There has been much interest in Denica's. Who are we? Where have we been? Where are we going? You may know us, you may have eaten at our restaurant, or had our famous cookies brought to you by an eager sales rep or loving relative...

So here is a little bit of information for those of you who might have an interest.

I am Denica, the namesake of the business. I have dreamed of owning a bakery my whole life. I thought I would never see the dream realized, I thought I would end up in a more academic field, that the passion I had for baking would remain a dream, a hobby. Nevertheless, I pursued my dream. I went to the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco and completed their pastry program. I then went on to a pastry apprenticeship with Chef Peter Teimorabadi, veteran of the Ritz Carlton. Once achieving the title of professional pastry chef, I built a small special order cake business, specializing in elaborate, gourmet wedding and special occasion cakes.

Then I met and fell in love with the James, the visionary, the drive and the love of my life. James was the cookie man, dangerous and daring. He owned and operated a wildly successful cookie and coffee store, Cookie Express, in Castro Valley for 12 years. He featured the same famous cookies we make now, but shipped them nationwide as well as selling them fresh in his storefront bakery. He is a self taught chef, and dreamed of owning his own restaurant. James had gained invaluable experience along the way, working at many fine restaurants in Lake Tahoe and in Maui. He brought with him the experience necessary to build a restaurant from the ground up (no easy feat).

In 2000, we decided to join our efforts, and realize our dreams together. With the support of our families, we opened the original Denica's Pastry Café. The business grew, and opportunity knocked in 2005 when our next door neighbor wanted out of their lease. We took over the building and added Denica's Taco Lounge, at the same time extending our hours and added dinner to our repertoire.

In keeping with our need to grow, in November of 2006 we added breakfast. Our menu is in keeping with our philosophy-great food, great quality.

Together, we have 5 wonderful children, ages 5-19, and between them and the business, we are a very busy family.

I like to think we are an inspiration to people to dream, to do, and to not be afraid.