Breakfast: Local Jonny’s Tavern and Cafe
Local Jonny’s Tavern & Café in Cave Creek offers a welcoming atmosphere for both coffee lovers and bar enthusiasts. Serving fresh breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner daily, it also features craft cocktails, happy hour and live music on weekends. Founded by locals Jonny Oughterson and Lauren Van WInkle, Local Jonny’s has been a Cave Creek favorite since 2014.
READ MORE: OpenTable Top 100 Restaurants in America includes 3 from Arizona
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Morning activity: Arizona Horseback Adventures
Arizona Horseback Adventures, formerly Spur Cross Stables, offers horseback rides through the Sonoran Desert and Tonto National Forest. Located near Cave Creek, the ranch sits on historic land with remnants of an 1870s gold mine. Guests can choose from multiple guided ride options to best suit their interests.
Lunch: The Horny Toad
Originally a 1932 home, The Horny Toad became a famous Cave Creek restaurant after being purchased by Glenn and Marian Price in 1976. Now managed by their son Jeff, it holds the distinction of being the oldest, continuously owned restaurant in town. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff, it’s a staple in the community.
Dinner: El Encanto
El Encanto in Cave Creek offers Mexican cuisine made from fresh ingredients and features specialties from different regions of Mexico. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating with views of a pond and wildlife. The cantina serves a variety of tequilas and wines, along with a tapas menu.
Evening activity: Buffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse
Since its beginning in 1951 as a feed and bait shop, The Buffalo Chip Saloon and Steakhouse has grown into one of the most renowned saloons in the country. Now spanning over 6,000 square feet across 5 acres, it offers everything from live bull riding and dance floors to a family-friendly fish fry.
