Chili Willi’s Set to Open Friday
A new Tex-Mex restaurant with decades of history is set to open in Cornelius, bringing a revived concept to a new location.
Chili Willi’s opens today in the former space occupied by Waterman and Cowboy at 9615 Bailey Road.
The restaurant traces its roots to Huntington, West Virginia, where it operated from 1983 to 2011 and built a loyal following for its Tex-Mex cuisine and lively atmosphere.
Restaurateur Rob Duckworth — the force behind Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse, The Cellar and Link & Pin — is leading the project through a partnership with original owner and chef Ron Smith. Duckworth counted the restaurant among his favorite spots when he lived in Huntington. He took his wife there on their first date and returned often when visiting family after relocating to North Carolina.
The menu features ample size, scratch-made, wood-fired dishes such as coffee-rubbed hanger steak ($35), blackened mahi tacos ($25) and grilled salmon with ancho chile sauce ($28), alongside traditional favorites like carnitas tacos ($17), enchiladas ($12-$14), huevos rancheros ($10) and chimichangas ($14-$18).
Appetizer options feature chips and salsa ($6), Cadillac nachos ($15-$18) and queso fundido ($12).
The drink menu has a wide selection of beers ($5-$8), glasses of wine ($11-$13), margaritas ($12-$16) and specialty cocktails ($12-$16).
The completely redecorated space features bright accent colors, new tables and chairs. The sign that adorned the original Chili Willi’s in Huntington hangs inside.
Outside, there is a mix of brightly colored dining tables, a large firepit, and a wall of potted rosemary to beat back mosquitoes and the evening sun.
Chili Willi’s will be open daily, with extended hours on weekends. Walk-ins are welcome, with limited reservations offered during the week.
Photos by Jason Benavides
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