Our Story
A Mission Rooted in Pure, Honest Food
Since opening our doors in 2016, Nourish Café + Market has remained devoted to one simple idea: that food should help people feel better. From day one, the café has served healthy, sustainably sourced meals, cold pressed juices, superfood smoothies, and health focused desserts—always made from scratch and always free of gluten, soy, corn, refined sugar, preservatives, and inflammatory oils. Every ingredient matters, and every dish is crafted with intention.
This commitment to transparency and quality quickly made us a trusted place in Columbia where guests know they can eat freely, safely, and joyfully.
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Nourish was founded by Kalle LeMone and Chef Kimber Dean, two women brought together by community, wellness, and—unexpectedly—chocolate truffles at a yoga class.
Originally from St. Joseph, Missouri, Kalle came to Columbia to earn her MBA, built a career in pharmaceutical sales, and ultimately felt called to create something more aligned with her passion for health. Kimber, a professionally trained chef from California and author of Happy Food Cookbook, had recently moved to Columbia and was crafting plant‑based, allergen‑friendly recipes that immediately caught Kalle’s attention.
Their shared vision was clear: Create a place where clean eating felt comforting, accessible, and genuinely delicious.
But sourcing ingredients that met their uncompromising standards proved challenging. So they chose a different path: Keep the menu small. Make everything in‑house. Source locally. Use every ingredient fully. Compost everything possible.
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In January 2026, Stephens College acquired Nourish Café + Market, opening an exciting new chapter rooted in real‑world learning, community impact, and student experience. Stephens’ purchase continues the café’s legacy while expanding its reach and purpose.
Under Stephens College ownership, we have maintained our full commitment to a menu free from gluten, soy, corn, refined sugar, preservatives, and inflammatory oils.
Since acquiring, Nourish has provided opportunities for Stephens College students to gain hands-on experience in:
Supply chain and vendor relations
Operations and customer experience
Digital marketing and social media
Branding, design, and storytelling
Business planning, management, and leadership
Stephens College faculty have been able to embed course assignments, capstones and internships directly into Nourish operations. This partnership blends Nourish’s mission with Stephens’ longstanding dedication to experiential education and community engagement. Together, we’re cultivating the next generation of wellness‑minded leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs.
A Legacy of Community + Sustainability
We have always believed that food connects people—to each other, to the land, and to their own well‑being.
Over the years, we have:
Built relationships with local farmers and small businesses, supporting sustainable and organic food systems.
Developed three‑day resets and juice cleanses that help people feel the difference clean food can make.
Supported guests with allergies, autoimmune conditions, chronic health concerns, and specialized diets.
At our core, Nourish remains a place where wellness is celebrated, where ingredients are honored, and where people can trust that every item on the menu is crafted with care.
Our Promise
Whether you visit for a nutrient‑rich bowl, a made‑from‑scratch pastry, a smoothie, or a simple moment of calm, we are here to support your journey toward a healthier, more balanced life.