Don’t miss your opportunity to enjoy Tidewater Tastings—a lively, open-air gathering at the NWP Showroom & Outdoor Pavilion with renowned Chef William Barnhardt. This relaxed evening is limited to only 30 guests, promising a cozy, unforgettable experience under the blue pavilion. Savor tempting small plates inspired by the season and the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay: smoky beef brisket charcuterie board, chargrilled oysters, soft-shell crab street tacos, petite sautéed crab cakes atop crisp greens with curried aioli, grilled ratatouille skewers, and zesty quinoa tabbouleh. Sip on a glass of wine or craft beer to enhance every vibrant bite, then treat yourself to an array of decadent miniature desserts to end the evening on a delightful note. Reserve your spot now for a Tidewater culinary adventure! The Live Outdoors event is limited to 30 guests. Tickets are $40 per person. Advance registration is required, with a maximum purchase of four spots per guest.
Learn more about Willaby's Restaurant & Catering.
BIO: William Barnhardt didn’t set out to become a restaurateur—unless you count cooking duck in a toaster oven as career planning. Barnhardt was born in Richmond and grew up on his family's duck farm in Urbanna. His hospitality journey began in a college dorm, cooking duck in a toaster oven for friends. These small gatherings soon turned into lively “DuckFest” college events and eventually blossomed into a catering business. Building on this early success, Barnhardt launched Willaby’s as a catering business in Urbanna in 1987 and then expanded into a café in White Stone in 1992. After a fire destroyed the White Stone location, Barnhardt moved Willaby’s to a scenic Rappahannock riverfront near the Norris Bridge, creating a beloved destination known for great food, live music, and a warm, casual atmosphere. When VDOT’s bridge replacement plans threatened the site, Barnhardt showed resilience by relocating Willaby’s to 86 Harris Road in Kilmarnock, launching a food trailer and focusing on the catering side of the business to keep Willaby’s thriving. Today, Barnhardt is remodeling the former medical office at 86 Harris Road into his next Willaby’s iteration. Set to open later in 2026, this location offers a new chapter while preserving the relaxed vibe, delicious food, and music Willaby's fans love. With this step, Barnhardt reaffirms his dedication to community and the Willaby’s experience, inviting everyone to discover what makes it special.
