Today we’d like to introduce you to Daphne Tortoles.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Daphne. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always been in love with baking. I would bake for friends and for family parties. However, it wasn’t until February of 2020 that I decided to invest in the most challenging desserts I have ever made: french macarons!
I started specifically in February because I knew these treats would be such a hit for Valentine’s day. I was extremely successful and decided to start a full-on home bakery while in quarantine because of all the positive feedback that I got. I was inspired by Crumbl cookies and their rotating flavors, so I decided to model my business like theirs. I soon got in touch with more small businesses around San Diego and found some amazing and supportive people. Over the summer, my business thrived as I developed new flavors, new desserts and started on what garnered the most attention: MY CUSTOM MACARONS!
I have been happily fulfilling orders all the while completing my last year as a biology student at SDSU. I am now over 1000 followers and fully booked for October and halfway through November. I have been noticed by several chefs, voice actors, and DREAMWORKS ANIMATION! My passion for baking definitely turned into an art form that has impacted not only me but many people in San Diego. In fact, despite wearing a mask everywhere i go, many people have recognized me just through my name 🙂
Has it been a smooth road?
There were a lot of struggles, the main one being this global pandemic. However, I’ve taken many precautions to ensure my safety and my customer’s safety. Another struggle was finding new flavors that would appeal to my customers; however, I found that they were always willing to try anything that I put out.
I also had some difficulty with the macarons itself. Macarons are known to be the hardest cookies to make. The weather plays a huge role in their outcome; I would spend hours making the batter and then BOOM they would crack in the oven. Lastly, I have had a bit of a rocky road since school started. My final year has been very hectic and busy, at times I would have to cancel or reschedule orders because school is my #1 priority.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Cafe Daph – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I specialize in French macarons, but I have other unique pastries that are inspired by my culture! I am known for my custom macarons and my rotating monthly flavors! I am super proud that my art and passion are enjoyed by every single one of my followers/customers. Their ideas and trust in my abilities have allowed my business to bloom!
I have no culinary background, but I have been able to make some amazing desserts that have caught the attention of a lot of San Diegan residents. I’m still trying to perfect my macarons, but for now, I’m proud of what I have been able to produce.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the support and the diversity. I have lived here for about 18 years, I can’t get over how beautiful everything is. I am also a strong supporter of the military community here, so I appreciate how our city supports them as well. The beaches are amazing, food AMAZING, attractions AMAZING, everything is amazing! The small business community is extremely supportive as well. The thing I like the least is that we are often in the shadows of LA. But in all honesty, SD is where it’s at!
Pricing:
- Base price for custom orders: $25
- Ube Flan cupcakes (4): $13
- Monthly Macs super pack (all flavors, 15 pieces): $30
- Chocolate and Vanilla only (dozen): $22
- All three monthly macs: $24-$26
- Leche Flan: $6-$13
- Bibingka Butter Mochi (9×13 tray): $32
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/cafedaph
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cafedaph/
Image Credit:
Photos from CafeDaph and @tinyhulkaileen on Instagram
Logo by @unknownprodigybrand on Instagram
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