Tram Bui brings warmth, creativity, and decades of hospitality experience to her role as Manager at Ray’s Boathouse.

Born in Vietnam and raised in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Tram’s first job was at a retail and novelty store in a local mall, where she learned the fundamentals of customer service. Her path into hospitality began soon after at a neighborhood tavern, where she poured beer and wine before the bar expanded to include spirits. It was there that she learned to bartend, setting the stage for a career that now spans more than 20 years in the industry.

Tram finds joy in meeting guests from all walks of life and being a small but meaningful part of their celebrations, milestones, and everyday memories. That perspective carries into her leadership at Ray’s, where she helps create an environment that is both welcoming and memorable for guests.

Outside of Ray’s, Tram enjoys planting unique vegetables and produce when the weather allows, and is currently learning the art of origami. You might also find her browsing thrift stores, trying new restaurants with friends, or wandering—sometimes a bit too far—through Discovery Park.

Tram holds an MFA in painting from the University of Washington, which brought her to Seattle initially, and is actively involved in the community, renting a plot, volunteering, and serving on the board of New Start Community Garden in Burien. The garden donates all of its produce to the White Center Food Bank while supporting families, individuals, and workforce development.