Buckhorn Exchange

Description:

• In the same rickety premises where it was established in 1893, this landmark restaurant displays its Colorado Liquor License No. 1 above the 140-year-old bar in the upstairs saloon. On the first level, the densely decorated dining room, dominated by a daunting menagerie of taxidermy, will alarm vegetarians, but meat lovers will not be disappointed. The Buckhorn's game dishes (slow-roasted buffalo prime rib, lean and served medium rare; elk, and quail) are the best in the city. The beefsteaks, ranging from 8-ounce tenderloins to 64-ounce table steaks for five, are also quite good. With fried alligator tail, Rocky Mountain oysters, and smoked buffalo sausage among the options, the appetizers will surely broaden one's palate. My recommendation: rattlesnake, served in cream cheese-chipotle dip with tricolor tortilla chips. For dessert, try a slab of hot Dutch apple pie -- if you have room. Lunch is lighter and more affordable, with an assortment of charbroiled meat entrees, sandwiches, and hearty homemade soups. A mile southwest of the State Capitol, the Buckhorn has its own light-rail stop, making it a fun and easy trip from downtown.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010