A taste of Louisiana has arrived at Highline College. Jumpin’ Jambalaya opened January 6, 2025, in Highline’s Union Cafe, Building 8. Rich in Southern flavors, Jumpin Jambalaya offers an exciting and diverse menu that caters to those on a budget.

Owner and chef Youpa Valentine described the cooking as, “unique Cajun and Creole fusion that stands out from typical fast-food options like burgers and fries.” Instead, the “dishes balance savory, spicy, and hearty flavors, with influences from Louisiana’s culinary heritage.”

An example of an authentic dish is the Jambalaya Fusion Bowl, which combines chicken with andouille sausage, shrimp, and rice, all infused with Jumpin’ Jambalaya's signature sauce for a satisfying taste.

Vegetarians are also looked after at Jumpin’ Jambalaya. For instance, the Vegetarian Breakfast Bowl features a medley of sautéed seasonal vegetables served over Southern fried potatoes, topped with scrambled eggs and shredded cheddar cheese. 

While Jumpin Jambalaya is new to Highline, it has been in business for four years and was most recently located in Seattle. Its new location at Highline’s Union Cafe creates a welcome re-opening of the college’s main food service facility, which had been vacant since 2020, due to the COVID shutdown. 

Phon Sivongxay, Program Manager at Highline’s StartZone program told Valentine about the vacancy when they connected over plans for building Valentine’s business. 

Sivongxay said, “We were pleased to work with Valentine and her team to expand her business into the Union Cafe at Highline College. This expansion not only creates jobs in our community but also fulfills her passion for creating and presenting delicious foods.”

StartZone, part of Highline College's Business Development Center, offers support for aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners from marginalized communities in South King County.

Drawing upon the program, Valentine received help with business development initiatives including writing a business plan, creating marketing materials, loan application assistance, and community partnership support. 

Valentine said, “Sivongxay knows exactly what small business owners need and asks all the right questions. Her expertise has been invaluable. StartZone offers a wealth of tools and resources for small businesses, which has been incredibly helpful.”

One of Valentine’s business decisions is to offer a range of catering services, including wedding catering, social event catering, concession catering and corporate catering. 

What: Jumpin’ Jambalaya
Where: Highline College Union Cafe
2400 240th St S, Building 8, Floor 1
Des Moines, WA 98198
When: 7:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.; Monday – Thursday

see what's on the menu at jumpin' jambalaya  learn more about startzone