Today we’d like to introduce you to Lyell Scherline.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In dedication, honor and memory of long-time Allentown attorney, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Jay Scherline, the concept of Jay’s Local aims to provide Muhlenberg College students, faculty and the entire Lehigh Valley community a comfortable and inviting eatery serving high quality local fare at affordable prices. Jay Scherline was a pioneer in the Lehigh Valley with strong values in community support and was constantly striving to make the Valley a better place. Jay’s Local is following in his footsteps in order to showcase these values in the form of a local neighborhood eatery.
With a strong backbone of giving back to the community, The Scherline Family has collaborated with several classes from the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Department at Muhlenberg College in order to better understand what the local community desires from our new space on Liberty and 23rd. Research and results from this collaboration has informed us that both the college community and local residents are eager for an off campus neighborhood locale where patrons can meet, study, relax and enjoy high quality fare at a reasonable price. The concept of Jay’s Local was created based on the feedback received and the wishes of the student and neighborhood community.
Derived as a result from Covid-19, Jay’s Local has expanded its concept in order to support other local small businesses, entrepreneurs, artists, chefs and creators with the addition of pop-up shops, cooking classes, guest chef residencies, kitchen rental programs, workshops, private events, children’s programs and collaborations. Our vision continues to evolve each time a need arises that we feel our space can make the Lehigh Valley a better place. Just like Jay did.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
We opened 5 months prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. It was quite a learning curve, but we learned a lot from it.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Jay’s Local is a family owned and operated neighborhood café and community gathering space in Allentown, Pennsylvania. More than just serving coffee, we’ve created a welcoming place where people can connect over high-quality fresh food and local partnerships. Our focus is on providing an exceptional customer experience while supporting other small businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs in our community.
The Jay in Jay’s Local is in memory of my dad. A warm and welcoming attorney and philanthropist who did so much for others. The cafe is our way of keeping his memory and values alive.
We’re known for our handcrafted beverages, classic breakfast and lunch offerings, and our commitment to showcasing local products whenever possible. We also host small business pop-ups giving local entrepreneurs an opportunity to reach new customers while offering our guests something unique each week.
What sets Jay’s Local apart is our dedication to community. We strive to be a place where everyone feels welcome—whether they’re stopping in for their morning coffee, meeting friends, working remotely, or attending one of our events. We believe a neighborhood café should be more than a place to grab a drink; it should be a place that brings people together.
The brand we’re most proud of is one built on authenticity, quality, and supporting local. Every decision we make is centered around creating meaningful relationships with our customers and investing back into our community. Our goal is for every guest to leave feeling like they were welcomed into a place that genuinely cares about them.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Our commitment to hospitality and community is the foundation of our success. Our whole family is involved in the business so we exhude a true family vibe. We believe people remember how a place makes them feel just as much as what they eat or drink. By consistently focusing on exceptional service, supporting local businesses, and creating a space where everyone feels at home, we’ve built lasting relationships with our customers. That sense of community is what continues to set Jay’s Local apart and drive our success.
Pricing:
- Affordability is very important for us and for our customers
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jayslocal.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayslocal/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jayslocal/
- Twitter: https://x.com/JaysLocal
