Three decades in the hospitality industry and Ed Lee says, “It’s seeing that joy on the guest’s face, taking that first bite, taking that first sip, seeing that wow, that smile from them. It really encompasses everything that I’ve worked so hard for. I don’t have any regrets whatsoever; moving to Las Vegas was the best decision.”

He moved to Vegas from his native Brooklyn when he was just 18 years old and has been working his way through the industry ever since. “I fell in love with the hospitality industry,” Lee says. “I’ve done every single job in the industry you can think of. I moved up the ranks and learned every aspect from casual to fine dining.” And for the past five years, he’s served as the general manager of Mercato della Pescheria, an authentic Italian and seafood restaurant located in St. Mark’s Square inside The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort.

“It’s my job to make sure the operations are running smoothly—from the host stand to the tables to the bar,” Lee says. And he attributes achieving a level of success to his staff, too.

“I’ve got a great team,” he says. “We learn from each other. I’m still learning. I’ve always been one that leads by example. Me and my staff understand that it’s everyone’s job to make for a great experience. Doesn’t matter if you’re a busser, server, bartender, management, our goal is the same—give the guest the best experience possible.”

Photo by: Christopher DeVargas

Libation: The Smoked Nonino Old-Fashioned

Mercato della Pescheria recently released new spring signature cocktails like The Smoked Nonino Old-Fashioned. Arriving to the table in a decanter and smoked with cherrywood, the blend of Bulleit rye, Amaro Nonino and amaretto is poured tableside over a special ice cube.

Benefit: Try the tableside tiramisu dessert with espresso, ladyfingers, mascarpone mousse and dark chocolate shavings.

The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort, 702.837.0390. grandcanalshoppes.com

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