The duo will share the same building but operate as separate entities, owned by Tampa natives Nate Siegel and Merrin Jenkins. Siegel is a seasoned restaurateur and former VP of New American Tampa restaurant Mise en Place, bringing loads to expertise to launching a fresh concept during a pandemic.
In a recent interview with Tampa Bay Business Journal, Siegel shared that he is shooting for Willa's to be a neighborhood staple, a lowkey place to mingle and dine.
"With Covid, the playbook's void," Siegel told TBBJ. "We have no rules anymore; we can really do anything as long as it’s really good. That’s all we’re trying to do. We’re not trying to be new or flashy. Classic, simple, but great quality."
We can also expect a heavy focus on takeout business, packaged goods and classic eats neighborhood eatery bites like a "great rotisserie chicken."
Willa’s Provisions on the other hand will act as a coffee shop and retail space featuring products from local makers.
If you want to plug in the addresses into your phone for safekeeping, Willa's is stationed at 1700 W. Fig St., while Willa's Provisions is technically located at 310 N. Rome Ave. on the opposite corner of Rome + Fig.
The restaurant is currently looking to fill a handful of positions including assistant general manager, kitchen manager, maitre d' and sous chef. If you're interested in working for the soon-to-be new kid in town, visit Willa's website willastampa.com. More details to come as Willa's and its sister coffee shop finish up renovations, hiring and announced an official opening date.
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This article appears in Jan 7-13, 2021.