“I knew I was going to be an entrepreneur … I didn’t know it was going to be in the baking industry,” Gregory said. “That’s how I grew up mixing certain things together. I’m doing it now. I’m allowed to play in my big kitchen.”
Gregory’s Gourmet Desserts has been Oakland’s best kept secret for over 22 years. The hidden spot is filled with everything from decadent cookies to specialty pies — and countless customers ready to sample Gregory’s latest creations.
It all started when a local bakery stopped selling Gregory’s favorite apple crumble cheesecake.
“A really good friend of mine said, ‘Why don’t you do it yourself?'” he said. “And she ended up buying me a cookbook and a springform pan, and I taught myself how to make this apple crumble cheesecake. And that’s how I started.”
In addition to creating unique treats, Gregory bakes to inspire the next generation and honor his family.
“I’m leaving some history for my grandchildren, I wanted to leave something for them,” he said. “You can say, ‘Grandpa did this, we can do this.'”
Gregory’s grandmother, mother and uncle are painted on the bakery building as a tribute.
“To be the first to start a business, to be the first to just get started,” Gregory said. “I’m glad I’m a positive role model for young kids who want to do it.”
To order and learn more visit here and follow @gregorysgourmetdesserts on Instagram.
https://abc13.com/gregorys-gourmet-desserts-oaklands-underground-bakery-butterfinger-cookies-hidden-dessert-shop/11660739/ Entrepreneur Gregory Williams inspires youth with an underground bakery
