Robert Mueller

EMERALD DOWNS NAMES EXECUTIVE CHEF

AUBURN, Wash. (Nov. 28, 2016) – Emerald Downs announced that Robert Mueller, with over 25 years of experience in culinary arts, has been hired as the track’s Executive Chef, effective immediately.

A 50-year-old Tri-Cities native, Mueller will oversee the entire food operation at Emerald Downs, including a complete menu renovation and developing a new sports bar menu to complement the 5th floor card room scheduled to open next spring.

Mueller says that old track staples like burgers and sandwiches will remain on the menu, but he would like to add an upscale twist.

“It’s clear to me that taking the raw ingredients and being able to make something great from what may seem like very little is the most satisfying,” Mueller says. “Great food doesn’t need any excessive embellishments, the quality and love that goes into a dish speaks for itself.”

Mueller most recently was Executive Chef and Director of Food and Beverage at the Arctic Club in Seattle, a position he held five years, and prior to that was Executive Chef at Red Lion in downtown Seattle.

Mueller also was Executive Chef at Doubletree Hilton in Denver and Aurora, Colo., Executive Chef at San Marcos Golf and Recreation Center in Chandler, Ariz., and has taught culinary arts and served on numerous industry task forces.

Federal Way residents, Mueller and his wife have five children (who all currently or previously worked in the restaurant industry) and the chef is an avid fisherman in his spare time.

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