Chef Diane is a creative , exceptional chef and entrepreneur who is now doing a masterful job elevating the Willard Hicks experience for South County foodies . Prior to WH , Diane owned and operated Just in Thyme Catering , which she later transitioned into a brick-and-mortar Gilroy gem , Café Thyme . Four years later , she became Executive Chef at the hot new Gilroy eatery , Relish Kitchen + Drink . Throughout her career , Diane ’ s passion for creating upscale menus — centered around the local bounty of agriculture , artisans , and purveyors — established her as one of South County ’ s finest and most creative chefs . Always striving to deliver seasonal , sustainable , and as-local-as-possible dishes that delight and satisfy her fans , Diane has also created exquisite farm to table events over the years in collaboration with local venues and organizations .

Willard Hicks opened its Morgan Hill location in 2018 , helping to transform the emerging downtown district into a regional gem . These days , downtown Morgan Hill is a vibrant , bustling , and welcoming center of art , culture , fine dining , and boutique shops . Owners Molly and Marcus Adams saw the potential in Morgan Hill and decided to expand their brand into the South County . By establishing Willard Hicks and two of their other well-known restaurants , Opa ! and Mo ’ s Breakfast + Burger Joint , they have solidified their stake in the region , and aligned themselves to the bright future of Downtown Morgan Hill .

Willard Hicks and Chef Diane can make dining a delightful experience on their own . However , to send things over the top , we invited one of our favorite South County power couples . On this Dining Out excursion we had the great pleasure of hanging out and breaking bread with our fun and hilarious friends , Victoria and Brian Verdin .

Brian is the Executive Manager of Nissan of Gilroy . His 33- year career in the automotive industry began in Gilroy , a community he and Victoria love . They donate generously to various nonprofits and causes , and can always be found supporting community events . Happy to be back in Gilroy after spending 27 years of his career in the Salinas area , Brian opened Nissan of Gilroy for the Groppetti Automotive Group just over four years ago . Victoria recently retired after 32 years with the Social Security Administration , and when not supporting local events and organizations , she enjoys her time with their son and daughter-in-law , Daniel and Flor , their grandchildren Mia and Daniel , and their two French Bulldogs , Duchess and Duke .

With everyone ’ s busy schedules , we finally were able to connect on a Monday night . Even though it was a school night , we managed to have a great time . We only stayed out a little past curfew . From first “ Hellos ” to final “ Goodnights ” we shared lots of laughs , great stories , and of course great food , drink , and service from Chef Diane and her staff .

The night started at the bar . If you follow this column , that ’ s not a surprise . Our joyful Mixologist Michelle discussed Willard Hicks ’ “ Craft Libations 14 ” specialty drink menu offerings with us , answering our questions , and offering her expert guidance until we settled on our drinks of choice .

Brian selected the Market Delight ( El Tesoro Blanco tequila , Aperol ( an Italian liqueur ), fresh lime juice , strawberries , and orange bitters ). A self-proclaimed “ person who favors a drink with strawberries ,” All he could say was the drink was well named and “ delightful .”

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