News Summary
Birmingham’s renowned pizza establishment, Pizza Grace, is under new management as Ryan and Geri-Martha O’Hara, founders of Big Spoon Creamery, take charge. The duo is set to maintain beloved menu items while introducing fresh small bites and desserts, ensuring a delightful experience for both new and returning customers. The transition comes as the previous owners, Ryan Westover and Helene Jones, hope to pass the culinary torch to community-focused restaurateurs. Pizza Grace is expected to reopen mid-to-late June 2024 after renovations, with exciting changes in store for Birmingham food lovers.
Birmingham’s Pizza Scene Gets a Tasty Shake-Up!
Birmingham, Alabama, is buzzing with excitement as the beloved pizza joint, Pizza Grace, has just been acquired by the dynamic duo behind Big Spoon Creamery, Ryan and Geri-Martha O’Hara. This unexpected development has local food enthusiasts all abuzz with curiosity and anticipation!
What’s Cooking at Pizza Grace?
Pizza Grace has made quite an impression in the food world since it opened its doors in late 2021. Founded by esteemed pastry chef Ryan Westover and the talented Helene Jones, it quickly earned accolades, including a spot on Southern Living’s list of Best New Restaurants in the South for 2023. Known for its signature, naturally leavened dough crafted from whole wheat flour, this place has certainly made a name for itself.
While the details surrounding the purchase price remain a mystery, one thing is for sure: the O’Hara’s are thrilled to step into this new chapter and are committed to bringing the same passion for food and hospitality that fueled the success of Big Spoon Creamery to their new culinary venture.
Keeping the Essence, Adding a Fresh Spin
The O’Hara’s have reassured loyal fans that while they plan on introducing new small bites and desserts, the core pizza recipes will remain untouched. This means classics like the pepperoni pizza with Aleppo pepper and the delightful vegetable pizza, which showcases local ingredients, will still grace the menu. The name Pizza Grace will also remain, preserving the charming identity that locals have come to love.
A Heartfelt Transition
The decision to sell Pizza Grace wasn’t an easy one for Westover and Jones, but they are delighted to pass the torch to owners who genuinely care about the Birmingham community. The O’Hara’s have a rich background in the Birmingham restaurant scene; they initially crossed paths while working at the renowned Bottega restaurant. After starting Big Spoon Creamery as a pop-up in their driveway in 2014 and establishing a brick-and-mortar location in Avondale in 2017, they have expanded their reach to Homewood and Huntsville.
The Future Looks Bright
As the O’Hara’s take over, they plan to keep the establishment’s strong foundation intact, while infusing it with fresh vision and energy. Following a brief closure for renovations, Pizza Grace is set to reopen in mid-to-late June 2024 with an expanded menu and a refreshed interior that’s sure to delight both new and old patrons alike.
Customers can look forward to not just delicious pizzas but also an enhanced dining experience that embodies the community spirit of Birmingham. The O’Hara’s commitment to fostering a respectful work culture and excelling in culinary creativity suggests that everyone involved in the transition is on the same page when it comes to what truly matters: quality food and genuine hospitality.
The Buzz Grows!
Pizza Grace isn’t just resting on its laurels. The restaurant has been recognized as a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s “Best New Restaurant in America” award, showcasing its exceptional offerings. With the O’Hara’s at the helm, the future looks incredibly promising. It’s an exciting time for food lovers in Birmingham, as they can eagerly await what delicious surprises the new owners will bring to the table.
So, pizza enthusiasts, prepare yourselves for everything delicious that’s to come at the revamped Pizza Grace! The O’Hara’s passion and dedication are sure to elevate the already stellar reputation of this gem of a pizzeria. With the perfect balance of maintaining classic favorites and introducing new delights, Birmingham’s pizza scene is about to get even more delectable!
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