Our Team
William “Bill” Irvin
Restaurateur & Owner
William “Bill” Irvin has carved a distinguished path in the food, wine, and hospitality industries. A native of Monkton, Maryland, Bill began his career with Total Beverage, the largest retailer of wine and spirits in America, and later became the Wine and Spirit Education Director at Rémy Martin.
Transitioning to the restaurant industry, Bill served as Food and Beverage Director for Ruth's Chris Steak House before leading Phillips Seafood Restaurants through significant expansion, including 11 new openings and a successful franchising strategy.
After relocating to Wilmington, Bill founded Snuff Mill, a restaurant that embodies his passion for exceptional cuisine and fine wine. Bill continues to consult for restaurants across the Northeast, leveraging his extensive experience to help them thrive in a competitive market.
Brian Burnett
Mixologist & Beverage Director
Brian Burnett has made a significant impact on Snuff Mill Restaurant’s bar menu with his creative approach to mixology. With over 15 years of experience in hospitality, including fine dining, bartending, catering, and event management, Brian has enriched our offerings by crafting interesting and unusual cocktails that add exciting diversity to our selection. His expertise, honed at the Aqua Vitae Institute and through his work in Pennsylvania’s craft bar scene and at the University Whist Club, has elevated our cocktail program. Brian’s seasonal and distinctive cocktails continue to enhance the overall dining experience, providing guests with unique flavors that perfectly complement our farm-to-table menu.