16 West, Embrace the Brand StartFragment Recently, I had the honor and pleasure of meeting the founder and owner of the 16 West restaurant and lounge. Located in the heart of old towne Petersburg at 16 West Old Street. Ms. Contessa Gilbert is a native of the Hawaiian Islands, but has lived most of her life in Petersburg, VA. As a single mother of two daughters, Ms.Gilbert is a Veteran of the United States military, a business owner, and currently serves as a Registered Nurse