Buffalo Bill was no stranger to the saloons of Denver, and one of his frequent haunts was the Buckhorn Exchange at 1000 Osage St. This dining and drinking emporium has been in operation at this location since 1893; it holds Colorado liquor license No. 1.
Founded by Henry ”Shorty Scout” Zietz, friend of Cody, Chief Sitting Bull and President Theodore Roosevelt, the Buckhorn Exchange catered to famous visitors for nearly a century.
After 1,000-plus miles of fast-food, we jumped at the chance to join friends at this historic eatery that is not for vegetarians.
During a short wait for our table we had the opportunity to admire the Western decor. Hundreds of big-game heads cover the walls, along with Western paintings, guns and Indian artifacts. The walls also are lined with photographs of celebrated visitors such as James Cagney, Bob Hope, J. Edgar Hoover and Roy Rogers. Recent additions include former President Jimmy Carter and Chicago Bear Mike Singletary.
We started our meal with a hearty bean soup ($2.75), and for the main course we shared a 16-ounce dry-aged New York strip ($25) and roasted rabbit in a tarragon cream sauce ($14).
We could have made more exotic selections: The menu offered elk steak, a smoked buffalo Reuben sandwich and alligator tail.