MESA, Ariz. — Tortilla Flat, a little spot of land in Arizona home to a few wood buildings near the Salt River Lakes, is for sale on the Internet for $5.5 million.
Advertised as one of the "last remnants of the Old West," the town's listing on eBay has received more than 6,500 hits.
Dave Levi has shared ownership of the town and its well-known restaurant for five years with his sister and brother-in-law, Pam and Alvin Ross. But Levi said he and his partners are testing the waters by putting it up for sale.
"I'm getting too old for this stuff, plus (the Rosses) have their kids and grandkids back home," said Levi, 54.
Nestled in the Superstition Mountains about 18 miles northeast of Apache Junction on winding state Route 88, the restaurant offers prickly pear cactus ice cream, half-pound cowboy burgers and saddle seating at the bar.
"That little place is just like running a city. It's a young man or young couple's business. That's a lot of hours," Levi said.
With the purchase of one's very own historic Arizona town, which was settled as crews constructed the road to the Roosevelt Dam, comes old traditions that just won't die.
When the Roosevelt Dam was still under construction in the early 1900s, the road between Tortilla Flat and the dam often flooded, stranding people in town.
To ensure they had funds to eat and buy supplies, they would leave cash with their names signed on it behind the restaurant bar.
Today, instead of leaving the money behind the bar, thousands of signed $1 bills and currency from around the world are calling cards of visitors, decorating the restaurant and gift shop.
The town has also proven its mettle, surviving floods and fires over the years.
In August 1942, a flood wiped out the town at its peak of 125 residents. While no one was killed, most of the buildings were destroyed.
Tortilla Flat is popular among motorcycle riders, Phoenix residents seeking a day-trip getaway and also attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.
"It's enjoyable," Levi said. "Sometimes it's hectic, but all in all, it's pretty fun."
The land on which the town sits is leased from the U.S. Forest Service.
The 20-year transferrable lease, now in its third year, is included in the sale.