Rocky Mount’s dining and commercial landscape is about to be transformed with the opening of Lilyann’s Steakhouse and the accompanying businesses at the newly developed Gateway Center. This visionary project, spearheaded by Greg and Tolston Williams, combines a long-held dream of bringing upscale dining to the area with the revitalization of a prime commercial space.

Lilyann’s Steakhouse is the result of over 15 years of planning and dreaming by longtime friends and now business partners Greg, Tolston, and James. The vision finally found a home in 2023 when Tolston began the process of acquiring the Gateway Center, offering the perfect location for the community’s first high-end steakhouse.

The steakhouse’s name carries heartfelt significance, honoring Lilyann Melissa Williams, the daughter of Tolston and granddaughter of Greg. Lilyann was named in memory of Greg’s late wife, Melissa, and the branding—featuring cows and a lily flower—symbolizes the family’s love and connection, “The image with a little cow standing in front of a bigger cow was meant to symbolize Greg/Tolston always looking after their beloved Lilyann” says James. Atlas Branding of Asheville brought the vision to life, creating an identity that is both personal and elegant.

The menu at Lilyann’s, crafted by Executive Chef Michael, promises to impress, offering signature dishes like a 32oz Tomahawk Ribeye, Colossal Shrimp Martini, and Bleu Berg Salad. The restaurant’s open-concept kitchen enhances the dining experience, allowing guests to watch the culinary team in action. Thoughtful design details, from comfortable seating to custom lighting, reflect the team’s dedication to providing a top-tier experience.

The Gateway Center, formerly known as the Gateway Convention Center, is poised to become a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and events. In addition to Lilyann’s Steakhouse, the space will house several exciting new businesses:

-Barley & Burger, a local favorite, will relocate from Zebulon Road.

-Delta Dawn, a Western boutique, will bring unique retail offerings to the area.

- A newly renovated event venue will provide a premier space for weddings, corporate gatherings, and special events, with Lauren Williams managing sales and Chef Michael overseeing catering.

The Gateway Center will also feature additional retail and dining options, with more announcements expected soon. For entrepreneurs seeking a home for their business, commercial space is still available.

For Greg, Tolston, and James, this project is about more than business—it’s about giving back to their hometown. “This is our home, and we love this community,” they shared. “Lilyann’s belongs to the community, and we’re here to support it in any way we can.”

The team invites the community to join them in this exciting new chapter by dining at Lilyann’s, “The best way to support us in these early stages? Come visit!”

Lilyann’s Steakhouse will host soft opening events to thank friends, family, and local first responders for their support. Additionally, a social media contest will offer followers the chance to win a Dinner for Four. The official opening date is set for early December, with a grand opening celebration to follow in early 2025.

For more information about commercial space at the Gateway Center, contact Chip Williams at First Carolina Realty at 252-985-2321.

The Gateway Center and Lilyann’s Steakhouse represent a bold step forward for Rocky Mount, offering new opportunities for dining, shopping, and community connection. With their roots firmly planted in the local soil, the Williams family and their team are ready to usher in a new era of growth and vibrancy for the area.