Leila Bakery & Cafe

About Leila Bakery & Cafe

Leila Bakery & Cafe’s story begins with Chef Kelly Ball’s original venture, Naturally Curly Cook. What started as a playful blog about food, recipes, and the joy of cooking soon evolved into a more substantial project. Kelly’s enthusiasm for culinary creativity led to finding an affordable industrial kitchen near downtown Dallas. Here, they began crafting fresh, handmade baked goods, catering services, and even braving the 3 a.m. shifts at Farmer’s Markets. The success of this endeavor sparked the idea of expanding beyond the blog into a full-fledged business.

Growing Our Fanbase with Homemade Delights

As the business progressed, word spread about their delicious offerings, particularly the hand-made, finger-pushed quiche, and the flaky crust that became a signature of their brand. People were drawn to the authentic, homemade taste, and soon Leila Bakery gained a loyal fan base. With each passing year, their reputation grew, and their baked goods became a staple for many Dallas locals. Customers eagerly awaited every Farmer’s Market and catering event, building a community around Kelly’s passion for food.

The Leap to Leila Bakery & Cafe in Lakewood

As demand increased and the business flourished, the time came for a new chapter. Kelly and her team knew it was time to move into a permanent home for their bakery. They found a charming and perfect spot in the Lakewood neighborhood of Dallas, which became the new location for the business. It was in this new space that the bakery adopted its new name—Leila Bakery & Cafe.

The Story Behind the Name ‘Leila’

The name Leila was chosen with great thought and heart. It is named after Kelly’s husband’s aunt from Serbia, a woman who had a profound impact on the family. The warm relationship with Aunt Leila was built on love, food, and shared experiences, despite the language barrier. To honor her, a colorful, warm lamp that once belonged to Aunt Leila hangs proudly over the register, serving as a constant reminder of the connection between family, cooking, and the warmth that fills the cafe.

A Warm and Welcoming Space for All

Leila Bakery & Cafe isn’t just a place to grab a bite—it’s a space to feel at home. From the moment you step through the door, you’ll experience the genuine warmth and love that goes into every aspect of the cafe. Whether you’re here for one of our freshly made quiches, baked goods, or simply to relax with a coffee, our space is designed to make you feel cared for. We hope you’ll be inspired by the music, the delicious food, and the community we’ve built.

Bringing Family, Food, and Love Together

Leila Bakery & Cafe is a reflection of Chef Kelly Ball’s philosophy: good food, great company, and a warm atmosphere can transform any day. Our menu is crafted with love, using the finest ingredients, and we take pride in serving you with the same care and attention we’d give to our own family. We are committed to creating a space where connections are made over food, and where every customer feels like part of the Leila family.