Meet Candice Levy | Owner Coffee Shop – Les Filles Cafe & More

We had the good fortune of connecting with Candice Levy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Candice, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
For me, starting my own business came from a mix of passion, frustration, and a desire for creative freedom. I had a clear vision of what I wanted to bring to the world—something I wasn’t seeing done the way I believed it could be. At the same time, I was working in environments where I felt limited or uninspired. I realized I wanted to build something that reflected my values, my culture, and my ideas of quality and customer experience.

Of course, there were practical considerations too. I spent time evaluating the market, looking at gaps and opportunities, and thinking seriously about whether I was ready to take the risk. But ultimately, I knew that I wouldn’t be satisfied until I gave it a real shot. Starting the business was both a leap of faith and the most grounded decision I could make.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Our work is rooted in a simple idea: bringing the best of Italy and France together in one warm, welcoming space. We’re a coffee shop with two hearts — half Italian, half French — and 100% dedicated to offering an experience that’s both authentic and comforting.

We serve everything from freshly baked baguette sandwiches and warm focaccia to buttery croissants and proper Italian espresso. But more than the food and coffee, it’s the atmosphere we’re proud of — cozy, soulful, and designed to make people slow down, connect, and enjoy the moment.

What sets us apart is how personal this is. This isn’t just a business — it’s a reflection of my roots, my culture, and my love for the everyday rituals of European café life. We’re not trying to be trendy or overly polished. We focus on real, quality ingredients, genuine hospitality, and a feeling that stays with you after you leave.

Getting here definitely wasn’t easy. There were moments of doubt, unexpected challenges, and a steep learning curve, especially in balancing creativity with the reality of running a business. But I kept going by holding onto the ‘why’ — creating something meaningful and real. Every setback was a lesson, every bit of progress was motivation to keep moving.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: stay true to your vision, and don’t be afraid to do things your own way. People respond to authenticity — and that’s what we’re all about.

What I want the world to know is that our café is built with heart. It’s a place where traditions are honored, flavors are celebrated, and every guest is treated like family. We’re proud of what we’ve created — and even more excited for what’s ahead.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There’s no way I’d be where I am today without a handful of incredible people and influences who believed in me, even in moments when I didn’t fully believe in myself. First and foremost, my wife & my son — their encouragement, patience, and emotional support gave me the courage to take that first leap.

I also have to shout out my mother-in-law who offered guidance and honest feedback when I was building the early vision of the business. Their insights helped me stay grounded and focused.

Website: https://les-filles-cafe.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesfillescafe/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lesfillescafe/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/les-filles-cafe-and-more-cathedral-city-2

Image Credits
Paola BALBINI, Candice LEVY, Joseph BALBINI