A Taste of Destiny
“I grew up in a small fishing town where I learned early on that what we put into our bodies truly matters. My career began as a line cook, building skills the hard way one shift at a time. Everything changed when I dined at Chef David Bouley’s restaurant in New York City. That meal was life-altering. I was invited into the kitchen to meet him, and he hired me on the spot. Under his mentorship, I learned every corner of the kitchen and worked my way up, discovering not just how to cook, but how to create an experience for every guest.”
Turning Tragedy Into Triumph
“When Chef Bouley sent me to Paris to train in Michelin-starred kitchens like Arpège, it pushed me beyond anything I thought possible. I returned as Chef de Cuisine and spent years refining my craft at his flagship restaurant. My final menu from that time still hangs at Flatiron, signed by Chef Bouley himself, and it reminds me where I came from. Afterward, I became a partner at a West Village restaurant called Midway. We were thriving until September 11 changed everything. That tragedy reshaped my path and strengthened my resolve to build something meaningful.”
Travel, Teaching, and Connection
“I moved my family to the Charlotte area and opened Bentley’s on 27th, where I also discovered a deep love for teaching at Johnson & Wales. Sharing knowledge became just as fulfilling as cooking. Through that work, I met Master Chef John Sloan, who invited me to Singapore to train airline chefs in plating and molecular gastronomy. That experience broadened my vision and continues to influence my dishes today, especially our signature salmon entrée. Traveling, teaching, and learning reminded me that food is a universal language—one that connects people across cultures and moments.”
A Perfect Pairing
“One night, while celebrating my daughter’s 16th birthday, I dined at Flatiron and saw its potential instantly. I knew I could bring something special to the Lake Norman community, and that decision changed my life again. Today, Flatiron is home. I focus on clean eating, thoughtful composition, and partnerships with local farmers and vendors for meat, produce, and fish. Cooking has always been about passion, integrity, and connection for me. I love meeting guests and sharing my story, my food, and my gratitude with the community that welcomed me so warmly.”
**Sidebar/pull quote:
“We believe dining should always be an experience, not just a meal. That’s why we host cocktail classes, wine and bourbon dinners, and tasting menus that pair creative pours with elevated cuisine. Chef Bill’s off-menu specials invite guests to step outside their comfort zone and try something new. With our passion extending beyond the table and into the community, we proudly support local youth sports and the Davidson Community Players, and we partner with rescue organizations to help shelter dogs find forever homes. Giving back—whether through food, friendship, or furry companions—is part of who we are.”
Flatiron Kitchen + Taphouse is located at 215 S Main in Davidson. Contact them at 704.237.3246 or visit www.flatirononmain.com.
