Food & Drink
 

Where to Eat & Drink in Ruidoso

From coffeehouses and cheeseburgers, steaks and seafood, to pizza and all the barbecue you can eat, Ruidoso offers a taste of everything for everyone with eating choices as varied as your cravings. Explore the dining diversity in Ruidoso with this quick guide on where to eat in Ruidoso. And for after sunset, check out these ideas for Ruidoso nightlife. 

 
Featured
Savor the Flavors of Vegan Dining in Ruidoso
Savor the Flavors of Vegan Dining in Ruidoso

Discover the winners of Ruidoso's Vegan Chef Challenge Southwest and enjoy an array of innovative vegan dishes. Visit Downshift Brewing Company, Corazon Restaurant, and Casitas Café to savor the culinary creativity that won them top honors. This event highlighted Ruidoso's vibrant culinary scene and the growing appreciation for vegan cuisine. Come taste the best of plant-based dining in Ruidoso!

Vote for The Village Buttery in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards!
Vote for The Village Buttery in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards!

The Village Buttery in Ruidoso is up for USA TODAY's 10Best Readers' Choice Award for Best Pie Shop. You have the chance to vote daily until the polls close on Monday, June 10th at 11:59 am EDT. This nomination is a great opportunity to put one of our beloved local spots in the national spotlight. Let’s rally behind Ruidoso—vote now and spread the word! Cast Your Vote ➡️

Ruidoso Food Truck Center
Ruidoso Food Truck Center

Experience Ruidoso's Food Truck Center on Mechem Drive for some of the tastiest bites in town. Dive into 440 Smokehouse BBQ, relish Toss'd Pizza, or savor Flash Jack's burgers and shakes, plus delicious coffee and more! Enjoy indoor seating, arcade games, and a fire pit for s'mores. Whether you're a foodie or seeking fun, there's something for everyone here.

El Camino Nuevo of Ruidoso Honored Among Top 7 Margarita Destinations in New Mexico
El Camino Nuevo of Ruidoso Honored Among Top 7 Margarita Destinations in New Mexico

We're thrilled to announce that El Camino Nuev0, nestled in the heart of Ruidoso, has been recognized by Best Things New Mexico as one of the "7 Best Places for Margaritas in New Mexico"! Read more at besthingsnm.com >>

Delicious Dessert Spots in Ruidoso
Delicious Dessert Spots in Ruidoso

Searching for a great place to grab dessert in Ruidoso? Look no further. Here are some of the top spots to get your fix of sweet treats.

A Taste of Fall: Apple Pies and Sweet Indulgences
A Taste of Fall: Apple Pies and Sweet Indulgences

Autumn in southern New Mexico brings ripe apples to regional orchards, and Ruidoso eateries shine with apple pies and sweet indulgences, some with a spicy twist. Try a slice of Hatch green chile apple pie or chipotle caramel apple for a taste of the Land of Enchantment. Explore our guide to Ruidoso's fall flavors for a memorable autumn experience.

Ruidoso Coffeehouses Not To Miss
Ruidoso Coffeehouses Not To Miss

While you're in Ruidoso, check out these indie coffeehouses offering outdoor patios, welcoming interiors with cozy chairs in quiet corners, ample outlets and free WiFi, delicious pastries, baked goods and light meals—perfect for an afternoon or morning pick-me-up. 

A Foodie's Guide to the Best of Ruidoso
A Foodie's Guide to the Best of Ruidoso

If you love to discover a place food-first, a great way to get started is with a visit to these Best of Ruidoso People's Choice Awards winners!

On Tap: Ruidoso Brewpubs & Wine Bars
On Tap: Ruidoso Brewpubs & Wine Bars

Quench your thirst for New Mexico craft beers and wines at these local hangouts

Where to eat lunch in Ruidoso
Where to eat lunch in Ruidoso

Whether you're hungry for a green chile cheeseburger, a burrito smothered in house-made chile sauce, or a piece of buttermilk pie, there's a restaurant for you in Ruidoso.

10 Go-To Spots In Ruidoso For When You're Craving A Burger
10 Go-To Spots In Ruidoso For When You're Craving A Burger

Green-chile or old-school, craft or classic, you can never go wrong with a burger. Here are ten of the best Ruidoso burger hotspots for when you get a craving.

IN THE PRESS: Viva la Trifecta at Ruidoso's Win Place and Show Bar
IN THE PRESS: Viva la Trifecta at Ruidoso's Win Place and Show Bar

“If I could paint a picture of a small-town bar on a Sunday afternoon where the whiskey pours, the axes fly, and the band plays on, it would be Ruidoso’s Win Place & Show.” — THE BITE

Eat. Drink. Play. Get your game on at the Ruidoso Bowling Center.
Eat. Drink. Play. Get your game on at the Ruidoso Bowling Center.

With 10 bowling lanes, 4 pool tables, dartboards, arcade games, a restaurant, and a lounge for parties and events, the Ruidoso Bowling Center is a fun, year-round, family-friendly entertainment destination where everybody gets to play.

Where to find great Mexican food in Ruidoso
Where to find great Mexican food in Ruidoso

Check out these Ruidoso restaurants serving delicious Mexican cuisine.

Cozy Ruidoso Breakfast Places
Cozy Ruidoso Breakfast Places

From patios to fireplaces and cozy corners to curl up and chat, here are some delicious Ruidoso breakfast spots for the most important meal of the day.

Yelp's 10 Best Ruidoso Restaurants
Yelp's 10 Best Ruidoso Restaurants

Yelp reviews answer the question: Where do locals in Ruidoso go to eat? Discover the Top 10 Ruidoso restaurants according to Yelp reviews.

Don't Miss These Ruidoso Candy Shops
Don't Miss These Ruidoso Candy Shops

What's a Ruidoso vacation without ice cream and sweets? Satisfy your cravings at these Midtown candy shops for some delicious treats!

Inn of the Mountain Gods Upscale Food Court "The Market at the Mountain"
Inn of the Mountain Gods Upscale Food Court "The Market at the Mountain"

This upscale food court features a collection of fast-casual dining options, including New Mexico’s first Wahlburgers and the acclaimed Samurai Sam's Teriyaki Grill franchise. Learn more >>

Noisy Water Winery: A popular Ruidoso Midtown experience
Noisy Water Winery: A popular Ruidoso Midtown experience

Home to their own brand of chile-infused New Mexico wines, and a wide selection of artisanal cheeses, and gourmet foods, Noisy Water Winery has a new location across the street in Midtown. With enhanced space for retail, VIP events, and tasting experiences, a visit to Noisy Water Winery is better than ever.

Discover Brewski Beer Garden at Alto Ski Shop
Discover Brewski Beer Garden at Alto Ski Shop

Experience the refreshing Brewski Beer Garden at Alto Ski Shop. Enjoy a cold beer around the fire pits in Ruidoso’s newest outdoor beer garden. Downshift Brewing Company’s Brewski Beer Garden sits at the base of Ski Run Road at Alto Ski Shop. Call for hours: (575) 937-0382

Ruidoso Restaurants for Outdoor Dining and Drinking
Ruidoso Restaurants for Outdoor Dining and Drinking

Discover some of Ruidoso's favorite patio bars, al fresco terraces, and outdoor restaurants to make the most of your Ruidoso vacation.

An Insider’s Guide to Midtown Ruidoso
An Insider’s Guide to Midtown Ruidoso

Nestled in Ruidoso’s downtown, Midtown is the village hub for dining, arts, and shopping. Stroll through Midtown and enjoy a great selection of restaurants, boutiques, galleries, wineries, brewpubs, and live music.

Ruidoso For Foodies
Ruidoso For Foodies

Searching for your next meal? Enjoy a vibrant Ruidoso foodie scene with restaurants and bars open at 100% capacity and plenty of outdoor dining options available.

5 Chill Ways To Enjoy National Eat Outside Day in Ruidoso
5 Chill Ways To Enjoy National Eat Outside Day in Ruidoso

August 31 is National Eat Outside Day. So, pack up a lunch, head over to the park, and commune with nature while you eat your meal under the open sky with these ideas for ways to enjoy the holiday in Ruidoso.

Unleash your inner foodie in Ruidoso
Unleash your inner foodie in Ruidoso

Whether you love spicy flavors or have a sweet tooth, Ruidoso has the perfect meal for you. Pack your stretchy pants and get ready for an exciting journey through flavor. Your taste buds will be thanking us in no time!

Top Spots for a Big Juicy Steak in Ruidoso
Top Spots for a Big Juicy Steak in Ruidoso

Lincoln County is ranch country and Ruidoso is a hotspot of steakhouses. Longtime visitors swear by the consistently tasty cuts of steak often paired with an extensive wine list and fresh seafood.

Fresh, flavorful, tasty as heck. Island Noodles in Midtown.
Fresh, flavorful, tasty as heck. Island Noodles in Midtown.

Foodie-favorite Island Noodles opened in May 2021 in the Midtown A-Frame plaza to bring its addictively delicious noodle stirfry to Ruidoso. The fast-casual franchise offers Hawaiian-style soba noodles for takeaway with 12 vegetables. It can be ordered vegan or with teriyaki chicken.

7 Reasons To Love Ruidoso Restaurants
7 Reasons To Love Ruidoso Restaurants

As we look forward to better times ahead, we’re celebrating Ruidoso restaurants that have gone above and beyond to help the community. From delivery services to hospital fundraisers, read on for our roundup of just a few of the big-hearted restaurants making life better in Ruidoso, now and always.

5 Lincoln County Eateries Worth the Drive
5 Lincoln County Eateries Worth the Drive

Where do locals in Ruidoso go to eat when they want to get out of town? Discover the Top 5 Lincoln County restaurants according to Yelp reviews.

Cafe Rio Named New Mexico’s Best Pizza
Cafe Rio Named New Mexico’s Best Pizza

Travel website Far & Wide names Ruidoso’s Cafe Rio as the best pizza in New Mexico. Read what reviewers had to say.

DISCOVER UPCOMING FOOD & DRINK EVENTS

Featured
Red Light Cameras with Megafauna at Downshift Brewing Company Riverside
May 24
Red Light Cameras with Megafauna at Downshift Brewing Company Riverside

Join Downshift Brewing Company for an exhilarating live performance by Red Light Cameras! As seen on Bands of Enchantment (Season 2, Episode 2), Red Light Cameras is a dynamic rock band from Albuquerque, New Mexico, known for their infectious pop hooks and energetic stage presence. Mark your calendars and join Downshift Brewing Company for a memorable evening of live music and entertainment.

Tequila and Margarita Festival Plus Stone Larue in Concert at Ruidoso Downs Race Track
May 25
Tequila and Margarita Festival Plus Stone Larue in Concert at Ruidoso Downs Race Track

Experience the ultimate evening of tequila tastings, specialty margaritas, and delicious food alongside live entertainment by Stoney Larue! Tickets are on sale on April 4th at RaceRuidoso.com. Don't miss out on this unforgettable night! Learn more at RaceRuidoso.com

6th Annual Great High Mountain Bed Race
Jun 1
6th Annual Great High Mountain Bed Race

Catch the Parade through Midtown beginning at 9:00 am Saturday. Then watch as the teams race their beds back to Wingfield Park for food, fun, and games for all ages. Following the race, there will be activities at the park! All proceeds benefit the High Mountain Youth Project.

Opening Day Midtown Market (Seasonal, June to October)
Jun 8
Opening Day Midtown Market (Seasonal, June to October)

Discover fresh, local foods and handmade crafts at the Midtown Market, where artists, bakers, wineries, and more converge on Saturdays to provide locally made products in Midtown at Country Club Park, located at 100 Country Club Drive. June 8, 2024, to October 19, 2024. See you there!

Doso Dirtbags LIVE at Lost Hiker Brewing Company
Jun 15
Doso Dirtbags LIVE at Lost Hiker Brewing Company

School's out for summer! Well, at least for some of us. Celebrate summer with Ruidoso’s very own Dirtbags. Check out their new release if you haven't yet, and then come enjoy all the tunes live. Tyler, Chris, and Donny bring it all: rock, Folk, Punk, plus all their originals. The Doso Dirtbags never disappoint. Music at 5. The brewery opens at 2 with a food truck for good eats.

Red, White and Brews at Ruidoso Downs Race Track
Jul 6
Red, White and Brews at Ruidoso Downs Race Track

Save the date for Saturday, July 6, 2024, when Ruidoso Downs Race Track invites you to indulge in an evening of Beer & Spirit Flights, along with specialty brews and delectable food offerings! And that's not all – enjoy a live performances featuring Wade Bowen, along with Drew Kennedy and Josh Grider. Tickets on sale April 4, 2024, at raceruidoso.com.

Chris Baker Live at Downshift Brewing Co's Hidden Tap
Jul 6
Chris Baker Live at Downshift Brewing Co's Hidden Tap

Chris Baker is back at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap on Friday, July 6th, from 6-9 PM. Bring the family and enjoy craft beer & live music!

Chris Baker Live at Downshift Brewing Co's Hidden Tap
Jul 12
Chris Baker Live at Downshift Brewing Co's Hidden Tap

Chris Baker is back at Downshift Brewing Company's Hidden Tap on Friday, July 12th, from 6-9 PM. Bring the family and enjoy craft beer & live music!

53rd Annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival
Jul 26
53rd Annual Ruidoso Art and Wine Festival

Art lovers from around the southwest make an annual trip to Ruidoso for this juried fine arts show that features over 100 of the nation’s most talented artists, showcasing a broad spectrum of mediums, showcasing collectible art and jewelry.

Chile the Kid Festival at Ruidoso Downs Race Track
Aug 2
Chile the Kid Festival at Ruidoso Downs Race Track

Join the Chile the Kid Festival at Ruidoso Downs Race Track from August 2-4, 2024! Enjoy unlimited samples from beer and wine vendors with a $20 sampling glass each day. Doors open at 11:00 am for a weekend of fun, flavor, and festivities. Experience live entertainment, delicious chile-infused dishes, and more in this spicy celebration. Get your tickets now for an unforgettable weekend! Tickets >>

 
 
Explore by experience, Where to eat in RuidosoKerry Gladdenwhere to eat in Ruidoso, coffeehouse, chesseburgers, steak, seafood, pizza, barbecue, breakfast spots