To open a business takes resilience, dedication, and a hunger for success. At just 20 years old, Eriyona embodies these qualities as the confident owner and operator of Garden Grounds, a new organic coffee food truck in Gulf Breeze, Florida. Unlike traditional cafes, Eriyona’s vision focuses on sustainable, organic products, creating a unique space that nourishes both body and community.
A Lifelong Love for Coffee and Connection
Eriyona’s journey in the coffee world began at the age of 14, working in local coffee shops. She was drawn to the warm, inviting atmosphere of cafes, where people naturally connect and share stories. “People come in and are always so conversational,” Eriyona notes, reflecting on her love for the sense of community cafes foster. This passion for connection became the heartbeat of her dream to create a space where people could gather, build relationships, and feel at home.
A Foundation in Faith and Community
A devoted Christian, Eriyona’s faith shapes every aspect of her life and business. After high school, she joined
Youth With A Mission, completing her training in Kona, Hawaii, and serving in New Zealand on outreach. Upon returning to Pensacola, which has always felt like home, she interned at Voyage Church, where she forged deep friendships. These experiences strengthened her vision for Garden Grounds as more than just a coffee shop—it’s a place to host Bible studies, women’s groups, and community events, fostering connection and spiritual growth.
A Commitment to Organic Living
Eriyona’s commitment to organic, sustainable living was inspired by her mother and grew stronger after the COVID-19 pandemic, when public interest in food transparency surged. “Everything I would want to put in my body, I want to provide to others,” Eriyona says. This philosophy drives Garden Grounds, where every item on the menu is organic. From grass-fed beef sourced from New Zealand to their blue spirulina from Hawaii—where Eriyona lived during her mission work—each ingredient reflects her belief that natural, earth-grown foods can nourish and heal as intended.
Overcoming Challenges to Build Her Dream
In January 2025, Eriyona took a leap of faith and began the process of opening
Garden Grounds. Navigating permits and licensing was no small feat, but her focus never wavered. Opting for a food truck over a brick-and-mortar location, she purchased a lot at 2577 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, the perfect spot to park her trailer and bring her vision to life. On September 22, 2025, Garden Grounds opened its window to an outpouring of support from the Gulf Breeze community, affirming Eriyona’s dream and setting the stage for endless opportunities to host guests and events.
A Bright Future Rooted in Faith
While Eriyona dreams of one day expanding into a brick-and-mortar cafe, she is overjoyed with the success of Garden Grounds and trusts in God’s guidance for the future. For now, her food truck is a thriving hub of connection, serving organic coffee, food, and community spirit Monday through Saturday from 7 AM to 2 PM…