A Beloved Steakhouse Returns with a Fresh New Look
Coushatta Casino Resort has officially announced the grand reopening of its iconic Big Sky Steakhouse, set for Monday, August 4, 2025. After over 30 years as a regional dining favorite, Big Sky returns with a full renovation inspired by the rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions of Southwest Louisiana’s Acadian region. The revamped steakhouse promises a refreshed experience that merges upscale steakhouse fare with the warmth and flavor of Louisiana hospitality.
A Chef’s Vision Rooted in Home
At the helm of Big Sky’s culinary transformation is Executive Chef Matthew Beard, a native of Oberlin, Louisiana. Beard brings both world-class training and local passion to the project. Having studied at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin and Scottsdale, Chef Beard is widely recognized for creating inventive and regionally inspired cuisine across Coushatta’s property.
“Our goal was to bring the best of Louisiana to a steakhouse setting,” said Beard. “I grew up in this region and have a strong connection to the area, which is why leading the team at Big Sky Steakhouse is deeply personal to me. Our custom cuts, dry-aging process, and commitment to Louisiana flavors make every dish stand out.”
A Menu That Celebrates Louisiana’s Culinary Soul
Big Sky’s new menu draws heavily on the rich food traditions of Southwest Louisiana. Signature steak options include premium dry-aged selections like the 24oz Cowboy Cut Bone-In Ribeye, aged in-house for flavor and tenderness. For seafood lovers, there’s Gulf-inspired fare like pan-seared black drum and the Red Snapper Calcasieu.
Chef Beard also brings Southern comfort to the forefront with hearty Louisiana classics such as oxtail gravy served over buttery mashed potatoes. Other standout dishes include fried green tomatoes topped with lump crabmeat and crawfish sourced from Coushatta’s own farms, and the indulgent Big Sky Burger, made from dry-aged beef for an elevated take on the American classic.
Design Rooted in Acadian Heritage
The restaurant’s physical transformation is as impressive as the new menu. The interior design draws heavily from the Acadian aesthetic, combining rustic charm with elegant craftsmanship. Repurposed 150-year-old doors, custom woodwork by local artisans, curated antiques, and bespoke lighting create an atmosphere that is both refined and authentically regional.
The dining room features a grand fireplace as a visual centerpiece, flanked by intimate booths and a spacious floor plan designed for both cozy dinners and large gatherings. Much of the interior finish was executed by local craftsmen, reinforcing the community ties that define the new Big Sky experience.
The Dazzling Mirror Bar
A new addition, the Mirror Bar, acts as a showpiece within the restaurant. This striking bar is backed by a wall of over 40 antique mirrors, each sourced from across the Southern U.S. The bar not only serves Big Sky’s full food menu but also features a lineup of creative cocktails.
Signature drinks include the Smoked Old Fashioned, infused with oak smoke for a rich depth of flavor, and the Voodoo Smoked Tiki Dreams — a layered rum cocktail presented with smoked bubbles and a flaming garnish that turns heads.
Louisiana-Inspired Desserts by a Local Talent
Pastry chef Kellie Trimble-Deaire brings her own distinctive touch to the dessert menu, incorporating quintessential Louisiana ingredients like chicory, rum, and praline. Her creations include Salted Caramel Mini Beignets and Bananas Foster Bread Pudding — both indulgent finishes to a rich Louisiana meal.
Exclusive Dining Experiences
Big Sky can accommodate 120 guests in its main dining room and 42 more at the Mirror Bar. For those seeking a more intimate or exclusive experience, a private chef’s table featuring a stunning 2,230-year-old Sinker Cypress table is available for parties of up to eight. There’s also a larger private dining room with seating for up to 20 guests, adorned with local art and custom millwork.
A Culinary Landmark Reimagined
With its reinvigorated menu, warm hospitality, and elegant yet locally grounded design, the new Big Sky Steakhouse is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of Louisiana’s culture, food, and community. The reopening marks not just a return, but a rebirth of a cherished destination within Coushatta Casino Resort. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time guest, Big Sky promises a steakhouse experience like no other in the region.
ABOUT COUSHATTA CASINO RESORT
Coushatta Casino Resort, Louisiana’s largest casino resort, is located in Kinder, Louisiana. It’s expansive gaming floor, the largest in the Lake Charles area, offers nearly 2,000 slot and table games, including live poker, bingo and sports betting. The property also features three hotels, the Dream Pool and Lazy River, world-class entertainment and the #1 rated golf course in Louisiana. Coushatta Casino Resort is owned and operated by the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana. For more information, visit www.ccrla.com.
