
Smoke & Cedar at Muckleshoot Casino Resort has been named the No. 1 best casino steakhouse in the 2026 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Polls, earning national recognitionfrom diners across the country.
Located on the 19th floor of the resort, Smoke & Cedar is known for its Pacific Northwest focused menu.
“Winning the best casino steakhouse award is an incredible honor for Smoke & Cedar. 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 Mount Rainier. This recognition reflects our commitment to excellence and our passion for creating a destination where every guest feels truly special. Most importantly, it honors the strength of our Tribal heritage and the dedication of our people, reminding us that every achievement is rooted in our traditions and community.”
— Junior Maldonado, Chief Operating Officer
The 2026 recognition builds on recent praises for Smoke & Cedar. The restaurant was named best steakhouse in 2024 and best fine dining in 2025 in The Seattle Times Best in the Pacific Northwest People’s Choice Awards, reflecting continued excellence and consistency from the culinary and service teams.
Smoke & Cedar’s success also contributes to the community. Revenue from the resort supports Tribal programs like education, health care, housing and cultural preservation while helping fund regional philanthropic efforts from schools to first responders and local nonprofits. Dinner at Smoke & Cedar is not just a night out. It is part of how the Tribe uplifts the community and sustains a legacy of giving back.
On Jan. 19, the 2026 Muckleshoot Indian Tribe held its annual elections with the winning results as follows: Virginia Cross: 408; Jessica Garcia: 369; Elieen Richardson: 311. Thank you all who participated in this year’s election.
Tacoma City Ballet donated 250 tickets on December 12, to members of the Muckleshoot Tribal community offering families and youth the opportunity to experience ballet and the performing arts together.
The Sound Transit Federal Way light rail extension opened December 6, expanding regional transit access in South King County.
Smoke & Cedar at Muckleshoot Casino Resort has been named the No. 1 best casino steakhouse in the 2026 Newsweek Readers’ Choice Polls, earning national recognitionfrom diners across the country.
The Muckleshoot Messenger is a Tribal publication created by the Muckleshoot Office of Media Services. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as news, calendar items, photos, poems, and artwork.