RICHMOND, VA — Hilton Richmond Downtown proudly announces the appointment of Chef Tia Wood as its new Executive Chef, bringing more than a decade of experience and a deep-rooted passion for local flavors to the hotel’s culinary program—including its signature cocktail bar and lounge, Gather & Hem.
A Richmond Native with a Global Palate
Chef Wood, a Richmond local, has made a name for herself across the city’s top restaurants. She most recently served as Executive Chef with The Housepitality Family, leading culinary teams at Boathouse and Casa del Barco, where she elevated the dining experience with creative, locally sourced menus.
Her earlier experience includes key culinary leadership roles at:
- Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants – Kitchen Manager
- The Jefferson Hotel – Banquet Garde Manger Chef
- Bonefish Grill, Rock Bottom Brewery, and Richmond Country Club
A graduate of Stratford University with an associate’s degree in culinary arts, Chef Wood is committed to continued learning as she leads the next chapter at Hilton Richmond Downtown.
Seasonal Dining at Gather & Hem
As Executive Chef, Wood will oversee seasonal menu development and event catering across the hotel. This summer, Gather & Hem will debut a new menu featuring inventive regional fare, including:
- Richmond Egg Rolls with Mexicali Ranch
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Crème Brûlée with a torched cookie dough crust
These dishes complement the venue’s recently launched summer cocktail and mocktail menu, which includes:
- Maymont Muse – a floral, citrus-forward gin cocktail
- Chesapeach – a bold peach-tajin cocktail
- RVA Sunset – a blackberry-pineapple mocktail inspired by Richmond skies
Event Catering Reimagined
Hilton Richmond Downtown features 17,000+ square feet of event space, including:
- Two elegant ballrooms
- The Ensemble hybrid meeting room
- The stylish Gather & Hem lounge (private/semi-private events up to 120 guests)
Under Chef Wood’s leadership, the hotel will continue to offer custom, chef-driven catering menus for occasions from intimate celebrations to receptions for up to 270 guests.
About Hilton Richmond Downtown
Located at 501 E Broad Street, Hilton Richmond Downtown blends historic architecture with modern hospitality. Originally the famed Miller & Rhoads department store, the property offers upscale accommodations, signature dining, and sophisticated event venues in the heart of downtown Richmond.
Learn More
- Call: (804) 344-4300
- Hilton Richmond Downtown Info
- Gather & Hem Website
- Follow: @gatherandhem and @hiltonrichmonddowntown on Instagram & Facebook
