Buckhorn Exchange

Buckhorn Exchange, which is just a few blocks from the 10th/Osage Lightrail Station, is an example of a piece of Denver history that has managed to survive despite more than a century of change. Buckhorn Exchange, dubbed "Denver's original steakhouse," first opened its doors in 1893 and is the city's oldest restaurant. According to Buckhorn's website, it also boasts the distinction of being Colorado's "Number One" liquor license holder. The Rio Grande Exchange was formed by a man named Henry H. "Shorty Scout" Zietz, who eventually changed the name to Buckhorn Exchange.

Cattlemen, miners, railroad builders, silver barons, Native Americans, and old-timey businesspeople used to dine at Buckhorn Exchange, which represents Colorado's rough and interesting history. In 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt paid a visit and allegedly requested Shorty Scout to go big game hunting with him after dinner. Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan, as well as a colorful cast of old Hollywood luminaries, astronauts, and even a British princess, have all visited Buckhorn Exchange.

Buckhorn Exchange now houses a large collection of historical relics as well as over 500 mounted animal heads. If you haven't guessed, this eatery specializes in meat, from baby back ribs to buffalo steak to more unusual options like elk, Cornish game fowl, and quail.

The restaurant is known for an unimaginatively named dish called "The Big Steak," which costs $220 and includes a 4-pound steak. Although the menu specifies that this option is for five people, it begs the question of whether anyone has attempted and succeeded in eating the entire meal alone at the Buckhorn in its long history.

Address: 1000 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204, United States

Phone: 303-534-9505

Website: https://www.buckhorn.com/