Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
Carole Griffin hands over Continental Bakery + Chez Lulu to new owner
Reading time: 3 minutes

In a heartfelt letter, beloved restaurateur Carole Griffin announced today on social media that after 40 years she has handed the ownership of Continental Bakery and Chez Lulu over to David Griner.
According to the post, Griner has spent the past nine months with Griffin and her business partner Shea preparing to take over the eatery located at the gateway of English Village in Mountain Brook.
A beautiful letter to Continental Bakery and Chez Lulu patrons



Below is the entire post Griffin wrote on her personal Facebook page:
Sometimes, even the most wonderful news can be hard to put into words. And sometimes, the best way to say something is simply to say it. So today, I’m announcing that I’ve chosen to entrust Continental Bakery and Chez Lulu with a new owner.
The past 40 years have been so much more than a business or a job to me—more even than a calling or a vocation. The bakery has felt like a cherished child to me, or a beautiful dream, and I have poured my heart into nurturing and shepherding it through these forty years as a grateful attendant and rapt enthusiast.
The bakery has always led the way, and I’ve been honored to follow and participate in the magic that has unfolded every day within its walls. Many of you, as employees and customers over the years, know exactly what I mean—you’ve experienced it firsthand and partnered with me to make it happen.
Like a parent, though, there comes a moment to step back and clear the path for what’s ahead. And so Shea and I are overjoyed to announce that since early November 2024, the bakery and Chez Lulu have been in the loving and capable hands of an awesome fellow and kindred spirit.
David Griner, who first joined us as a baker, has translated his love for bread, the bakery and restaurant, and their mission into a vision for their future, and in early November stepped into the role as their new steward.
David, an Alabama native, journalist and nonprofit founder, has spent the past nine months in an intensive boot camp with Shea and me, preparing to take the reins. He’s already successfully navigated the holidays (no small feat!), and we couldn’t be more confident in his ability to guide the bakery into its next chapter. He has great instincts and wonderful ideas that align with our highest and best hopes for the business.
We hope you’ll stop by to give him a warm hug or a high five and continue supporting him as he carries on the grand adventure of Continental Bakery and Chez Lulu.
And so “Santé!” my friends, and thank you all for a beautiful 40 years! Here’s to the next 40!!
What’s Next

A Birmingham original — Griffin did not provide us many clues on what’s next for her. We look ahead to learning more about her new adventures.
Are you a big fan of Continental Bakery and Chez Lulu? Tell us your favorite memory of this special place by posting a comment on our social media. Remember to tag us at @bhamnow