Meet the New President Behind Some of Alexandria’s Favorite Restaurants
From Ada’s on the River to Vola’s Dockside Grill, Nazia Millwala takes the helm as Alexandria Restaurant Partners’ founders step back from daily operations.
ALEXANDRIA, VA — If you’ve enjoyed a waterfront dinner at Ada’s on the River, shared a plate of pasta at Mia’s Italian Kitchen or celebrated an occasion at Vola’s Dockside Grill, you’ve experienced one of the dining destinations operated by Alexandria Restaurant Partners. Now, the company behind many of the area’s familiar restaurants has a new leader.
Alexandria Restaurant Partners (ARP) announced Monday, October 12, that Nazia Millwala, its former chief financial officer, has been named president. The appointment marks a planned leadership transition as partners Dave Nicholas, David Clapp and Scott Shaw shift away from day-to-day management while remaining involved in the business.
A Familiar Face Takes the Helm
Millwala joined ARP in January 2022 as vice president of finance and became chief financial officer in August 2024. As president, she will oversee operations, finance, employees and workplace culture, marketing, and food and beverage execution.
“Scott, David and I are incredibly proud of what our team has built, and we believe this is the right time to transition day-to-day leadership to Nazia,” Nicholas said in the company’s announcement. “She has earned the trust and respect of our team through her thoughtful leadership, broad business perspective and genuine commitment to our people.”
What Comes Next for Alexandria Diners?
Millwala’s initial priorities include expanding the executive leadership team, supporting a smooth transition and establishing an operational structure for the company’s future. Over the next 18 months, she intends to develop the next generation of restaurant managers, create opportunities for employees and deepen ARP’s community involvement.
The company also plans to strengthen catering and marketing and continue developing its restaurant concepts and guest experiences.
“ARP’s greatest strength is the people who bring our restaurants to life every day,” Millwala said. “My priority is to give our teams the clarity and support they need to do their best work. We have an incredible opportunity to build on what makes our restaurants special, find new ways to serve our guests and contribute even more to the communities we call home.”
From Dubai to Alexandria
Born and raised in Dubai, Millwala spent 12 years at Yum! Brands, parent company of KFC and Pizza Hut, in finance, marketing and development positions covering Canada, the Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan and Turkey. Earlier, she worked at KPMG with Fortune 500 companies.
She holds a commerce degree from the University of Wollongong in Australia and an International MBA from IE Business School in Madrid, Spain.
Restaurants With Local Roots
Founded in 2013, ARP’s portfolio includes Alexandria establishments Ada’s on the River, Mia’s Italian Kitchen, Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge, Theismann’s Restaurant and Bar, BARCA Pier & Wine Bar and the Royal Restaurant. It also operates Palette 22 in Arlington and restaurants in Orlando, Florida.
The leadership announcement did not identify changes to menus or restaurant locations. Instead, it signals who will guide the organization and its employees in the next chapter.
For a city where neighborhood restaurants often become gathering places for birthdays, family dinners and reunions with friends, Millwala’s emphasis on people and community is likely to be closely watched.
Source: Alexandria Restaurant Partners announcement, October 12, 2026.
