Exciting times are ahead for coffee enthusiasts in Jefferson Parish as a popular coffee trailer, operated by a mixed martial artist and his family, prepares to open its first brick-and-mortar location. Rougabrew has built a loyal following since its inception and is eager to expand its reach with this new venture.
Rougabrew, named after the Cajun cryptid “Rougarou,” is set to debut its first storefront at 1645 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, in the previous space of Ash & Ollie’s Snowballs & Soft Serve, located behind Bar 504. The new location is starting to take shape, featuring a unique mural by Kenner tattoo artist Rich Sutton, showcasing cattails and mossy cypress trees painted in white, along with the letters “Rb” against a stark black brick background.
Since launching the coffee popup 15 months ago, Lafitte-based couple Vinh and Courtney Le have garnered a loyal customer base and attracted more than 13,000 followers on social media. This platform allows coffee lovers to track their trailer’s daily locations.
“It’s been wonderful to witness our rapid growth,” Vinh shared. “The local community is so supportive, and seeing the joy on our customers’ faces as they get their coffee is incredibly rewarding.” The menu focuses on simplicity, avoiding espresso and instead offering cold brew, drip coffee, and matcha. In keeping with the swamp theme, their iced drink specials are perfect for the Louisiana heat; highlights include the “cookie couyon” featuring cookie butter cold foam and the “Dubayou,” a combination of pistachio and mocha.
Vinh and Courtney entered the coffee business as a side project from Vinh’s primary role at LeBros MMA, a mixed martial arts gym he runs in Metairie with his brother. “We spend so much on coffee elsewhere, so I thought others might appreciate what we have to offer,” Vinh explained.
Originally from Saint Rose, Vinh is a former national competitor in Tae Kwon Do, while his brother Than Le, who oversees “Rougabrew 2,” is a former featherweight champion for ONE, the world’s premier martial arts organization. Vinh’s mother also contributes by taking customer orders while Vinh and Courtney prepare the drinks.
After launching Rougabrew in January 2025—with some trial and error involved in renovating horse trailers—the couple initially set up at various Jefferson Parish locations to serve their homemade cold brews and flavored, made-to-order cold foam.
While their daily shifts may be only four or five hours long, Vinh emphasizes that the work is around the clock. They typically begin their day at 5 a.m., preparing their cold brew and loading up the trailers. They run the stand until they sell out, typically around 1 or 2 p.m., then return home to prepare their coffee concentrate for the next day.
In conjunction with their trailer, Courtney actively manages the business’s social media accounts, which often generate tens of thousands of views for each video they post.
The couple appreciates their customers’ willingness to follow them across Lafitte, Metairie, Marrero, and Kenner for their favorite beverages, with occasional appearances in Destrehan and New Orleans. While some West Bank customers expressed disappointment that Rougabrew’s initial store would open in Metairie, the Les assured them of plans for further expansion, including aspirations for a shop in Lafitte near the high school, which is currently under construction.
“I always maintain a positive outlook and believe I can achieve anything I set my mind to, and this journey has exceeded my expectations,” Vinh reflected. “We are not afraid of hard work.”
Key Takeaways
- Rougabrew is opening its first brick-and-mortar location in Metairie.
- The coffee trailer has gained over 13,000 followers on social media.
- Specializes in cold brew, drip coffee, and matcha, focusing on iced drinks.
- The Le family is heavily involved in the business, with support from Vinh’s mother.
- Plans are in place for further expansion, including a potential shop in Lafitte.
FAQ
What types of drinks does Rougabrew offer?
Rougabrew focuses on cold brew, drip coffee, matcha, and various iced drink specials.
Where will the new store be located?
The new location is at 1645 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, behind Bar 504 in Metairie.
When did Rougabrew first open its trailer?
Rougabrew started operating as a coffee popup in January 2025.
Is there a plan for more locations in the future?
Yes, the owners have indicated plans to open additional locations, particularly in Lafitte.
Rougabrew’s journey reflects the passion and dedication of its owners, paving the way for an exciting new chapter in their coffee venture.
