A Houston Billionaire Restaurateur Behind Morton’s and Bubba Gump Shrimp Might Serve in President-Elect Donald Trump’s Administration | Eater Houston

"This seafood-themed restaurant brand appears among the restaurants overseen by Tilman Fertitta via Landry's, Inc.; CBS News reports that sources say he is set to be named U.S. Ambassador to Italy, and a representative said they are not commenting. Fertitta owns over 600 properties nationwide, including casinos and multiple dining concepts, and observers have questioned whether his private-sector background — despite noted Italian connections such as Sicilian family roots and ownership of an Italian restaurant in Houston's Harlow District — compensates for never having served in public office. He has donated $420,000 to PACs backing Donald Trump and hosted numerous fundraisers; Trump called him "a friend of mine for a long time," and Fertitta called Trump "a tough landlord" while commending his pandemic support for businesses." - Brittany Britto Garley