Birmingham, October 16, 2025
News Summary
In Birmingham, renowned pastry chef Channah Willis has sold Last Call Baking Co. to Jimmy Truong. After achieving James Beard Award finalist status, Willis embarks on a new adventure as executive chef in NYC while Truong aims to maintain the bakery’s beloved offerings. The community continues to celebrate exciting culinary changes, including the recent opening of Rêve, a fine-dining restaurant in Pizitz Food Hall, led by chef Jacob M. Stull.
Birmingham Pastry Chef Channah Willis Sells Last Call Baking to Jimmy Truong
Exciting news is buzzing in Birmingham as Channah Willis, a talented pastry chef and James Beard Award finalist, has officially passed the baton of Last Call Baking Co. to Jimmy Truong, who is also the proud owner of June Coffee. This charming little bakery has been delighting locals since its opening in 2020, quickly becoming a hotspot with a loyal following known for its unique and mouthwatering pastries.
Willis made headlines in 2024 when she was named a finalist in the prestigious “Emerging Chef” category of the James Beard Awards. It’s a remarkable honor that sent her bakery to new heights and attracted not only local patrons but also visitors from out of town. Lines have often stretched down the block, showcasing just how popular Last Call Baking is.
As she embarks on the next chapter of her career, Willis has accepted a position as the executive chef at an award-winning pastry restaurant in New York City. Her announcement of the sale came via Instagram, where she described her decision as bittersweet. It’s never easy to part with something you’ve built, but she is confident that Jimmy Truong is the perfect fit for the bakery.
Truong has been a supportive presence from the beginning, sharing a vision for the community that aligns perfectly with Willis’s passions and dreams. As she prepares to say farewell to her beloved customers, she expressed heartfelt gratitude towards her staff, friends, family, and the Birmingham community for their unwavering support over the years. Willis will remain with Last Call Baking until November, giving her a chance to connect with the loyal clientele one last time.
Jimmy Truong, who opened June Coffee in 2022, has made his café a favorite local hangout. With Last Call Baking now under his ownership, he plans to maintain the staff and keep the menu the same, ensuring that the loyal customers will continue to receive the delightful offerings they have come to know and love.
Meanwhile, there’s more culinary excitement in Birmingham! A brand-new fine-dining concept named Rêve has recently opened its doors at the Pizitz Food Hall, promising a lavish dining experience with a tasting menu and cherished classic French dishes brought to life by chef Jacob M. Stull. Previously known for his successful pop-up dinners, Stull has now created a permanent home for Rêve, which is the only full-service restaurant in the food hall, featuring an open kitchen and seating for 78 guests.
Guests at Rêve will need to plan ahead, as reservations for the tasting menu are required at least 24 hours in advance, with a starting price of $150 per person. The stunning interior boasts preserved historical elements and artwork, immersing diners in a delightful reflection of French culture. In time, the restaurant plans to introduce an à la carte menu that will showcase even more classic French favorites, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers in Birmingham.
Wrap-Up
As the Birmingham food scene continues to evolve, both Last Call Baking and Rêve are set to enchant and delight diners with their unique offerings. The transition of ownership at Last Call Baking is a significant moment in the local culinary landscape, and it’s reassuring to know that the cherished traditions will continue under Jimmy Truong’s stewardship.
FAQ Section
Who has sold Last Call Baking Co.?
Channah Willis has sold Last Call Baking Co. to Jimmy Truong, owner of June Coffee.
What new role has Channah Willis accepted?
Willis has accepted a new role as executive chef at an award-winning pastry restaurant in New York City.
What is significant about Last Call Baking in 2024?
In 2024, Last Call Baking was named a James Beard Award finalist in the “Emerging Chef” category.
What is Rêve?
Rêve is a new fine-dining restaurant concept by chef Jacob M. Stull located in Birmingham’s Pizitz Food Hall, featuring a tasting menu and French cuisine favorites.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Previous Owner of Last Call Baking | Channah Willis |
| New Owner of Last Call Baking | Jimmy Truong |
| New Position for Channah Willis | Executive Chef in NYC |
| Award Recognition | James Beard Award Finalist (2024) |
| New Restaurant in Birmingham | Rêve |
| Rêve Chef | Jacob M. Stull |
| Tasting Menu Price at Rêve | $150 per person |
| Reservation Requirement | 24 hours in advance |
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Additional Resources
- Bham Now: James Beard Nominated Last Call Baking Sold to June Coffee
- AL.com: Birmingham Chef Opening City’s First Tasting Menu Restaurant
- StyleBlueprint: Best Bakeries in Birmingham
- The New York Times: Dolester Miles, Alabama Pastry Chef
- Birmingham Times: What’s Next for Celebrated Pastry Chef Dolester Miles?
- Wikipedia: James Beard Awards
- Google Search: Birmingham food scene
- Google Scholar: pastries in Birmingham
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cuisine
- Google News: Birmingham restaurants
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
