Tilman Fertitta, renowned for his transformative impact on the restaurant and hospitality industry, has been named by President-elect Donald Trump as the next U.S. ambassador to Italy.
Known as “the world’s richest restaurateur,” Fertitta’s vast empire spans more than 600 restaurants, casinos, and entertainment venues across the globe, including notable brands like Morton’s The Steakhouse, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and the Golden Nugget Casino.
Fertitta’s appointment marks a unique turn in the long-standing diplomatic tradition, blending business acumen with cultural diplomacy.
As Trump highlighted in his announcement, “Tilman is an accomplished businessman and a proud American who knows how to lead. His success speaks volumes, and I’m confident he will represent our country with the same drive and excellence that made him a legend in the hospitality world.”
Fertitta’s career is a testament to scaling success while maintaining personal engagement. As the CEO of Landry’s Inc., he not only expanded the company to include diverse dining concepts but also pioneered entertainment and gaming ventures.
This included acquiring BR Guest Restaurants, which owns iconic establishments like Manhattan’s Keens Steakhouse, and seamlessly integrating them into his portfolio. Fertitta’s ability to adapt and innovate has been a hallmark of his business philosophy.
“I always believed in creating experiences that people remember,” Fertitta once said. “Whether it’s dining at a world-class restaurant or enjoying a night at the casino, it’s about delivering something extraordinary every time.”
Appointing a restaurateur as ambassador to Italy, a nation celebrated for its culinary and cultural heritage, is rich with symbolism. Tilman Fertitta’s Italian-American roots add another layer of connection. His ancestors immigrated from Sicily to Galveston, Texas, where they contributed to the vibrant cultural fabric of the Gulf Coast.
“It’s an incredible honor to represent the United States in Italy,” Fertitta said. “As someone who’s spent a lifetime building bridges in the hospitality world, I’m thrilled at the opportunity to bring that same passion to strengthening U.S.-Italy relations. Trump also emphasized Fertitta’s philanthropic contributions.
“Tilman has given back to communities across America, supporting children’s charities, law enforcement, and medical research. He’s a man of integrity and vision.”
Fertitta’s predecessor, Jack Markell, the former governor of Delaware, leaves behind a strong foundation of U.S.-Italy cooperation.
During Markell’s tenure under the Biden administration, relations between the two nations focused on shared priorities such as addressing global challenges like climate change, navigating China’s Belt and Road Initiative, and supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.
However, Fertitta inherits new challenges, including maintaining economic ties amid Europe’s shifting political landscape and addressing concerns about trade policies affecting both nations. Navigating Italy’s political dynamics, particularly under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, will also require diplomatic finesse.
Fertitta’s business background may prove an asset. His expertise in managing diverse teams, negotiating partnerships, and adapting to changing markets positions him well to tackle the complexities of modern diplomacy.
Critics have noted the irony of a restaurateur representing the U.S. in Italy, a country synonymous with fine dining and wine. But Fertitta’s advocates see this as a strength, pointing to his deep understanding of the global food industry and his ability to bridge cultural divides through shared experiences.
“Tilman knows how to bring people together,” Trump stated. “Whether in a boardroom or at a dinner table, he’s a master of fostering connections—and that’s exactly what diplomacy requires.”
Fertitta’s foray into diplomacy is just the latest chapter in a storied career. From his iconic CNBC show Billion Dollar Buyer to owning the Houston Rockets, Fertitta has consistently demonstrated an ability to thrive on the national and international stage.
As Tilman Fertitta prepares to take on his new role, all eyes will be on how this legendary entrepreneur navigates the transition from boardrooms and ballrooms to the halls of diplomacy. With his track record of success and a personality as bold as the flavors in his restaurants, Fertitta seems poised to bring a unique flair to the U.S.-Italy relationship.
