Ho-Chunk Nation showcases Native food at gaming facility

Tuesday, November 26, 2019  

The Ho-Chunk Nation is showcasing Native food at one of its gaming facilities in Wisconsin.

The Standrock buffet at the casino in Wisconsin Dells currently features a Native food section, WMTV reports. The items were created by chef Elena Terry, who is a tribal citizen.

"For me, indigenous food means hope," Terry tells WMTV. "It means there's a connection to our ancestors and roots for our future."

Terry started serving the Native menu at the start of November, which is Native American Heritage Month. The menu features dishes made from bison, wild rice, blue corn and other items.

"It's been a well received collaboration PLUS we love having guests come and celebrate our food," Terry wrote in a post on social media.

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A post shared by Chef Elena Terry (@wild.bearies) on Nov 14, 2019 at 9:13am PST

Though the Native menu is only offered through November, Terry plans on continuing her work at the casino by adding more Native items to the buffet starting later this week, WMTV reports She runs her own catering business called Wild Bearies.

In addition to observing Native American Heritage Month, the facility in Wisconsin Dells celebrated its 26th anniversary in November. The tribe recently expanded the casino, which includes a renovated hotel, four restaurants and a bingo hall.

Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells serves a taste of native food (WMTV November 23, 2019)
Ho-Chunk Chef Elena Terry, serves up great food with a side of mentoring at Farm Aid 2019 (Driftless Now October 3, 2019)