brand began to take off.įertitta envisioned a national chain of Gulf Coast seafood restaurants that welcomed patrons with a casual, authentic and entertaining atmosphere. In 1986, Fertitta gained controlling interests of both restaurants and the Landry's, Inc. A year later, he partnered to open the more upscale Willie G's Seafood & Steaks in nearby Houston. Today, the company is an international leader in the dining, hospitality, gaming and entertainment industries – the result of hard work, creative innovation and pure dedication.įertitta was a partner in the first Landry's Seafood Restaurant, which opened its doors in Katy, Texas, in 1980. Fertitta bought his first two restaurants to the present day, the company's story has been a tale of unmatched growth and rapid success.