Ruidoso Food & Drink Guide
Savor the flavors of Ruidoso!
Whether you’re craving a hearty mountain breakfast, a sizzling green chile cheeseburger, locally crafted beer, or a glass of New Mexico wine, Ruidoso’s diverse food and drink scene has something for everyone.
From charming coffeehouses and family-friendly eateries to vibrant brewpubs and upscale dining, this guide highlights the best spots to satisfy your appetite. Explore cozy cafés, grab a quick bite, or enjoy a leisurely meal with stunning mountain views.
Plan your food adventure today! Call ahead to confirm hours and availability, and get ready to taste the best of Ruidoso.

Craving authentic Mexican flavors in Ruidoso? From sizzling fajitas to smothered burritos and homemade salsas, these local restaurants serve up some of the best Mexican cuisine in town.
Whether you’re craving a classic cheeseburger, a green chile masterpiece, or a gourmet creation, Ruidoso has the perfect burger for you. Here are 10 top spots to satisfy your hunger.
No trip to Ruidoso is complete without indulging in something sweet! From classic fudge and handmade chocolates to creamy ice cream and nostalgic candies, these Midtown candy shops are the perfect stop for a delicious treat.
Wondering where to eat lunch in Ruidoso? Whether you’re craving a juicy green chile cheeseburger, a burrito smothered in house-made chile sauce, or a slice of homemade buttermilk pie, Ruidoso’s restaurants offer something for every appetite. From casual cafés to must-visit local favorites, here’s your guide to the best lunch spots in Ruidoso.
Looking for the perfect place to sip craft beer or local wine in Ruidoso? From laid-back brewpubs pouring New Mexico’s finest ales to cozy wine bars with curated selections, these top spots offer the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy a drink.
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.
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!
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 >>
Craving something sweet in Ruidoso? From homemade pies and decadent cakes to artisan ice cream and freshly baked pastries, these top dessert spots have you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick treat or a leisurely indulgence, here’s where to find the best desserts in Ruidoso.
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.
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.
Join the Texas Club in Ruidoso for "Texas Club After Hours" every Saturday from June 1 through July. Enjoy live music from special guests, exclusive drink specials, and a new tapas menu. The event runs from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM at 212 Metz Dr., Ruidoso, NM. Bring friends or a partner for a lively, social night out. Check the Texas Club website for the full list of performers and updates.
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!
Whether you're planning Thanksgiving for two or a family, the whole meal — from turkey to sides to pie — can be found at Ruidoso restaurants. Here’s a helpful list of Ruidoso restaurant Thanksgiving menus and prepared meals. Make your reservation today!
“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
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.
Yelp reviews answer the question: Where do locals in Ruidoso go to eat? Discover the Top 10 Ruidoso restaurants according to Yelp reviews.
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 >>
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 some of Ruidoso's favorite patio bars, al fresco terraces, and outdoor restaurants to make the most of your Ruidoso vacation.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Foodie-favorite Island Noodles in the Midtown A-Frame plaza brings 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.
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.
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.
Travel website Far & Wide names Ruidoso’s Cafe Rio as the best pizza in New Mexico. Read what reviewers had to say.
Discover Ruidoso Food & Drink Events
Join Downshift Brewing Company Riverside for an evening of art and craft beer on March 23, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.! Led by Bridge to Art, a local studio and gallery, each $40 ticket includes a painting class with supplies and a complimentary drink. Tickets are limited, so secure yours quickly at Eventbrite >>.
Chris Baker is back at Downshift Brewing Company Hidden Tap on March 29, 2025, from 6-9 PM. This Las Cruces native is a singer-songwriter of the best variety. With covers and originals enhanced by his signature loops, his shows are always a can't miss!
Join Downshift Brewing Company Riverside for an evening of art and craft beer on April 13, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.! Led by Bridge to Art, a local studio and gallery, each $40 ticket includes a painting class with supplies and a complimentary drink. Tickets are limited, so secure yours quickly at Eventbrite >>.
Join the All-American Comeback BBQ at Ruidoso Downs Race Track Event Center on May 3, 2025, for a full day of BBQ, bourbon, and live music! Featuring 30 KCBS BBQ teams competing for $25,000, performances by Brian Mars, Erick Willis, and Pat Green, bourbon tastings, shopping, and a Kentucky Derby viewing, this is a can’t-miss event! Tickets: $34.05 - $134.44. Pat Green live at 7 PM!
Experience Rainbow Weekend on July 12-13 at Ruidoso Downs Race Track, featuring over $2.3 million in purse money. The Rainbow QH Derby, Oaks, and Invitational Stakes showcase top three-year-olds on Saturday, while Sunday’s Futurity and Juvenile Stakes highlight elite two-year-olds. Don’t miss this high-stakes racing event, part of the 46-day summer season!
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.
Exciting News! The Ruidoso Midtown Association is bringing back Brewdoso on August 9 at Wingfield Park! Mark your calendars for craft brews, live music, and a fantastic time in the mountains! Brewdoso.com
Join the Rusty Balls C10 Club NM Car and Truck Show on September 19-20 at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack, featuring special guest Steve Darnell from Vegas Rat Rods. The weekend kicks off with a Friday night pre-party at Jack’s Backstage, followed by Saturday’s car show with multiple award categories. After the show, enjoy a free after-party at Rusty Balls Speed Shop with food, music, and giveaways!
Raise a stein to Ruidoso Oktoberfest! Celebrate at Downshift Brewing Company—Riverside with beer, German food, and family fun. Enjoy live entertainment, including Fungi Mungle and Die Polka Schlingels. Enter contests for best dressed, stein hoisting, and the chicken dance. Tickets start at $10, and VIP passes include tokens, swag, and exclusive perks. This is a rain-or-shine event! BUY TICKETS »
Looking for the best breakfast in Ruidoso? Whether you crave a hearty mountain-style meal, a cozy café with a fireplace, or a sunlit patio to enjoy your coffee, Ruidoso has plenty of charming spots to start your day. From classic diners to hidden gems serving homemade pastries, here’s your guide to the top breakfast restaurants in Ruidoso.