Take a trip to the Buffalo Chip

By Marielle D. Marne | April 28, 2010

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For dancing, dining and bull riding
CAVE CREEK – Larry Wendt, owner of the Buffalo Chip Saloon, knows people have a choice of where they can eat in Cave Creek, so he strives to set his restaurant apart with excellent service. It's evident that it works because he gets lots of repeat customers. And this reputation is far reaching because the Buffalo Chip staff sees a lot of tourist traffic as well.
"They like to experience the West as it once was, and we offer a sense of that here," explained "Pit Master" Ken Jaksch.

Ken Jaksch
"Pit Master" Ken Jaksch

On the menu, find a cowboy flair. There's a BBQ buffet line on Wednesday and Friday that is "the single biggest draw all at once." This could likely be a result of the newest state-of-the-art pit smoker that renders the food tastier than ever. The buffet is reasonably priced at $12 on Wednesday and $15 on Friday for a single pass through. Don't forget to try the honey buttered biscuit, considered a dessert in itself. Don't have a hankering for BBQ? Try the American or Tex-Mex fare.

The fun begins after the food. "The Chip" offers loads of entertainment – all without a cover charge. Live music is served up seven nights a week. Dancing is encouraged as well. Feeling self-conscious about the prospect of two left feet? Take part in the free dance lessons! But what really gets the crowd fired up is the bull riding on Wednesday and Friday nights. And this ain't no mechanical bull. The event draws throngs of spectators and it's the epitome of a perfect night out in a Cave Creek kind of way.

"We've very much a family-oriented establishment," Jaksch added. Despite the scores of awards bestowed upon the Buffalo Chip, the consensus is Wendt and his staff are kicking it up a notch. "We had good food before, but now it's even going to be more outstanding."

Check it out at 6811 E. Cave Creek Rd. Phone 480-488-9118 for information and watch for the website to be updated at www.buffalochipsaloon.com soon!