Wendell's Steak & Seafood

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

The Signature Table at Inn of the Mountain Gods

Wendell's Steak & Seafood is the flagship dining room of Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino, set on the Mescalero Apache lands outside Ruidoso, New Mexico. Floor-to-ceiling views of Sierra Blanca, the Sacramento Mountains, and Lake Mescalero frame every meal, giving the room a sense of place that no amount of interior design could manufacture.

What's on the Plate

The menu is rooted in American steakhouse tradition, built around aged steaks and fresh seafood. Starters include Bourbon Barrel Wagyu Sliders, a signal that the kitchen takes its sourcing seriously. Desserts lean into the indulgent – chocolate lava cake and crème brûlée anchor a dedicated dessert menu. The wine program earned Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence in 2020, recognition that reflects both the depth of the list and the care with which it is curated to complement the American cuisine on offer.

The Full Experience

Adjacent to the main dining room, Wendell's Lounge offers fireside seating alongside cocktails and appetizers – a natural place to begin or extend an evening. The restaurant operates dinner service only and requires reservations, keeping the atmosphere unhurried and the service attentive. Private dining arrangements are available for groups.

Wendell's occupies a rare position: a destination-worthy American steakhouse and seafood restaurant that also happens to sit inside a full-service resort, yet carries the kind of wine recognition that stands on its own merits.