MEET THE TEAM

Derrick and Deserea purchased the historic gymnasium at 200 State Street in the fall of 2023 with the vision of creating a one-of-a-kind restaurant, wine bar, speakeasy bar and venue.

 

They also own and operate Traveler's Cellar Winery in Rockfield, KY where they offer a tasting room, AirBnB, and venue.

Demian’s passion for the experience of exceptional cuisine is paramount and evident through his vast gastronomic experiences. His culinary journey began in the kitchen at home. Raised in an Italian-American household, he learned the value of quality ingredients and the love of sharing home-cooked meals with others. He soon began working in restaurants in his teens. Demian is a 1996 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, where he excelled and eventually instructed. Over many years, he owned restaurants in NY, worked as Executive Chef at numerous successful restaurants in NY, NM, CT, GA, and FL, including a restaurant recognized with 3 Michelin Stars. He also worked as a private chef for many high-end clients and celebrities. In recent years, Demian has established himself in management and sales across various industries. His recent focus has been on fostering a high-performance culture, team leading, business development, growth, and budgeting.

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The vision of The Mustang Club represents everything Demian is passionate about in the food, beverage, hospitality, and entertainment industry.

Travis Dickens is an accomplished restaurant manager with a wealth of experience garnered from some of the most prestigious establishments in the hospitality industry. With a career spanning over 30 years, Travis has demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational expertise at renowned venues such as The Sagamore Resort, The Brown Palace, Cholon Asian Bistro, and Mercantile Dining and Provisions.

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With a strong background in both front-of-house and back-of-house operations, Travis excels in overseeing all aspects of restaurant management. This includes staff training and development, inventory management, financial planning, and maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations. His keen eye for detail and commitment to excellence have significantly contributed to the success and growth of the establishments they have managed.

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Travis's passion for the culinary arts and dedication to creating memorable dining experiences have earned him a reputation for excellence within the industry. He is adept at fostering a positive work environment, motivating the team to deliver top-notch service, and ensuring that every guest leaves with a smile.

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In addition to their hands-on management experience, Travis holds a bachelor’s degree from University of Johnson and Wales, further solidifying his expertise in restaurant management. To stay current with industry trends and continuously seek opportunities for professional development, ensuring they bring innovative solutions and fresh ideas to his role.

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Outside of work, Travis enjoys riding motorcycles, camping and touring local wineries, distilleries and breweries, which often inspire his approach to hospitality and customer service. Travis is committed to driving the success of The Mustang Club, building strong relationships with guests and staff alike, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and service