In a state where meat and potatoes reign supreme, steak in Idaho isn’t just an ordinary entrée. It’s an experience. For some, a swanky, polished meal of Wagyu and delicately dressed sides amplify the meal. For the rest, it’s all about the history: rustic, hearty, time-honored cooking that’s done right and without the frills. Places where the past and present collide into one beautifully nostalgic – and delightfully delicious – experience are rare, but the Wolf Lodge Inn is an old-school carnivore haven that has easily earned its reputation as one of the best steakhouses in Idaho. Fortunately, Wolf Lodge doesn’t just serve up tantalizing open-flame steaks with all the fixings, it also dishes up a truly unique steakhouse experience with an extra helping of Idaho history.
Standing proudly at nearly a century old, the vibrant red exterior of the Wolf Lodge Inn is an iconic sight in Coeur d'Alene. Folks come from miles around to dine here and soak up the history that fills every corner of the restaurant - much like the warm, smoky aroma of grilled meat.
The result? Juicy cuts and grill marks for days. Just please don't drool on your electronic device.
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True to the origins of this country-cooking method, the hearty, massive portions of meat are straight out of the Wild West, and rightfully served as the star of the show.
Without a doubt, the ambiance at Wolf Lodge is just as delightfully rustic as the cuisine. Outside, quirky country signs play up the isolated setting: a quiet area near the original Mullan Road, a secluded circle of trees, and the barn-like shape of the restaurant are the same as they were in the 1970s when steak became the lodge's primary focus.
Inside, the space is full of old-school saloon charm. Every corner is warmly lit, casting the shingled walls and country décor in a golden glow. A rustic fireplace keeps diners toasty through CDA's snowy winter months and an original rock grill sits in the middle of the room just waiting to meet its next set of steaks.
Antlers, vintage saddles, Mason jars, and signs sporting traditional cowboy humor complete the décor - every item so quintessentially "Idaho" that you're sure to feel right at home.
Aside from a few modern touches befitting the 21st Century, everything at Wolf Lodge Inn is a nostalgic tribute to cowboy cooking of the past, from the heaping portions to the jovial camaraderie.
Yet, despite nearly a century of history under its belt, the backstory of Wolf Lodge is a relatively murky one. Fortunately, long-time locals and historic photos have allowed parts of it to be pieced together.
The Wolf began as a humble mercantile around 1939, primarily serving miners and travelers. Eventually, a saloon was added, and the space transformed into a restaurant and lodge. Later, cabins were added and "inn" was added to the name.
Over the next few decades the Wolf Lodge Inn became a one-stop shop to play pool, grab a drink and a home-cooked meal, and catch a good night's rest before heading out the next morning.
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Today, although "inn" remains in its name, the Wolf Lodge is all-in on its cowboy steak and stick-to-your-ribs menu reputation. Cuts range from the 10-ounce Lil' Dude to the beefy 26-ounce Cowgirl Steak ... and more.
No list of Idaho steakhouses is complete without this iconic, barn-red gem. Fortunately, at Wolf Lodge, whatever steak you choose, they’re all well done – or rather, medium rare. Your choice! But you’ll definitely want to grab a reservation before popping in; this steakhouse is popular!
Have you ever dined at the Wolf Lodge Inn in Coeur d’Alene? Do you have any special memories there? We’d love to hear about it!
After fueling up on red meat, there’s so much more to explore and discover in this scenic slice of Idaho. Check out this unique CDA walking tour to get a full dose of North Idaho history.
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