Our Team
Chef Jacob M. Stull
Chef Jacob M. Stull is a culinary visionary whose passion for innovative cuisine has earned him acclaim and a loyal following, both in the kitchen and the community. A Maryland native, Jacob honed his skills on the East Coast and in the vibrant culinary scene of New Orleans. After opening Forte in Tuscaloosa with the James Beard Award-winning group, Concentrics — out of Atlanta — he decided to forge a path of his own and set his sights to greater pastures.
His passion brings a unique blend of creativity and technique to every dish he creates. Inspired by seasonal ingredients and local flavors, while embracing his family’s French heritage, Chef Stull crafts a tasting menu that reflects his commitment to quality and artistry. His culinary philosophy emphasizes the importance of storytelling through food, inviting diners to embark on a sensory journey with each course.
Now he’s broken out on his own in downtown Birmingham, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region while pushing boundaries and exploring new flavor profiles. Join him in his culinary haven, where his unwavering conviction for reaching new culinary heights shines through in every carefully curated plate.
Chef John SMith
Born and raised in Tuscaloosa, Smith’s love for food stemmed from his mother and grandmother, who often pulled him into the kitchen when he was just a boy. After high school, Smith began working in local diners to learn the basics of restaurant cooking: how to work a line, how to hold a knife, survive a rush, etc., before expanding his skill set at hotel restaurant, Side by Side. Smith went on to gain invaluable experience in the European-inspired restaurant, Forté, where he worked alongside acclaimed chef, Jacob Stull.
When Chef Stull revealed plans to embark on a daring new concept, Smith didn’t hesitate. Trading stability for a dream, Smith stepped into the role of Sous Chef at Reve, driven by a shared vision to redefine the dining experience. Whether crafting intricate dishes or mentoring the kitchen team, Smith’s passion for culinary innovation continues to shine through.
Chef Caitlyn Cole
Hailing from Newnan, GA, her first job was working at her great uncle’s wing shack at age 14, followed by a hosting position at her favorite Hibachi restaurant where she learned the ins and outs of pacing and customer service. Her first stint behind the line was at Your Pie Pizza, where she first felt connected to working with dough and learned the value of fresh ingredients. This early immersion in the restaurant world ignited her interest in the industry, though she originally attended the University of Alabama to pursue a nursing degree.
Cate joined the team at Forté, learning the craft of culinary art under Chef Jacob Stull. Her eyes were opened to the beauty and depth of culinary creations as a form of storytelling, and she left the nursing program to pursue her evolving passion as she quickly worked her way to the pastry chef of Forté. Cate proudly followed Chef Stull to Rêve, serving as both the Maitre D and pastry chef during the restaurant’s pop-up phase and later falling back to focus on elevating the dessert program as the concept transitioned to its permanent home in Pizitz Food Hall. Her passion for creating beautifully crafted pastries and desserts is matched by her drive to foster a culture of respect and creativity in the kitchen.
Cate resides in the Birmingham metro area and, despite the challenges of being a young woman in a demanding industry, is determined to continue breaking barriers and contributing to the evolution of the culinary world.
Chelsea Cheyenne
Beverage Director
Chelsea Cheyenne began her career in theatre, drawn to the thrill of entertainment and creative expression. She discovered bartending through restaurant work and quickly realized that hospitality offered a stage of its own—one where every night is a performance, and every cocktail is an opportunity to create something special. She believes that even if she’s made the same drink a hundred times, for someone, it’s their first time experiencing it. That philosophy drives her approach as Beverage Director at Reve, where she curates drinks that turn ordinary moments into unforgettable ones. Whether it’s a milestone celebration or a casual night out, Chelsea ensures every guest’s experience is fresh, exciting, and filled with a touch of magic. Working alongside a team of like-minded creatives, she is committed to making every sip and every visit one to remember.