All the fun experiences you’re having at the lounges at Caesars Palace is thanks in part to David Chiti, general manager of lounges for the property. He oversees the ordering of spirits, scheduling of the staffs, the creation of the cocktail programs, nurturing the vibe of each space and making sure each spots’ guests are accommodated. “That’s my favorite part of the job, meeting my guests and seeing my returning guests,” says the Canadian native. “I enjoy talking to people; you meet people from all over the world. That’s the best part of being in this industry.”
The food and beverage industry is one Chiti has been a part of for more than two decades in Las Vegas. He’s been behind the bar at big nightclubs, he’s spent 11 years as a certified sommelier at one of the Strip’s top French restaurants, and in 2018, he joined Caesars Palace, where he helped manage Montecristo Cigar Bar. Recently, Chiti was promoted to his new title, and he’s added Vista Cocktail Lounge (where we met with Chiti for this story), Vanderpump Cocktail Garden, Alto Bar and Stadia Bar, a new upscale sports lounge set to open this spring.
When Chiti is off the clock, he loves spending time with his wife and three boys. He actually met his wife while they were both bartending at a nightclub on the Strip; they will celebrate their 17th wedding anniversary next month. He loves movie nights at home and cooking, a passion for him—he makes a mean chicken schnitzel, and is a master of the barbecue.
When Chiti moved to Las Vegas from his home country in 1997, he never imagined where he would be today, but with a lot of hard work and dedication he’s found success in an industry, and city, he loves. “Vegas—it’s fun and fast-paced,” he says. “I’ve always enjoyed this industry. I love the city. I’m happy with how things turned out.”
Libation: Horse Soldier Old-Fashioned
This cocktail has a great story behind it. The Horse Soldier Old-Fashioned is mixed with Horse Soldier bourbon, house-made syrup consisting of sugar, cinnamon sticks, peeled orange rinds, cherry juice and water, and aromatic bitters. Horse Soldier is a bourbon created by soldiers who traveled to Afghanistan and defeated a Taliban leader. The bottle’s seal is made from a mold that uses metal from the Twin Towers. When ordering this cocktail at Vista, ask the bartender more about this fascinating story.
Benefit: Enjoy high-def LED screens surrounding Vista that display actual cityscapes of Dubai and New York City.
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