August 03rd, 2008

A Family Affair

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Life could be easier for the family of Carmela and Dennis Kral. A little more than a year ago they were living a comfortable life in Connecticut on a corporate paycheck. But when family circumstances brought them west, everything changed.

They took the opportunity to pursue Carmela’s dream — a dream cooked up decades ago in the kitchen of her childhood home. There she learned her trade from her Sicilian-born mother who only knew one way to cook: passionately.

It’s that passion that has driven the Kral family to pursue what Carmela calls “a dream come true.” Carden’s Café, located at the corner of Queen Creek and Gilbert roads in Chandler, Ariz., greets guests warmly with a friendly atmosphere where neighbors, friends and newcomers alike can feel like family.

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Running the business has been a family endeavor. Carmela, Dennis, and children Christina, Lauren and Michael take their turns working at the family business. Dennis’ contribution has been essential. Last July he began work on the beautifully finished interior, working long hours in punishing temperatures before the air conditioning was installed. Carmela continues her mother’s legacy of Italian-inspired baking and cooking, bringing some of the most flavorful desserts, pastries, salads and sandwiches to guests’ plates.

“I adore working with my husband and children,” she said. “It’s a dream come true.”