A Southern breakfast favorite is set to make its Montgomery debut as Big Bad Breakfast prepares to open in the historic Old Cloverdale District later this month.
The restaurant, created by James Beard Foundation Award-winning restaurateur John Currence, is expected to be the first tenant to open at the new Old Cloverdale Village redevelopment along East Fairview Avenue, with a grand debut planned for late March 2026.
Developers recently announced the project has completed its core and shell construction phase as leasing activity continues. In addition to Big Bad Breakfast, signed tenants include House of Alchemy and Cloverdale Creamery.
House of Alchemy, created by local entrepreneur Morgan Chappell, will feature a wine bar, coffee shop and bookstore concept. Cloverdale Creamery will operate as a neighborhood ice cream shop run by owners Sam and Tara Bush.
“We are thrilled for House of Alchemy and Cloverdale Creamery to be part of this vibrant new chapter for Old Cloverdale Village,” said Michael Reilly of The FiveStone Group and Bayer Ventures. “These concepts fit perfectly into the neighborhood and the retail vision for this property. It’s a privilege to welcome them to the community.”
House of Alchemy is being designed by local architect Andy Graydon and interior designer Laura Dockery of Laura Dockery Design. The concept will offer wines by the glass, charcuterie plates and specialty coffees, along with a retail section selling bottled wines and books.
“I’m excited to bring House of Alchemy to the greater Montgomery community and create a space that’s both inviting and inspiring,” said Chappell. “Whether you’re looking to unwind over a glass of wine with a friend, discover a new favorite book, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning, House of Alchemy will offer something for everyone. I look forward to opening our doors to the community early next year.”
Cloverdale Creamery will offer a variety of classic and inventive ice cream flavors served by the scoop.
“Opening a brick-and-mortar ice cream shop has always been a dream of ours, and Old Cloverdale Village presented the perfect opportunity to bring it to life,” said owner Sam Bush. “We can’t wait to introduce our ice cream offerings to the community and make Cloverdale Creamery a new favorite stop.”
The project is being developed through Old Cloverdale Village Holding LLC, a partnership that includes The FiveStone Group, Bayer Ventures, D&A Companies, Fresh Hospitality, and restaurateur Charles Morgan.
Located near the epicenter of Alabama’s state capitol, the Old Cloverdale District is widely known for its historic homes, distinctive architecture and neighborhood character. Developers say the project involves revitalizing a 109-year-old structure to help restore the property as a neighborhood gathering place while contributing to economic activity in the area.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
