Fire Destroys Historic Wolf Lodge Steakhouse in Coeur d’Alene

COEUR d’ALENE — The historic Wolf Lodge Steakhouse in Coeur d’Alene is a “total loss” after a major fire Monday, Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris said.

The fire started in a kitchen hood, General Manager Nicole Martel said, and quickly spread to the chimney and attic before the entire building was engulfed in flames.

The steakhouse was closed at the time, but many of the employees were there for a picnic in honor of Labor Day.

Shawn Martel, the assistant manager, reportedly suffered second-degree burns to his arms and head while trying to put out the fire, family members said. Martel was hospitalized for his injuries.

The fire also caused a small wildfire behind the restaurant, said Chris Way, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Chief. The Idaho Department of Lands was called in to help extinguish the wildfire and establish a fire line.

Several IDL and hand crews remain on scene and officials are asking people to avoid the area. Assistance has also been requested from Shoshone and Spokane Counties.

The Wolf Lodge Steakhouse has been a Coeur d’Alene landmark for decades. After operating as a convenience store since 1939, the location became popular as a traditional steakhouse in the 1970s.

Firefighters spray water on the fire at Wolf Lodge on Monday as others set up a fire line on the hillside east of the restaurant.

Firefighters carry hoses outside the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse on Monday.

Firefighters are taking a break from fighting the fire at the Wolf Lodge Steakhouse on Monday.

Employees at Wolf Lodge Steakhouse hug each other on Monday.