In the vibrant pulse of New York City, Julia Tokarz and Gregory Lay, two passionate actors and filmmakers, first crossed paths. Their lives were a whirlwind of auditions and artistic ambitions, but a shared dream of a quieter life and a backyard for their beloved dogs led them to make a bold move to Los Angeles. Little did they know, this move would be the start of a remarkable new chapter.

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As they settled into LA, Greg took on the role of head baker at a popular bagel shop, while Julia did gig work. Just as they were finding their rhythm, the world was rocked by the Covid pandemic. With everything shutting down and the future uncertain, they found themselves grappling with an unexpected challenge.

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As the world around them slowed to a crawl, Julia and Greg saw an opportunity to create something special. In a time when sourdough starters and home yoga sessions were all the rage, Julia made a decision that would change their lives. With her last paycheck, she bought a mixer from Craigslist.

 

Greg, who had been perfecting fresh cream cheese for the bagel shop, and Julia, with her mom's cherished Christmas cheesecake recipe began experimenting in their kitchen. They combined Greg’s creamy creation with Julia’s family recipe, crafting a cheesecake that was both rich and unique.

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From humble beginnings in their kitchen, East Side Cheesecakes was born. What started as a heartfelt project during a challenging time soon grew into a beloved business, celebrated for its delicious, handcrafted cheesecakes. Today, East Side Cheesecakes stands as a testament to Julia and Greg’s journey, their resilience, and their love for creating something extraordinary from life's unexpected turns. Each cheesecake they make is a reflection of their story—a slice of their adventure, and a reminder that even in the face of adversity you can still bring some joy to the table.