Meet Jennifer Blumenfield, co-owner of Ohana Food Co. Ohana means family—and this Flagler Beach eatery is a family affair. Jennifer shares the restaurant, which is centered on healthy, delicious eats, with her partner and husband of 16 years, Jimmy Blumenfield. Her 17-year-old son, Skye, also works at Ohana. We chatted with Jennifer on her passion for healthy eating, what she loves about owning a business in Flagler Beach, and more.
Q: Why did you decide to open Ohana? And why in Flagler Beach?
The idea of opening a healthy food restaurant was dreamed up through our own food journey and our struggles trying to find cleaner food with less allergens. The idea of opening a fresh fast restaurant that offers the cleanest and healthiest food for breakfast and lunch was dreamed up during many conversations of struggles from my clients at our fitness studio, which is in the same exact location. We felt in our hearts that Flagler Beach was missing healthier food options for our local workforce more than a fitness studio.
Q: Why the focus on health-conscious eats?
There is a saying “Eat like your life depends on it”. We whole heartily believe in this! You are either fighting disease or feeding disease with every bite you take!
Q: Do you have a background in nutrition?
I took a year-long nutrition class at Institute for Integrative Nutrition. We have also done a lot of research on our own.
Q: What are the benefits of a juice cleanse?
There are many benefits to a juice cleanse whether you do a 1,2- or 3-day cleanse. Some benefits include: weight loss, detox, immune boost, floods system with vitamins and minerals, reset for all bodily systems, gives digestive system a break…i
Q: Any tips for maintaining a healthy diet in 2023?
Eat whole food ingredients such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, a good source of protein and avoid processed foods! Also drink lots of clean water to stay hydrated!
Q: What’s your personal favorite item on the menu and why?
It is impossible to pick one item because we are talking about food for fuel! With that being said, here are some of our most popular items: Loaded Guac-kale-Mole toast, Unky Bunky Chunky Monkey Frozen Smoothie Bowl, Southside Bowl/Wrap.
Q: What’s your favorite thing about owning a business in Flagler Beach?
Jimmy loves owning a business in the town where he grew up. We love feeding all of our friends, neighbors and surrounding communities! And of course, love the visitors that come to Flagler Beach! We have met so many amazing people!
Q: Describe the relationships you’ve built with customers.
We have built relationships with many of our customers! So many people open up to us about their own health journeys and how they have used food as medicine to heal.
