Bill “Papi” Lay

For over 30 years Bill Lay (affectionately known as PAPI) has been dedicated to the hospitality business. From his humble beginnings in Hoboken, New Jersey to his role as a project manager for a Large South Florida Restaurant chain and now as Proprietor of the following businesses in Key West Florida; La Trattoria, La Trattoria Oceanside, Catered Affairs of Key West, Benihana Teppanyaki restaurant and Virgilio’s Martini Bar, Bill is always looking onward and upward! He is also the founder of Martini Monday’s at Virgilio’s, on the board of directors for the Key West Chamber of Commerce, Co-Chairman of the Chamber Golf Tournament and a former owner of Irish Kevin’s .

His focus has always remained the same, Service-Service-Service. He attributes his success to satisfying his guests throughout his long career. Bill has hosted events for small gatherings and larger functions in Atlanta, Miami and Key West. Some of his larger events include functions for Oprah Winfrey, Gary Payton and The Bacardi Rum Company with corporate events for Netezza International Inc., Waste Management Corporation and the Latin-American Builders association.

Understanding that no two events are alike, Bill has always treated each one as a unique experience, from the smallest intimate event to larger corporate functions. Along with his beautiful wife, daughter, 2 dogs and a set of golf clubs; making Bill Lay part of your team will give you the personal touch from the beginning to end.

“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born
and the day you find out why.” -Mark Twain