Vicky’s of Santa Fe in Indian Wells has been part of the desert dining scene since 1989, the same year I moved to the desert full time.
One of my first jobs was at Desert Printing, and we printed Vicky’s menu. Back then, it had six items: fish, shrimp, chicken, beef, and lamb. That was it. It was already a hot spot in Indian Wells, known for its piano bar, strong cocktails, and the kind of crowd that dressed for dinner.
Nearly four decades later, I still recommend it.
Why Vicky’s of Santa Fe Still Works
The ownership may have evolved, after Guy Laliberte passed, his nephew Marc Laliberte took over. Today he and his husband Marc Lodovico run the restaurant, but the energy hasn’t changed.
It’s still lively. Still polished. Still the kind of place where people linger.
Now, instead of a piano player, there’s a full live music lineup in the lounge every night. Local favorite John Stanley King performs regularly, alongside the Slim Man Band, Rose Mallett and Company, Doug MacDonald Jazz, and more. No cover. Just good music and a packed room.
Reservations are strongly recommended for both the dining room and the music lounge. In season, this place fills up.
What I Ordered (And What I’d Order Again)
Because I don’t eat meat, I ordered the BLT wedge without the bacon, and honestly, it still holds up. Crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, tomatoes, blue cheese. It’s simple and satisfying.
Of course I ordered the twice-baked potato. You have to. It’s one of their signatures and absolutely lives up to the hype.
Since I was there early, I also tried the grilled ahi from the bar menu. Light, fresh, and perfect if you’re easing into the evening with a martini.
If I’m going for a full dinner, though, I gravitate toward the lobster ravioli or the battered black tiger shrimp. Both feel indulgent without being overly heavy.
And I couldn’t help but notice what everyone else was ordering at the bar, the chicken pot pie with the flaky crust. It was coming out nonstop and looked like serious comfort food.
As a Solo Diner
I chose to sit at the bar this time, which is always lively and comfortable, but I did notice they allow online reservations for one in the dining room. That’s not something every restaurant does. Based on the warm service I experienced, I wouldn’t hesitate to dine solo in the main dining room either. If you’ve ever wondered about eating out alone, I’ve shared more about that here: Eating Alone at a Restaurant.
The Bar Scene Is Strong
The center bar is still one of the best in Indian Wells.
They now serve a bar menu until 6 pm with items like ahi tuna, baked meatballs, shrimp cocktail, bacon-wrapped dates, and steak and fries. Pair that with a properly made martini and you understand why it’s been named Best Hot Spot and Most Vibrant Bar Scene.
It’s not quiet or sleepy. It’s classic desert nightlife.
Why I Recommend Vicky’s of Santa Fe
Vicky’s of Santa Fe Indian Wells has managed to do something rare in the desert: evolve without losing its identity.
It’s a true steakhouse with prime cuts, rack of lamb, pork chops, and fresh seafood. It’s also a live music venue. And it’s a gathering place.
For me, it’s personal. I’ve watched it grow alongside the desert, from printing its six-item menu to sitting at the bar decades later ordering grilled ahi and a twice-baked potato.
If you’re looking for a lively dinner, strong cocktails, live music, and a menu that leans classic with a few indulgent surprises, this is one I genuinely recommend.