The Story of Yonder Miller and Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee

Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Yonder Miller was immersed in the world of entrepreneurship from a young age. She was fortunate to have both parents and grandparents who were successful business owners, managing everything from daycares to nightclubs, cemeteries, and beyond. Yonder watched them navigate the challenges of business and life, learning firsthand the value of hard work, dedication, integrity, and ingenuity.

In 2016, Yonder took her first steps into entrepreneurship by selling delectable desserts from her home. The response was overwhelming, and demand for her treats grew rapidly. By 2017, with the unwavering support of her mother, Way Down Yonder: New Orleans Finest Restaurant opened its doors in Columbus, OH, at the Columbus Food Hub on Oak Street. Yonder’s signature desserts traveled with the business, and soon Columbus residents were falling in love with the offerings.

As time went on, it became clear that one item stood out above the rest: Yonder's specialty beignets. With the pandemic in full swing, Yonder had time to reflect on her journey and future goals, leading her to a bold new vision for her business. Inspired by the success of her beignets and the growing popularity of New Orleans cuisine, Yonder decided to expand the Way Down Yonder brand with a new concept—Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee.

It was always Yonder’s dream to share the rich culture and flavors of New Orleans with as many people as possible. The idea of combining her beloved beignets with a café atmosphere felt like the perfect next step. New Orleans is a city known for its southern hospitality, French-inspired cuisine, and vibrant jazz culture—elements Yonder is thrilled to bring to the people of Columbus.

A Commitment to Training and Job Creation

At the heart of Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee is a commitment to providing meaningful employment and creating opportunities for growth. Yonder believes in the power of entrepreneurship to transform communities and is passionate about helping her team build their skills, confidence, and careers. Through specialized training and mentorship, Way Down Yonder is not just a place to work—it’s a place where employees are given the tools to succeed and build lasting careers.

Yonder’s vision extends beyond the café walls. By providing quality jobs, investing in local talent, and promoting financial literacy, she aims to help create a path to generational wealth for her team. By sharing knowledge and offering career development opportunities, Yonder hopes to inspire others to take charge of their futures and break cycles of financial instability.

What is a Beignet?

Beignets are square-shaped pastries, soft and fluffy with a sweet center, dusted with powdered sugar (and other delightful toppings). They are a signature treat of New Orleans, perfectly paired with our Way Down Yonder Coffee, which has tasting notes of brown sugar, hazelnut, and plum. Beignets are always cooked to order, fresh and hot, ensuring the most indulgent experience with every bite.

At Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee, guests can expect an upscale, French-style café atmosphere—cozy, friendly, and welcoming. The café offers both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as drive-thru service for added convenience. Whether you're here to enjoy great food, great coffee, or just soak in the vibes, Yonder invites you to experience a place filled with love, culture, and the warmth of New Orleans.