Eat: An American Bistro
about us
it’s 2006 and Erick Heilig is heading up a kitchen in a successful downtown Norfolk restaurant, when a series of what seemed to be unfortunate events takes place. really long story short, the restaurant he’s working in closes without warning.
WHAAA?
so just like that, Erick is out on the street. bandana on stick and sautee pan in hand, he's a man without a country. a chef without a kitchen. Erick recalls his mind being dominated by just one thought: "it's time."
clichés become clichés for good reason, and that "one door closing" saying has never been more true. serendipity took over and it wasn't long before Erick found the perfect little spot at the virginia beach oceanfront. everything seemed to fall into place. and the best part? this time it was all his.
the location had been many restaurants in the past, including the long-time virginia beach fave, ciolas's. (remember ciola's?) the place needed some serious love though. Erick did the build out himself, with support from family and many friends. sweat equity soon paid off and eat: an american bistro was born in October 2006.
eat opened to rave reviews. the creative food and casual atmosphere soon had many fans. fast forward - present day. it's been 16 years, and the creativity has never stopped. Erick, paul and staff continue to wow customers and convert fans daily.
Our Team:
Erick Heilig
chef & owner, jack of most trades
Erick's culinary career began in a small kitchen in chesapeake, with nothing but an electric stove and a box of kraft macaroni and cheese. (seriously, we're not kidding.) it wasn't long before he realized that, not only could he boil water and even heat up a hot pocket or two, but so much more. in his early twenties, he headed up several local kitchens, and when the time was right, opened eat and quickly converted first-time diners into loyal fans.
Chad Cruea
lead bar guy, the ref, sir mix-a-lot
Chad is the man (repeat THE MAN) behind the bar. whatever strikes your fancy, Chad will hook you up. hankering for something trendy? or wanna kick it more old school? he'll go from mule to manhattan, rita to rickey without batting an eyelash. oh, and when you stop by, be sure to ask him about his yuzu cooler (it's kind of famous).
more fun facts about Chad: he and Erick have been lifelong pals since high school. he's a lifelong lover of hallowee,and knows his way around a toolbox, which comes in handy around the shop. also, Erick says Chad makes the best hummus he's ever had. stop by for a cocktail, and maybe you can convince him to give up the recipe.
the dream? oh it's real, my friends.