Conversations with Leyla Jordan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leyla Jordan.

Hi Leyla, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Our story began with a simple love for good food and meaningful connection. What started as a small café inspired by our Mediterranean roots quickly grew into something much bigger. We poured our hearts into creating a space that feels warm, inviting, and full of soul — where people could gather over brunch, feel at home, and enjoy dishes made with fresh, honest ingredients.

In the early days, we did everything ourselves — from prepping ingredients at dawn to handling front-of-house duties. There were challenges, of course, but what kept us going was the response from our community. Seeing customers come back again and again, bringing friends and family, made all the hard work worth it.

As we grew, we stayed true to our identity while evolving our menu, expanding our team, and opening a second location. I’ve taken on more of the operations and creative direction over time, making sure every detail reflects our values. It’s been a journey of learning, growth, and persistence — and we’re proud of what Blue Daisy has become today: a neighborhood favorite with a loyal following, a place where quality, comfort, and community come together.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — like any small business, we’ve had our fair share of ups and downs.

In the beginning, we were figuring everything out as we went. We had a vision, but limited resources, so we had to be scrappy and hands-on with every aspect of the restaurant — from cooking to cleaning to customer service. There were times we were completely overwhelmed, running on no sleep, especially on weekends when we’d be packed from open to close.
The pandemic, of course, brought its own set of difficulties. We had to pivot quickly, adapt to new regulations, manage staff morale, and still find a way to keep the doors open and customers happy.

And even now, there are constant challenges — from staffing shortages to slow seasons — but I’ve learned that being flexible, staying grounded in your values, and truly listening to your community makes all the difference.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At Blue Daisy, we specialize in elevated brunch with a Mediterranean-Californian twist. Our menu is full of fresh, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, homemade touches, and comforting flavors.
My role is a mix of creative director and operator. I oversee everything from menu development and daily operations to staff training, branding, and the overall guest experience. I’m deeply involved in the small details — how the food looks, how the music feels, how the space smells. I believe all of that matters.

What sets us apart is the heart we put into everything. There’s an authenticity you feel the moment you walk in — it’s not just about trendy dishes or aesthetic decor; it’s about creating a space that feels like home. We’ve built a loyal community over the years, and I think it’s because people can sense that we genuinely care.

I’m most proud of the fact that we’ve grown this business from the ground up, without investors, just grit, vision, and consistency. Seeing people celebrate birthdays, bring their families, or make us part of their weekend ritual — that’s the biggest reward.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My biggest advice for anyone just starting out is this: don’t wait for everything to be perfect — just start. You’ll figure things out as you go. There’s no perfect moment, no perfect plan. The real learning happens when you’re in it — when you’re facing real challenges, making quick decisions, and learning how to pivot.

Also, know that consistency beats perfection. Show up every day, even when it’s hard. There will be slow days, stressful days, and moments of doubt — but if you stay consistent, focused, and open to growth, you’ll get through it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bluedaisycafe.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluedaisycafe/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bluedaisycafe/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/place/Blue-Daisy-22535796486642328?lang=en