The name may sound similar, but there is a new attitude at Chicaro’s Happy’s Place (formerly Gary’s Chicaro’s) at 3030 N. Grand in Enid. According to new owners Daren and Lenora McGowan, “everyone is welcome.”
The previous owner passed away in February, and while the McGowan’s didn’t agree with all his “rules” they did enjoy the food and the atmosphere. “We really did not want to see an iconic Enid establishment go away,” says Lenora, “so we looked into buying the restaurant from the estate, which is what we are doing now. We officially opened September 14th and the crowds have been great!”
While Daren and Lenora currently have full-time jobs elsewhere, they are excited to provide delicious food Wednesday through Saturday from 5:00 p.m. til people leave. “We anticipate we will be open until 10:00 or so Wednesday and Thursdays and around 11ish on Friday and Saturdays,” she says.
As for the food, they are serving the same great smoked steaks, steak fingers, prime ribs, and other items that Chicaro’s was known for, with a twist: you can actually see the price on the menu and get an itemized bill!
“We want anyone and everyone to come and have a good time and enjoy some good food. We have horseshoes and cornhole boards and will have live bands occasionally. You can wear a hat, shorts, whatever you want and if you were “banned” before, you aren’t now. We even have a t-shirt that says so!” Lenora says. Further, not only has Vance AFB lifted the prior restriction on their airmen going to Chicaro’s, active duty gets 10% off their meal.
So if you have a taste for delicious smoked steaks, and a laid-back atmosphere, check out Chicaro’s!
