Out with the old, in with the new! According to a new Facebook post, Buchona’s Sports Bar & Grill is now open in the Cedar Rapids building that was once home to Chappy's Safari Lounge.

What Happened to Chappy's Safari Lounge?

Chappy's Safari Lounge officially closed at 229 16th Ave SW in May of 2023. A February article from the Homegrown Iowan reports:

"Past owner Brian Chapman said he had sold both the business and building after closing Chappy’s Safari in 2023, but the deal fell through, and he eventually sold just the building to the current owner."

Who Are the New Owners?

If you recognize the names Jimmy and Ally Ramirez, it might be because they already own several successful restaurants here in the Corridor. The Homegrown Iowan says that the couple are currently the owners of all four Taco Depot restaurants; three in Cedar Rapids and one in Iowa City. But, Jimmy and Ally are not opening another Taco Depot in the former Chappy's Safari Lounge. They're trying something a little different  with Buchona’s Sports Bar & Grill.

Oh, and if you're wondering about the name, Ally told the Homegrown Iowan that the term refers to female bull riders. Google AI says: "While not widely used as a formal term, 'buchonas' is used by some to describe women in bull riding who are breaking barriers and showing resilience."

What Kind of Food Will Buchona’s Sports Bar & Grill Serve?

The official menu for the new restaurant was posted on Facebook yesterday (May 13th), and it includes lots of classic bar fare. The appetizer section features wings, nachos, onion rings, cheese balls, jalapeno poppers, and more. As far as entrees go, Buchona’s offers smash burgers, salads, sandwiches/wraps, and pizza. There's also a section of the menu titled "For the Vaqueros" that has tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. You can check out the full menu below:

When is the New Bar/Restaurant Open?

A Facebook post from Buchona’s Sports Bar & Grill just after 5 p.m. on May 13th revealed that they would be opening for the first time at 6 p.m. that night, offering "ice cold drinks & mouth watering food." You can check out a sneak peek look inside the newly renovated restaurant HERE.

READ MORE: New Eastern Iowa Restaurants & Bars That Have Opened in 2025 [GALLERY]

An early review of Buchona's from Zach Anaya on the Cedar Rapids Area Support Local Group on Facebook is very promising! It reads:

"Buchona’s Sports Bar just opened today. Super fast service and cool vibe. Has a SW honky tonk meets a sports bar feel. I had Rodeo Tacos but want to come back and try the pizza and burgers. Lots of menu items with a unique twist to them here. Definitely coming back!"

The hours listed on the new restaurant's Facebook page are Sunday & Monday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday & Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. You can get the latest updates from Buchona's Sports Bar & Grill HERE.

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