|
Robbie Levin had a dream. He saw a beautiful lodge situated
on the shores of a great western river. The lodge would offer
first-class lodging and fine dining to guests. They would
be able to enjoy their evening meal on the porch while the
sun dropped below the horizon. The landscape would transform
into a mystical wonderland in the sweet light of sunset. There
would be collective sighs and great happiness all around.
 His
dreams began to take form when he started traveling from his
Park City home to Moab many years ago. He, like so many people
who travel to this region, fell in love with the Colorado
River and the cliffs that hug the shore. By 1994, Robbie and
his wife Hope had moved to Moab and purchased the land, which
not only satisfied Robbie’s dreams, but accommodated
Hope’s need for horse property. A champion rider, Hope
lovingly tends her horses that populate the pastures near
the ranch. By 1995, the plans for the ranch were ready and
Robbie forged ahead with the Sorrel River Ranch Resort and
the River Grill Restaurant. Robbie designed the entire ranch
himself. Once built, Hope took over with the decorating. Hope’s
flair for creating ambience is obvious in every single room
at the ranch, and most notably in the restaurant. She has
filled the restaurant with antiques and western art. Oriental
rugs accent the waiting area, and a grand piano graces the
room. Even if you don’t manage to get a seat on the porch
for dinner, you won’t be disappointed with the gorgeous
setting Hope has artistically rendered inside.
It’s hard to figure out how Robbie’s background
as a professional musician and clothing manufacturer for 18
years prepared him to design and build one of Moab’s
premier resort destinations, but whatever the magic formula,
it seems to have worked. No doubt his enthusiasm and positive
approach to life played a big part in the success of the project.
Robbie laughs about the various incarnations of his life.
When asked if this is the last one, he says he’s not
sure if it will be the last, but it’s certainly one of
the most fun!
 Robbie’s
zest for living and excitement about his latest venture is
apparent when he talks about the River Grill, which is tucked
inside the lodge at Sorrel River Ranch. He loves to talk about
his great staff. He brags on his chefs and restaurant and
lodge managers. He doesn’t have to boast about the food
on his menu because it easily speaks for itself. Robbie, Hope
and his chefs have worked together to create a diverse selection
of appetizers, salads, entrees and dessert. The Chicken Justine,
a restaurant favorite, simply melts in your mouth. So does
the generously cut filet mignon. The seafood selections are
tantalizing, laced with fresh herbs and served on a bed of
pasta. Since Robbie is himself a vegetarian, he’s taken
special care with developing a wide assortment of vegetarian
entrees, too. An artichoke fondue can begin your meal in an
oh-so-wonderful way. And whatever else you do, save room for
desserts. All of the River Grill desserts are homemade. The
cheesecake is “lick your plate” good and not to
be missed. Homemade pies and flans will also tempt your after-dinner
sweet-tooth.
You have plenty of opportunity to dine at the River Grill,
too. The restaurant is open seven days a week, 365 days a
year. Breakfast and dinner are served, and you’re taking
your chances on getting turned away if you don’t make
dinner reservations. The River Grill at Sorrel River Ranch
is one of those dining experiences that blends amazing views
with great food and an enchanting ambience. You’ll hear
happy sighs all around. Who can say dreams don’t come
true? Not Robbie Levin!
© 2001 Moab Happenings. All
rights reserved. Reproduction of information contained in
this site is expressly prohibited.
|
