News Summary
Carole Griffin, long-time owner of Continental Bakery and Chez Lulu, is passing ownership to David Griner after 40 years of dedicated service. Griffin’s heartfelt decision marks a new chapter for these esteemed establishments in Birmingham, with Griner promising to honor the bakery’s traditions while introducing fresh ideas. The community watches eagerly as the bakery prepares for an innovative future.
Exciting Changes Coming to Continental Bakery and Chez Lulu in Birmingham
After an incredible 40-year journey, Carole Griffin, the longtime owner of Continental Bakery and its beloved neighbor, Chez Lulu, is announcing a major transition in ownership. It’s a bittersweet moment for the community as Griffin makes her heartfelt exit, handing over the reins to the bakery’s talented general manager, David Griner.
A New Chapter for a Local Favorite
Griffin shared the news through her social media channels, expressing a mix of nostalgia and excitement for what lies ahead. After years of pouring her heart into these businesses, she and her partner, Shea Rives, have decided it’s time to step back and let the bright, creative Griner take the lead. For Griffin, the bakery has been akin to a “cherished child,” a project that has brought her immense joy but also significant dedication and hard work.
From College to Confectionery
Griffin’s journey started back in the 1970s when she left Birmingham to pursue her studies. Initially, she thought her move was permanent. However, upon returning, her heart was captivated by how much the city had transformed. At just 24 years old, Griffin took a leap of faith with a friend from Washington, D.C., and together they embarked on their baking adventure. With dreams of only moderate success, they opened Continental Bakery, starting off by focusing on classic Southern baked goods.
Expanding the Bakery’s Horizons
As the years went by, the bakery quickly outgrew its original concept. Griffin’s vision expanded, leading to the creation of Chez Lulu, an adjoining restaurant that offered a unique dining experience in the thriving café culture of Mountain Brook. This restaurant became a staple for both locals and visitors, showcasing the vibrant food scene in the area.
A Trusted Hand to Lead
David Griner has been with Continental Bakery for a significant time as a baker before seamlessly stepping into a management role in November 2024. This transition was part of a hands-on training approach, allowing him to learn every inch of the operation. Griner, who had initially paused a budding marketing career to follow his passion for baking, found himself deeply connected to the bakery’s ethos.
Griffin has expressed unwavering trust in Griner’s instincts and vision for the future. She believes he has the right mindset and creativity to lead the bakery into new realms while honoring the cherished traditions that customers have come to love over the years.
A Bright Future with New Ideas
In his initial messages to the community, Griner thanked the dedicated team of over 60 employees for their support and enthusiasm during this transition. His promise is clear: he intends to uphold Griffin’s fabulous vision while also introducing exciting innovations to the menu and customer experience. He reassured loyal patrons that the beloved favorites would remain intact, but there would also be fresh surprises waiting for them.
What’s Next for Carole Griffin?
As this transition begins, the community is abuzz with curiosity about what lies ahead for Carole Griffin. Although she hasn’t shared any concrete plans yet, one thing is certain: her legacy within the Birmingham baking scene will not soon be forgotten. Her passion and dedication have nurtured a bakery that has become an essential part of the local culture.
With freshly baked goods and a community of loyal patrons, Continental Bakery and Chez Lulu stand poised for a bright future. As Griffin steps away, her heart remains intertwined with these cherished businesses, hoping that they continue to thrive and fill the hearts of many with warmth and deliciousness for years to come.
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HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Iconic Mountain Brook Bakery Eatery Changes Ownership
- OTMJ: Continental Bakery/Chez Lulu Expands to Downtown Birmingham
- Style Blueprint: Best Bakeries in Birmingham
- Bham Now: Carole Griffin Hands Over Continental Bakery to New Owner
- Village Living: Longtime Pastry Chef Opens Own Bakery
- Wikipedia: Birmingham, Alabama
