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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Smoke & Cedar at Muckleshoot Casino Resort Named #1 Best Casino Steakhouse in the 2026 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Polls
Auburn, WA — December 10, 2025 — Smoke & Cedar at Muckleshoot Casino Resort has been named the #1 Best Casino Steakhouse in the 2026 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Polls, outperforming some of the nation’s most iconic steakhouses, including Carversteak at Resorts World Las Vegas, Council Oak Steaks & Seafood at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ, and Delmonico at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, just to name a few.
This latest honor adds to a growing list of accolades for Smoke & Cedar, which was named Best Steakhouse in 2024 and Best Fine Dining in 2025 in The Seattle Times Best in the Pacific Northwest People’s Choice Polls.
A Unique Culinary Experience
Perched atop the resort tower on the 19th floor, Smoke & Cedar offers extraordinary panoramic views of Mt. Rainier, the Puget Sound, and surrounding mountain ranges and rivers while showcasing the best of the Pacific Northwest through seasonal ingredients sourced from regional foragers, fisheries, farmers, and artisan producers. Even when measured against powerhouse steakhouses across the nation, Smoke & Cedar stands apart through its unmistakably Northwest identity—defined by sweeping mountain vistas, locally sourced ingredients, and a culinary program that celebrates regional flavors. Guided by warm, attentive service inspired by the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe’s values of respect, community, and hospitality, Smoke & Cedar offers a distinctive blend of sophistication and heart that resonates deeply with diners and voters alike.
“Winning the Best Casino Steakhouse award is an incredible honor for Smoke & Cedar.” said Junior Maldonado, Chief Operating Officer and Muckleshoot Tribal Member. “Our team takes pride in crafting an unforgettable dining experience—pairing locally sourced ingredients, premium meats and seafood, and exceptional service with the breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier. This recognition reflects our commitment to excellence and our passion for creating a destination where every guest feels truly special.”
A Legacy of Community Impact
Smoke & Cedar’s success is intertwined with the mission of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe. Revenue generated by the resort supports Tribal programs, including education, healthcare, housing, and cultural preservation, while also helping fund regional philanthropic efforts—from schools to first responders and local nonprofits. Every guest dining at Smoke & Cedar contributes to uplifting the community and sustaining the Tribe’s long-standing legacy.
Looking Ahead
As Smoke & Cedar continues to redefine the casino steakhouse experience, the restaurant remains committed to connecting guests with the land, culture, and community of the Pacific Northwest. From local sourcing to mentorship and staff development, the restaurant is poised to continue offering unforgettable dining experiences for years to come.
“To be recognized by Newsweek readers and to receive this award celebrates our unwavering commitment to culinary distinction. Our seasonal menus highlight the finest flavors, and our expertly curated pairing dinners offer a level of uniqueness found nowhere else. Combined with unrivaled service and the breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier, we create an experience that is as refined as it is unforgettable,” said Tim Perkins, CEO of Muckleshoot Casino Resort.
Celebrate with Us!
Smoke & Cedar is excited to share our win with our guests! Enjoy these special treats as our way of saying thank you:
- Chocolate Cake to share
- Buy One, Get One on our Bar Menu – available every Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday until 7PM
Some restrictions may apply. Please ask your server for details. Available
For more information or to make a reservation at Smoke & Cedar, please visit muckleshootcasino.com/smokeandcedar or call 800.804.4944.
- SOURCE: https://www.newsweek.com/readerschoice
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Contact: Muckleshoot Casino Resort
Robert Dearstine, Chief Marketing Officer
Phone: 800.804.4944 ext. 2011
Email: robert.dearstine@muckleshootcasino.com
Muckleshoot Casino Resort
Award-winning Muckleshoot Casino Resort, known as the "Biggest and Best in the Northwest," offers an unmatched experience that blends luxury, entertainment, and comfort. Guests can unwind in one of 401 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, take in the serenity of the indoor pool, rejuvenate at the full-service labcəbut spa, or savor exceptional cuisine at the rooftop steakhouse, Smoke & Cedar—featuring sweeping views of Mt. Rainier, the Olympic Mountain range, and the Seattle skyline. As one of Washington’s premier casino destinations, Muckleshoot Casino Resort features the state’s largest selection of games, including over 3,400 gaming machines, 67 table games, and one of the largest smoke-free gaming rooms in the region. Dining options span the globe, taking guests on a culinary adventure, while the Muckleshoot Events Center and Galaxy deliver world-class entertainment year-round. Visitors also enjoy thoughtful amenities like complimentary valet service, Wi-Fi, covered parking, and electric vehicle charging stations—ensuring every stay is as convenient as it is unforgettable.
- https://muckleshootcasino.com
Muckleshoot Indian Tribe
The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is a Federally Recognized Indian Tribe composed of descendants of the Duwamish and Upper Puyallup Peoples who inhabited Central Puget Sound for thousands of years before non-Indian settlement. The word, Muckleshoot, is derived from the Native name for the prairie on which the tribe’s reservation was established in 1857. Today, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe is a major contributor to the local economy and community providing resources to other governments, schools, nonprofits, and churches throughout Washington. The benefits of the Muckleshoot Tribe’s economic revival go well beyond financial contributions. From landmark agreements protecting fish and wildlife habitats and innovative educational programming to hundreds of partnerships with organizations serving those in need throughout the state, the Muckleshoot Tribe is committed to improving the quality of life of its citizens, neighbors and work force while preserving its culture and laying the groundwork for a bright future.
- https://www.muckleshoot.nsn.us/
