THE RESTAURANT

Fresh ingredients from locally owned businesses – results in the very best in a fine dining experience.”
– Alvin Williams

THE COBALT GRILLE FAMILY

Alvin Williams Executive Chef/ Owner

Alvin Williams talks about the advantages of using fresh ingredients from local farmers and fisherman. Alvin Williams has owned and operated Cobalt Grille since its conception in October 2000. He has always had a passion for fine cuisine. Born and raised in Leeds, England by Jamaican parents, his knowledge of cuisine and ingredients was quite diverse. After finishing Culinary School at the top of the class, he then went on to work in London in some of the finest establishments including the Mayfair hotel, The Savoy Group and a long stint at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane. He then moved to the United States to fulfill one of his childhood dreams, to own his own restaurant. First he worked at Le Chambord and Bistro in Virginia Beach for many years, honing his skills in a new market whilst building up a very loyal clientele. He then went on to open Cobalt Grille. Since then he has owned, operated and consulted on other restaurant projects throughout Tidewater. Alvin has been featured in local and national newspaper and magazine articles. Cooked on local TV spots, taught cooking classes and has been involved in numerous charity events. Currently other than focusing on Cobalt Grille he likes to do some catering, explore fine wines, enjoys travel and just very recently did a little Ballroom dancing. He is committed to using the freshest ingredients and supports local farmers.

Gary D. Black Managing Partner/Owner

Gary has owned and managed Cobalt Grille since it's opening in October 2000. Although Gary was born in California, he grew up just outside of Philadelphia where his grandfather Edward Mulholland and Uncles Edward and Jack operated one of the oldest diners in the country, the Mayfair Diner. Not only is the restaurant business a passion of Gary's, it's in his blood. Opting for warmer weather and the beach lifestyle, Gary attended Old Dominion University, where he received his B. S. degree in Business Administration. Gary has been in the restaurant business for over 30 years, working in all facets of the industry as a waiter, bartender and manager. Some of the more memorable Virginia Beach spots he has worked include La Broche, Sir Richard's Supper Club and Offshore Café. Coyote Café was the first restaurant Gary owned back in 1989. After 20 years in business, Coyote was recently sold. Some of Gary's other passions include spending time with his beautiful wife and four children, his great neighbors and the River Rats. He also enjoys surfing, traveling and reading. Additionally, he has been successful in the real estate "flipping" business for the last several years. Gary has been a part of several other restaurants and businesses throughout the years, but the incredible staff, along with partners Alvin Williams and Edda Barthold, makes the Cobalt Grille a truly wonderful experience!