RIDGEFIELD, WA – ilani held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for it’s newest restaurant, Sovereign, which included opening remarks, a blessing by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe’s spiritual leader, Tanna Engdahl, and a performance from the Cowlitz Drum Group. With a focus on steak, chops and seafood, the Cowlitz Indian Tribe-owned and -operated concept fills the space formerly occupied by Michael Jordan’s Steak House.
“We’ve worked hand in hand to create a destination that would serve the tribe’s needs and goals,” said Kara Fox-LaRose, President and GM at ilani. “The result is a development that has become the premier dining, entertainment and meeting destination in the region, and a big part of that is our commitment to surprise and delight our guests on every visit.”
For the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Sovereign is more than a name and represents self-determination and a deep connection to the land, water and traditional food systems of the Pacific Northwest. Sovereign’s concept pairs its dining program with elements drawn from the tribe’s cultural and regional identity. Paying homage to Native foods, Sovereign showcases a filet flight featuring elk and buffalo tenderloin with wild mushrooms and a local cedar plank salmon.
Defining the modern steakhouse experience, Sovereign offers Certified Angus Beef, USDA Prime cuts, regional Wagyu selections and dry-aged preparations. Set within a newly renovated contemporary-casual dining space, guests can experience a culinary journey spanning the sea, land and pasture.
