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.
Tribal members David D'Ambrosio, Denise Opsahl and Tricia Bagley visited the Native American memorial in Middleton, County Cork, Ireland in July, along with their families.
The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe welcomed members and staff aboard the Hiyu on July 6 for Family Day, bringing the community together for an evening of soccer, games and family-friendly activities on Lake Union.
At an age when many young adults are just beginning to discover new hobbies, 19-year-old John Daniels Maestas has already checked an ultramarathon off his bucket list.
Families from across the Muckleshoot Community gathered at Keta Creek on June 13 for the annual Kids Fishing Derby, enjoying a morning filled with fishing, outdoor recreation, and time spent together with family and friends.
The Muckleshoot Messenger is a monthly Tribal publication. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as announcements, birth news, birthday shoutouts, community highlights, and more. We want to hear from you!
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© Muckleshoot Indian Tribe 2026
