The Snoqualmie Valley made a strong showing in 425 Magazine’s 2025 Best of Awards, with winners from Carnation, Snoqualmie, North Bend, Duvall, Fall City, and Preston. More than 22,000 votes were counted this year, highlighting standout businesses, schools, and events across the Eastside.
The Valley’s biggest honor went to Carnation, which was named Best City—the first time a Snoqualmie Valley city has received the title in the contest’s 17-year history.
Carnation
“This recognition is a testament to the strong sense of community and welcoming atmosphere that makes us a standout in the region,” said City Manager Rhonda Ender.
“We are honored and humbled by this award,” said Mayor Adair Hawkins. “It’s a reflection of the incredible people who live and work here, our dedicated city staff, and the many community members who make Carnation such a special place. This award belongs to all of you.”
Carnation’s honors didn’t stop there. Riverview School District swept the public-school categories, with Carnation Elementary, Tolt Middle, and Cedarcrest High each winning in their respective age groups.
Alveare Winery took home two awards: Best Winery and Best Bartender (Amy Paoletti).
Remlinger Farms was recognized as both Best Birthday Party Venue and Best Wedding & Events Venue.
Morgan Henley Presents received two of the top accolades: Best Event Planner and Best Eastside Influencer.
Says Morgan, “I’m beyond humbled and honored to have been recognized for my contributions to the community. What drives me is carrying on the vibrant culture, heritage, and history of the arts/music/gathering that’s thrived throughout the Snoqualmie Valley for decades. Creating smiles and positive memories is my jam.”
Snoqualmie
Snoqualmie Casino & Hotel earned Best Casino, while Fireweed Cannabis Co. was named Best Cannabis Shop.
Salish Lodge & Spa took home Best Day Spa and Best Northwest Resort.
Vista Prime Steaks & Seafood was also a double winner, claiming Best Fine Dining and Best Steak.
North Bend
South Fork stood out with five remarkable wins: Best Breakfast, Outdoor Dining, Unique Eats, Kid-Friendly Restaurant, and Best Chef (Charlotte Glaves).
“We are so incredibly proud and thankful to the North Bend community and beyond for how much they’ve accepted us into the community and helped us build a place that feels like you can truly come and eat, drink, and gather. All of our staff work tirelessly to provide the most hospitable, family-friendly, unique restaurant on the east side, and we’re stoked to continue to do so. Thanks to all of our #friendsofsouthfork,” said owner Luke Talbott.
Other North Bend winners included North Bend Theatre (Best Movie Theater), Northwest Railway Museum (Best Museum), Falling River Meats (Best Deli), and Pet Place Market, which also operates in Anacortes, for Best Pet Store.
Duvall
The Grange was honored for Best Cocktail (I can testify to this fact), while Darci’s Dinky Donuts & Espresso—also in Monroe—was named Best Doughnut.
Last Lite Photography, run by Travis Wetherbee, earned Best Wedding & Event Photographer award.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by the readers of 425 Magazine as the best event photographer! I pride myself on my ability to give back to the community. My photography is my art, and I love to capture the most impactful moments in our communities…the time when we are all together and enjoying our town festivals, music and other events! Coming together in person is more important than ever, and I love being able to capture those images! Big shout out to all the other Snoqualmie Valley businesses who won as well! 40% of the winners came from the Valley! That is in no small part due to Morgan Henley’s leadership in highlighting the awards!” Wetherbee said.
Other Duvall winners included:
• Dr. Victoria Baker-Hall (Evergreen Health) – Best Family Doctor
• Dr. Sarah Low (Duvall Advanced Family Eye Care) – Best Eye Doctor
• Dr. Matthew Bruner (Bruner Orthodontics, also in Redmond) – Best Orthodontist
• Eastside Property Solutions – Best Kitchen & Bath Remodeler
Fall City & Preston
In Fall City, the Fall City Library (King County Library System) was voted Best Library.
And First Due Movers, serving both Kent and Preston, earned the title of Best Moving Services.
To view the complete list of winners from across the Eastside—including restaurants, service providers, and community favorites beyond the Snoqualmie Valley—425 Magazine has published the complete results online.
From long-loved local institutions to emerging businesses making their mark, this year’s Best Of awards reflect the passion, creativity, and resilience of communities throughout the region. You can explore the entire list here.
[Featured Image Credit Last Lite Photography, Travis Wetherbee]
