Casino Queen names assistant executive chef

EAST ST. LOUIS – Casino Queen has announced the recent addition of Chef Raymond Trenier Wiley to its culinary team.

Wiley, left, of Belleville, will be working alongside Chef Ken Weicker.

Wiley’s passion for food began at an early age. While most kids were watching cartoons, he was tuning into his favorite cooking shows for inspiration and ultimately determined that he’d prefer a career behind the stove over one behind a desk.

Wiley attended Southwestern Illinois College, Fontbonne University and the Cooking and Hospitality Institute of Chicago, before officially beginning his career in Chicago with Stefani Signature Restaurants in 2004. He worked as the sous chef of the Castaways Bar and Grill for six years, and in 2010, was promoted to Stefani Signature Events. As the executive sous chef, he was responsible for food operations and off-premises catering. During his time in Chicago, he cooked for the Obama family, the Italian prime minister and other celebrities; but as much as he loved the big city life, his love for family and friends drew him back to the Metro East when the opportunity arose with the Casino Queen.

“Chef Ray Wiley brings valuable culinary experience to our restaurants, making him an excellent addition to our team,” said Jeff Watson, general manager of the Casino Queen. “We are happy to have him return home to the Metro East, where we’re confident he’ll make his own mark on the local culinary scene.”