The name Wind Creek Wetumpka conjures up a lot of images: bright lights on rows of colorful machines; the whirl of laughter and music in the 85,000 square foot gaming area; a bounty of coins rushing out of a slot like pirate treasure. But the hotel and casino complex has something to offer everyone, even those who don’t come to win the jackpot. Wind Creek offers a range of entertainments designed to make every guest feel like a winner, including a first-rate steakhouse and an entertainment center unlike anything else found in the river region.
There are several dining options at Wind Creek, including a buffet, a casual grill and The Chilly Bean for coffee and pastries. But for those who want a truly elegant experience, FIRE Steakhouse is the way to go. The restaurant is only a short stroll from the chaotic energy of the casino, but it feels like another world.
Separated from the bustle of the main floor by heavy glass doors, Fire’s high-ceilinged and columned dining area is hushed and private.
Full-length windows lining two walls offer diners a view of the Coosa River. A private dining room and two-story wine cuvee with a rolling ladder are available at the rear of the restaurant.
General Manager Thomas Altamura said the dining experience at FIRE brings guests from all around the South.
“We have guests that drive down specifically from Birmingham, Columbus and Atlanta just for the restaurant,” said Altamura.
FIRE is a popular destination for birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasion dinners. Guests come for the atmosphere as well as the food. Menu options range from hearty entrées, such as mustard crusted rack of lamb and bison ribeye, to lighter fare, including poached pear salad and grilled Atlantic salmon. But of course, the main draw is the steak.
“We have the best prime steaks in Alabama,” Altamura said.
As steaks go, FIRE has everything from a tender filet mignon to a huge, 14-ounce New York strip, all cut from the highest grade of USDA-certified beef.
In addition to the recently redesigned menu, FIRE’s weekday specials entice customers who want to save their cash for the casino.
“We’re always reinventing ourselves,” said Cathye Ross Amos, director of marketing.
This spirit of reinvention extends from the restaurant into the casino’s Entertainment Center. The entertainment center, which seats 1,200, is the only one of its kind in Elmore County.
“We’re as competitive as any other gaming market when it comes to our entertainment offerings,” said Amos. “The majority of the shows are sold out well in advance of the show dates.”
The Entertainment Center hosts at least one major concert per month. Famous performers, such as Willie Nelson and Charlie Wilson, have been featured, and Wind Creek will host acapella group Boyz II Men in late January.
In November, the Entertainment Center branched away from musical guests when comedian Chris Tucker brought his stand-up routine to Wind Creek.
“There was a tremendous response to that show,” said Amos. “We hope to do some other things along that line.”
While most of the star power at Wind Creek is focused on the Entertainment Center, Amos was quick to add that there are plenty of other acts, which can be seen on the public stage in the casino free of charge. On weekends, the public stage features musical acts, while marketing promotions and other events are featured during the week.
“There’s something going on every day here,” she said.
Whether it’s fine dining or a great concert, Wind Creek is designed to offer a winning moment for everyone.
