Plateau at Wildhorse Resort & Casino Wins Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence 2023

PENDLETON, OREGON (July 25, 2023) — Plateau, the premier fine dining restaurant located at Wildhorse Resort & Casino in Pendleton, Oregon, is thrilled to announce its recent recognition with the prestigious Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator. This is the first time that Plateau has received an award from Wine Spectator, further solidifying its position as a leading destination for exceptional dining experiences.
 
The Award of Excellence is a highly sought-after accolade in the culinary world, bestowed upon restaurants that offer meticulously curated wine lists with approximately 90 selections or more. These lists feature wines from quality producers, often not readily available at local wine stores, ensuring guests have a unique and exclusive wine experience. The selections are carefully chosen to complement the restaurant’s cuisine in terms of both style and pricing, allowing guests to enjoy a well-rounded and memorable dining experience.
 
“We are extremely honored to receive the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator,” said Diana Dumitru, Manager of Plateau. “This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing our guests with exceptional food and wine. We’re proud to offer an extensive wine list that showcases the best producers and allows our guests to discover extraordinary wines they wouldn’t easily find elsewhere.”
 
What sets Plateau apart is its remarkable team of sommeliers. Led by Dumitru, Plateau boasts three staff members who hold level two awards in the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program of sommeliers. It is rare to have such a knowledgeable and passionate team of sommeliers at one restaurant, and their expertise elevates the dining experience by offering expert wine recommendations and insights.
 
Plateau’s wine list features an impressive selection of 170 choices, with an inventory of over 1500 bottles. Notably, the restaurant prides itself on its collection of older vintages and a dedicated category on the list from the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater, Oregon. This section showcases biodynamic wines from Cayuse Vineyards, where all the fruit is grown using biodynamic farming methods, highlighting Plateau’s commitment to sustainability and exceptional quality.
 
Situated within the elegant confines of Wildhorse Resort & Casino, Plateau is renowned for its upscale dining experience. The restaurant’s menu predominantly offers à la carte options, showcasing premium steaks, seafood, and a higher standard of cuisine. In addition, special event dinners provide guests with a unique culinary journey that goes beyond the ordinary.
 
Proudly serving guests since 2007, Plateau is a favorite fine dining venue for couples, families, and businesses to celebrate special occasions. With special menus on holidays, wine events, and live music, Plateau has established a loyal clientele. 
 
Oregon’s well-known Gerry Frank, author, travel writer, and food critic, named Plateau as one of his favorite food spots in Oregon.
 
Plateau is dedicated to providing outstanding food and exceptional beverage service. With table-side theatrics and creative cocktail presentations, guests are treated to an unforgettable sensory experience that brings both food and drinks to life.
 
The Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence is a highly coveted honor and, in 2023, only 2,001 restaurants worldwide achieved this recognition. Plateau is proud to be among the select few that have met the rigorous standards set by Wine Spectator, solidifying its position as a leading culinary destination in the Pacific Northwest.
 
Plateau is one of only two Wine Spectator award recipients within a 200-mile radius. The other is located in Walla Walla, a popular wine region in Washington.
 
Plateau is owned by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) and is only the second tribe-owned restaurant in Oregon to receive a Wine Spectator award.
 
For reservations and more information about Plateau, please visit www.wildhorseresort.com/plateau or contact the restaurant directly at (541) 966-1610.