By Amy Edelen | The Republic
Cave Creek has always been proud of its Western roots and its small-town charm. But over the past year, the town has attracted a number of new businesses and embarked on a concerted effort to attract even more.
Some of the business owners say they’re drawn to Cave Creek because of the ease of doing business and the quaint feel. But protecting that small-town vibe even as Cave Creek tries to encourage new business development is proving to be a balancing act.
Over the past 12 months, several retail stores opened on Cave Creek Road, such as Local Jonny’s, a coffee shop and restaurant; Buddy Stubbs, a Harley Davidson retailer; Hogs and Horses, a bar and entertainment venue; Rare Earth Gallery, a gemstone shop; Oregano’s Pizza Bistro; and the Cave Creek Olive Oil Company. For the town of about 5,000 residents, about an hour’s drive northeast of Phoenix, the business growth has been notable.