California Grand Casino has been named the East Bay Times Best Local Casino, receiving the publication's prestigious Star Award in a recognition that the Pacheco card room's regulars would say is long overdue.

The award, voted by East Bay Times readers, highlights California Grand Casino's standing as the go-to gaming destination for residents across Contra Costa County and the broader East Bay.

"The Bay Area's premier casino and card room" — a phrase the casino has used to describe itself — now has a voter-backed credential to match the claim.

What Sets California Grand Apart

The win reflects several factors that distinguish the room from its Bay Area competitors:

History: California Grand has been operating continuously since 1854, making it the oldest continuously operating poker room in the world. That kind of institutional permanence creates a loyalty and community that newer rooms have to work hard to replicate.

Smoke-free environment: An increasingly important differentiator in a market where player preferences are shifting. California Grand has maintained a smoke-free policy that draws players who prioritize air quality during long sessions.

Promotions: The room's promotion calendar — including the doubled Bad Beat Jackpot windows, hourly high hand bonuses, and new player welcome offer — ranks among the most player-friendly in the region.

Location: The intersection of I-680 and Highway 4 makes California Grand accessible from Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, and most of the East Bay and North Bay. The free valet parking makes arrival frictionless.

Service quality: The room's 24/7 operation with consistent staffing — including The Grand Cafe for around-the-clock dining and a full bar — reflects a commitment to the player experience that extends beyond just the games.

The Competition

The East Bay has a legitimate poker ecosystem. Oaks Card Club in Emeryville, the newer rooms in Walnut Creek, and the broader Bay Area options at Bay 101 and Lucky Chances all compete for the same players. Winning a reader-voted award in this environment carries real weight.

What's Next

California Grand continues to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 5988 Pacheco Boulevard in Pacheco, CA. The award will likely drive additional visibility and new players curious to experience what the East Bay's voters chose as the best in the region.

For players who haven't been: the room is at the 680/Highway 4 interchange. Table games start at $20 buy-in with a new player welcome bonus. The phone-in list for high-limit Hold'em is open — call ahead to get on the list before you arrive.

Must be 21+ to enter. California Grand Casino: (925) 689-1965.