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The Buckhorn Exchange, Colorado's venerable dining establishment and a recognized National Historic Landmark, offers an extraordinary journey back to the heart of the Old West. This iconic Denver restaurant, founded by the legendary Henry \"Shorty Scout\" Zietz, embodies a rich tapestry of frontier history, adventure, and culinary distinction. Patrons are invited to immerse themselves in an atmosphere where cowboy lore, presidential visits, and an exotic menu converge, creating a truly unique and memorable experience that transcends mere dining to become an exploration of America's rugged past.

The narrative of the Buckhorn Exchange begins with its fascinating founder, Henry \"Shorty Scout\" Zietz. Born in 1865, Zietz's life was a vivid saga of the American frontier. At the tender age of 12, he was already a sharpshooting prodigy performing in Buffalo Bill Cody's Wild West Show, a testament to his early immersion in the adventurous spirit of the era. His remarkable journey also included forging a lifelong friendship with the revered Sioux chief Sitting Bull, an uncommon bond that speaks volumes about his character and the diverse encounters of the time. Drawn by the allure of gold, Zietz eventually made his way to Colorado, where his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a saloon in Denver. This establishment quickly became a bustling hub, catering to a diverse clientele that included cattlemen, miners, railroad workers, Native American royalty, silver barons, and gamblers, all seeking sustenance and camaraderie in the burgeoning city. In 1893, this saloon evolved into the Buckhorn Exchange, a two-story edifice that has since stood as a proud testament to his enduring legacy, a National Historic Landmark that continues to pulsate with the very essence of his frontier spirit and a generous helping of showmanship.

Upon entering the Buckhorn Exchange, visitors are immediately transported to a bygone era. The largely unaltered red brick exterior, adorned with weathered murals depicting quintessential Western scenes, stands as a striking contrast to the sleek modern condominiums and towering buildings that now populate Denver's oldest neighborhood. Inside, the restaurant is a veritable museum of the Old West. From its sturdy hardwood floors to the intricately decorated tin ceiling, every surface is adorned with an extensive collection of cowboy regalia and artifacts. Each display tells its own compelling story, such as the impressive cape buffalo trophy, rumored to have been taken down by none other than President Theodore Roosevelt himself. The dining experience itself is steeped in tradition, with guests often seated at poker tables that are as old as the restaurant, adding an authentic touch to their meal. The menu proudly features \"old-timey prairie classics\" that have been served for over 150 years, including succulent steaks and wild game dishes. Gramma Fanny's pot roast is a hearty favorite, and the ham and beans soup holds a special place in history, reportedly beloved by Theodore Roosevelt to such an extent that it continues to be served at the White House today. While other establishments may boast of chic Kobe beef or iconic prime rib, the Buckhorn Exchange's \"Denver's original steakhouse\" reputation is built on its \"Big Steak\" dinner, a culinary marvel featuring U.S.D.A. prime New York Strip. This substantial cut, capable of feeding up to five guests, boasts a delectable crust formed from a light veil of fat, expertly carved and plated tableside alongside sautéed mushrooms and onions, promising an unforgettable feast for any steak aficionado.

Beyond the classic steak offerings, the Buckhorn Exchange beckons adventurous palates with an epicurean array of exotic game. Diners from around the globe are drawn to specialties like buffalo prime rib, tender elk medallions, locally sourced lamb, and delicate quail, providing a culinary journey beyond traditional beef. For those seeking even bolder flavors, appetizers such as fried alligator tail and smoked buffalo sausage ignite the taste buds. However, the true test of an adventurous spirit lies in tackling the menu's most renowned and frequently ordered dish: Rocky Mountain Oysters. These battered bull testicles are so popular that the Buckhorn reportedly serves up to 500 pounds of them weekly. Regardless of how daring one's meal might be, the dining experience culminates in the comforting embrace of a warm Dutch apple pie, generously dressed with a cinnamon rum sauce, whipped cream, and ice cream—a dessert menu favorite that provides a sweet and satisfying conclusion.

The Buckhorn Exchange is not merely a restaurant; it is a palatial sensory experience, a living museum adorned with approximately 600 century-old taxidermied trophies. These impressive displays, remnants of Zietz's own hunting expeditions and contributions from generous patrons, are meticulously arranged throughout and above the dining areas. Visitors can \"howdy\" to an imposing 9-foot Kodiak bear, marvel at a rare white bison head, spot a mythical jackalope, and even encounter a two-headed calf, among a cornucopia of other fascinating creatures. Interspersed among these animal displays are autographed photographs chronicling visits from a distinguished array of presidents, including Franklin Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan. A cavalcade of celebrities, such as Garth Brooks, Roy Rogers, Will Rogers, and Bob Hope, along with even British royalty like Princess Anne, have also graced the establishment. Amidst these historical and celebrity tributes, there remains ample space for a collection of 125 antique firearms and cherished Wild West Show memorabilia, further enriching the immersive historical ambiance.

Ascending to the upper level, guests can perch at the original white oak bar, a historical artifact itself, having been constructed in Germany before being transported by oxcart from New York. Here, one can savor the signature Buffalo Bill cocktail, a delightful blend of apple juice and bourbon. While Denver is widely celebrated as America's craft beer capital, boasting an impressive array of brews, the Buckhorn Exchange holds the unique distinction of possessing Colorado Liquor License No. 1. This permits the establishment to regale patrons with captivating tales of its past, including how \"Shorty\" ingeniously smuggled bootleg whiskey, cleverly concealed within hollowed bread loaves, during the Prohibition era, along with other fascinating local lore, adding yet another layer to its rich and storied history.

In essence, the Buckhorn Exchange transcends the definition of a mere restaurant; it is a living monument to Denver's profound Old West heritage. From the captivating life story of its founder, Henry \"Shorty Scout\" Zietz, to its meticulously preserved frontier decor, and a menu that daringly combines classic prairie fare with exotic game, every element contributes to an immersive historical and culinary adventure. This National Historic Landmark offers not just a meal, but a tangible connection to a vibrant past, making it an indispensable destination for anyone seeking to experience the authentic spirit of the American West.