NEW: Big Spoon Creamery owners to purchase Pizza Grace

In a major move for Birmingham’s food scene, Big Spoon Creamery owners Ryan and Geri-Martha O’Hara are the new owners of Pizza Grace, the award-winning pizza concept located in Mercantile on Morris.

The sale from founder Ryan Westover and Helene Jones will be finalized on May 30.

We got the “scoop” from O’Hara about the future of Pizza Grace—read on for details.

Pizza Grace passes the torch

Founded by Ryan Westover and Helene Jones, Pizza Grace opened in early 2022 and has quickly become one of the hottest spots for foodies in downtown Birmingham.

In 2023, the cozy restaurant on Morris Avenue was named one of the Best New Restaurants in the South by Southern Living and and was a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s “Best New Restaurant in America” award.

According to Ryan and Helene, who are relocating to Washington, D.C., making the decision to sell Pizza Grace didn’t come lightly.

“For the last 4 years we’ve had the honor of bringing Pizza Grace to life. As is the experience of many other business owners, we have learned hard lessons, pivoted as necessary, celebrated major accomplishments, and felt the joy that only comes from pouring all of yourself into a dream and seeing it thrive. Every decision we’ve made over the last four years has been rooted in the desire to grow, develop a deeper appreciation for the local food system, support our staff, and bring a simple, yet quality dining experience and product to our beloved guests.”

Ryan Westover & Helene Jones, Founders, Pizza Grace

Early in 2025, Birmingham-based Big Spoon Creamery owners Ryan and Geri-Martha O’Hara heard that Pizza Grace’s owners were looking to sell. At the time, O’Hara says, they weren’t shopping for a restaurant but the more they talked about it, the more they felt it made sense for them.

When it came time to sell, they weren’t willing to hand the business over to just anyone.

“We wanted to make sure that we passed the restaurant off to someone who cared for the Birmingham community, had a commitment to excellence, worked directly in the local food ecosystem and fostered a work culture that was rooted in respect and dignity.

We found that in Geri-Martha and Ryan O’Hara.

We’ve been huge fans of their work at Big Spoon since we moved to Birmingham in June of 2021. We often find ourselves enjoying a scoop on their dreamy string-light coated patio. Over the last few weeks, we have had the pleasure of getting to know them as small business owners and community members. We are thrilled that they are going to take our little dream and add their approach to food, atmosphere and hospitality.”

Ryan Westover & Helene Jones, Founders, Pizza Grace

The O’Haras join the Pizza Grace family

Fans of Pizza Grace can breathe easy—the concept isn’t going anywhere. In fact, the name will remain the same, and according to Ryan O’Hara, the signature dough recipe isn’t changing either.

“For people who like Pizza Grace now, they’re still going to love it. The name is going to stay the same, but we’re going to give it a refresh. I think what makes the pizza special is the sourdough crust, which will pretty much stay the same. We’re not messing with the dough.”

Ryan O’Hara, Owner, Big Spoon Creamery + Pizza Grace

While the award-winning dough stays the same, other things will evolve. O’Hara says they plan to expand the menu with more small bites and—unsurprisingly—more desserts.

“Our goal isn’t to change everything; we’re just building upon something that’s already great but with a wider menu. It’ll have a fresh look and some fresh interiors.”

Ryan O’Hara, Owner, Big Spoon Creamery + Pizza Grace

O’Hara says that Pizza Grace is expected to close briefly after May 30 for a light refresh and will reopen in mid-to-late June with a slightly expanded menu and updated interiors.

A heartfelt farewell to Birmingham

In a farewell statement, Ryan and Helene expressed his gratitude for the Birmingham community for the last four years.

“We cannot wait to see how Pizza Grace grows in the weeks and years to come. 

Thank you BHM for welcoming us, keeping us, and allowing us to grow and develop as small business owners and humans. We love you.”

Ryan Westover + Helene Jones, Founders, Pizza Grace

Want to give the founders a goodbye visit? Head to Pizza Grace at 2212 Morris Ave Suite 105 before they close on May 30 for the transition.

What are your thoughts on the sale of Pizza Grace? Tag us @bhamnow + let us know!