PHOENIX — We’re Open, Arizona! Highlighting restaurants in our state working to keep their kitchens open, people working, and the community fed. It’s part of our greater initiative we’re calling “The Rebound Arizona.”
Our next story takes us to a Jewel in the desert near 40th Street and Thomas Road in Phoenix.
At Jewel’s Bakery and Cafe, you’ll be hard pressed to find a closer family.
“It’s always been a family-run business so we take care of our staff like they are family. Most of them actually legitimately are family,” said Justine Dachel, who runs the restaurant alongside her mom, Julie.
Julie started the business nearly seven years ago at farmers markets around town.
Their menu caters to all kinds of food allergies without sacrificing flavor. View menu.
“My sister was diagnosed with Celiac disease when she was 10. She really stopping eating food because food on the grocery shelf was garbage. It was no good,” she said.
They are known for their fried chicken.
“We’ve won some awards for that,” she said.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, staying open is not about their bottom line, it’s about helping others.
“There’s not a lot of food options for people with allergies that is safe food,” she said, “especially for our customers. There’s stuff that they can’t get at grocery stores right now.”
Like plenty of restaurants around town, they’ve had to make changes. The dining room is closed and they’ve moved all their operations to pickup and take-out orders.
They have also had to reduce their staffs.
“I was really worried at first. I stayed up a lot and I cried a lot,” she said.
While challenging times, Justine’s focus continues to be on others.
They have been offering $2 breakfast for kids, as well as free take-home meals for their staff who may out of work right now.
They have also opened a mini-market where they are selling items from local companies, such as honey, salsa, pasta, coffee, and chips. All profits sold from that market will go on to the companies who made them.
IF YOU GO:
Jewel's Bakery and Cafe
4041 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
http://jewelsgfcafemenu.com
We're Open, Arizona: We know this is a tough time for a lot of people in our community, including local restaurants and businesses. As local spots continue to serve takeout, look for ways to safely do business, and give back to our community, we want to share their stories. Visit abc15.com/open or email us at OpenInAZ@abc15.com.
