When entrepreneurs Ebony Holly and Leo Sanfie thought about business concepts for downtown Baton Rouge, they knew they wanted to bring something fresh and uplifting. Earlier this year, the couple opened DemiNola Blends, a smoothie and juice bar specializing in nutrient-dense creations with unique flavor profiles inspired by New Orleans.

“It started as a personal passion for health and wellness that grew into something bigger,” Holly says. “While we always had entrepreneurial spirits, the idea of creating a smoothie and juice bar really blossomed in recent years as we saw the demand for healthier options and the opportunity to build a community-driven space.”

The smoothie and juice shop, named after their daughter, has quickly garnered support from the downtown Baton Rouge community.

“The outpouring of support has been amazing,” Holly says. “From downtown professionals to families and students, so many people have embraced us from day one. Another surprise has been just how quickly DemiNola Blends has become a go-to wellness stop in the community—it’s humbling and motivating at the same time.”

With smoothies, smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices and iced coffee available in locally inspired flavors, each recipe balances taste, health and creativity. Flavors like Berries of Tchoupitoulas, Carmen de Leche and Bourbon Skin Glaze are a nod to the Crescent City, featuring nutritious ingredients like sea moss gel and spirulina with hints of southern delicacies like butter pecan syrup.

“Seeing the community’s excitement has been the most rewarding,” Holly says. “Watching customers discover their new favorite smoothie or bringing their friends back to share the experience reminds us why we started. Building a space where people feel good about what they’re putting into their bodies has been incredibly fulfilling.”

Learn more about DemiNola Blends and stay up-to-date on new flavors by following @DemiNolaBlends.