Meet Prince Riley | Owner & Operator

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

Hi Prince, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I wanted to capture the warmth and deep sense of belonging I felt every time I visited my family in the South. Inspired by both my mother and my daughter, this restaurant is my way of honoring my family’s history while also ensuring that its legacy is passed down for generations to come. I believe that an extraordinary dining experience has the power to transform lives, bringing people together and creating memories that last a lifetime. Owning this restaurant is more than just a business—it’s a way to share that feeling of connection, tradition, and hospitality with others.

What should our readers know about your business?
At Joyce, we’re more than just a restaurant—we’re a celebration of history, family, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like you’ve come home.

What sets us apart is our deep-rooted commitment to creating an atmosphere that feels warm, welcoming, and full of life. Inspired by my own experiences visiting family in the South, I wanted Joyce to embody that same sense of belonging—the kind of place where food isn’t just a meal, but a connection to something bigger: culture, tradition, and the people we share it with.

One of the things I’m most proud of is how Joyce has become a space where people come together, whether it’s over a beautifully crafted cocktail, a shared plate, or a special event like Jingle at Joyce. Our holiday pop-up is a perfect example of what makes this restaurant special—every detail is designed to immerse our guests in an experience, not just serve them food and drinks.

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy. Every step has been immensely challenging, and building something meaningful in the restaurant industry requires relentless effort. There have been long nights, difficult decisions, and moments of doubt, but the key has been perseverance and surrounding myself with people who believe in the vision. My wife, my team, and the community we’ve built around Joyce have been instrumental in turning this dream into a reality.

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned, it’s that success isn’t just about hard work—it’s about heart. It’s about showing up every day with a purpose, staying true to what makes your business unique, and never losing sight of why you started in the first place.

At the end of the day, Joyce isn’t just my restaurant. It’s a story—one that honors my past, celebrates the present, and builds a future where people can come together and create memories that last a lifetime.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
II’m originally from Chicago, so I often have friends and family visiting from back east, and I love showing them everything LA has to offer. The beauty of this city is that there’s always something new to explore—whether it’s incredible food, stunning beaches, or vibrant nightlife.

For a week-long trip, I’d start with a beach day in Laguna or Malibu, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean views. Food is always a priority, so we’d hit some of my favorite spots in the city—Cento for incredible pasta, Mirate for modern Mexican cuisine, Alta Adams for soul food, and of course, Courage Bagels for one of the best bagels you’ll ever have.

For culture and sightseeing, The Getty Museum is a must for its art and breathtaking views, and I’d take them to The Last Bookstore, a true LA gem. Shopping and people-watching in Century City Mall is always fun, and no trip would be complete without bar hopping in West Hollywood to experience the city’s nightlife. Santa Monica offers a mix of beach, shopping, and street performers, making it another great stop.

What I love most about LA is that it’s one of the great super-cities of the world—there’s so much to see, do, and experience. The best part is just going with the flow, embracing the energy of the city, and letting the adventure unfold naturally.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shoutout

My wife has been my rock, standing by my side and supporting me every step of the way. This journey has been, without a doubt, the most challenging experience we’ve faced as a couple. Yet, she has endured it all with me, sacrificing so much to help bring my dream to life. There are no words that can fully express my gratitude—I can never truly repay her for everything she has given. Without her, this restaurant wouldn’t exist. She deserves all the credit in the world for making this dream a reality.

Website: https://www.joycela.com

Instagram: @joyce_dtla

Image Credits
Ziv Sade