Matt West likes to joke that his first job in food and beverage was working at Del Taco. “And I still eat there today,” he says, laughing. While that was decades ago, West has built a solid, successful career in the industry, making sure that in whatever positions he’s held, guest service and guest experience is always the focus. He’s sharpened his skills all over town, including working as a maître d’ for more than 800 weddings and as an F&B manager and director at various properties. In 2021, he joined Treasure Island to manage the property’s coffee shop. He quickly moved into the role of director of restaurants, and this year he became the director of operations for Gilley’s.

“Gilley’s has a great energy, good bands, line dancing—it’s fun to see people let loose and have fun and dive into the country music experience,” he says.

As the director, it’s West’s job to nurture the environment, be it through innovating and maintaining a great food and beverage program or through guest experience and supporting the staff. “It’s all about engaging with our service culture—providing that genuine, excellent, memorable experience,” he says. “With all the competition in this city, it’s really important to make that connection with guests and make sure the staff stays engaged and supports our service culture.”

West is out on the floor each night—you’ll see him all around the restaurant, stepping in wherever needed “with a gesture and a smile,” he says. “Making sure every one of my guests is always having a good time.”

Photo by: Christopher DeVargas

Libation: Señorita Strawberry Margarita

Don’t miss out on the delicious specialty cocktails at Gilley’s. The assortment offers something for every palate, and one of our favorites is the Señorita Strawberry Margarita. It’s a blend of Casamigos blanco tequila, St-Germain, fresh lime juice, simple syrup and strawberry purée.

Benefit: Don’t miss riding Ricky Bobby—the famous mechanical bull of Gilley’s. How long can you hold on!? (It’s $10 per ride.)

Treasure Island, 702.894.7147. treasureisland.com

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