Beverly Experiences Sweet Success With Popular Ridgeway Bakery
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Pastry chef Derrick Beverly has come a long way since taking first place in the St. John’s Missionary Church Youth Cake Bake-Off.
The baking extraordinaire and former owner of Cakes by Derrick now is owner of the Cake and Dessert Pantry on Ridgeway’s Greensboro Road. While Beverly still follows the delectable recipes made popular by the shop’s original owners, the bakery now offers classes in cake decorating and candy making. Customers also find everything needed to bake the perfect cake, from boxes, boards and kits, to candy- and confection-making supplies. The Cake and Dessert Pantry also carries a wide selection of balloons, which is fitting considering Beverly opens the bakery for children’s birthday celebrations.
“My goal is to provide the community with more than just great baked goods,” Beverly says. “I want people of all ages to have a chance to come, learn and experience the genuine passion I feel for all facets of culinary arts.”
Beverly, who earned his culinary degree from Rhode Island’s Johnson & Wales University, shares his trade with students through shadowing and internship programs, and provides leadership to up-and-coming chefs as an instructor at Patrick Henry Community College. His skills have earned the Indiana native multiple awards, including the Certified Executive Chef designation from the American Culinary Federation.
At the shop, Beverly and his team bake and decorate an average of 60 custom cakes per week, not counting wedding cakes and the infamous cupcakes that have long earned the Cake and Dessert Pantry local fame. The bakery also provides dessert catering, including Beverly’s signature service: the Grande Dessert Buffet featuring classical tortes and pastries, a chef action station and a gourmet coffee and beverage bar.
Story by Melanie Hill
