Ranchers Club of New Mexico, Albuquerque

When people think of the cowboy lifestyle, fine dining might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But the Ranchers Club of New Mexico sends the mesquite and hickory smoke of an open-range cookout drifting through a room that feels like a grand lodge tucked away off a rustic road. In the kitchen, french ovens topped with gridirons sear exotic game, seafood, and dry-aged chops over the embers of all-natural wood. The wait staff carves porterhouse steaks tableside as diners sink into leather armchairs beneath a vaulted wood-beamed ceiling with a formidable steer-horn chandelier at its center. They’re also glad to show off deep knowledge of a 200-strong wine list that has won Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence. Area ranchers and rebellious cattle donated many of the saddles, ranching artifacts, and artwork on the walls.