Born and raised in Orange County, California, Dyllon Forbes got his start in the hospitality business at the Happiest Place on Earth: Disneyland. He has spent every year since perfecting the art of making people feel genuinely welcome. As Manager at American Revelry, he's often the first person guests encounter and he doesn't take that lightly. The emotional tone of an entire evening can be set in the first fifteen seconds, and Dyllon knows it. We sat down with him to find out what drives him, what shaped him, and what he thinks you should order.

Describe the vibe at American Revelry in three words.

Elegant, relaxed, refined.

How did you get into the restaurant world?

I began my professional journey in the service industry at Disneyland in 2012, working as a busser at the Jolly Holiday, one of the park's many dining establishments. Over time, I advanced to a serving position at Red Robin.

You might be one of the first faces a guest sees. What's the feeling you're trying to create before they even sit down?

I believe it is important to set an emotional tone for the guests as they walk in. The goal is to create a feeling of effortless welcome. Like they’ve just stepped into a place that already knows how to take care of them.

"American Revelry" is an interesting name. What does it mean to you, beyond the sign on the door?

American Revelry shouldn't feel like just a sign — it should feel like an invitation. To me, 'American' brings in that sense of variety: different backgrounds, flavors, stories all meeting at one table. 'Revelry' adds energy and joy, but not chaos. It's a curated kind of celebration.

Tell us about a moment that really shaped how you think about hospitality.

I recall a moment in my early serving career when an elderly woman came into the restaurant, sharing that this place had been her late husband's favorite. He had passed away a year prior, and she wished to commemorate their anniversary by dining there. Traditionally, he would grab her a Coca-Cola and take home burgers for them to enjoy together at home. Unfortunately, we only offered Pepsi products. Wanting to make her experience special, I took the initiative to run across the street to the gas station to purchase a Coke for her. Her reaction was heartwarming; she embraced me and expressed how I had made her anniversary as meaningful as it once was. This experience underscored the essence of hospitality, it's the small gestures that truly make a difference.

A first-timer walks in and says, "What should I get?" What are you steering them toward?

As a California native, I cannot help but recommend our new Baja Shrimp Tacos from the latest menu rollout. These tacos are expertly grilled and topped with a creamy white baja sauce, complemented by fresh avocado, crisp cabbage, and cotija cheese. They are served alongside a side of flavorful pinquito beans. To enhance the experience, I suggest pairing them with a refreshing ice-cold beer, particularly an IPA, and our Spacedust on tap is an excellent choice for this meal.

And what are you ordering when it's your turn to eat after a long shift?

After a long shift, I find great pleasure in savoring a 12 oz Strip Steak Frites. The rich flavor of our steaks is unparalleled, and when complemented by crispy fries drizzled with garlic aioli and fresh chimichurri, it provides the perfect reward after a day filled with numerous engaging experiences.

The Small Gestures That Really Set the Experience.

Dyllon Forbes understands that hospitality isn't about grand gestures — it's about paying close enough attention to know exactly what someone needs, and then delivering it before they have to ask.

That's the standard at American Revelry. And now you know who's holding it.

Come experience it for yourself.

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