 S Oak Street, Telluride, CO 81435
NeighbourhoodDowntown, steps from the gondola
CuisineNew American
PriceMains roughly $38–58; tasting and vegetarian menus available
Dress CodeSmart casual
SeatingHistoric home dining rooms
ReservationRecommended
