Today we’d like to introduce you to Nina Rodriguez and Leonor Ramirez Rodriguez.
Hi Nina and Leonor, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Leonor, a classically trained pianist from Juilliard, found herself in a career crossroads after shifting into real estate. In 2014, she connected with a local coffee roaster, who began teaching her the craft of coffee roasting.
Her transformative moment came when she agreed to serve espresso at a medical conference. As she frantically managed a jammed grinder and a growing line, she had an epiphany: this blend of challenge, creativity, and service was something she genuinely loved—a realization that launched her into the coffee business
She further deepened her expertise by training through the Specialty Coffee Association in Oklahoma and studying in Mexico City and onto Florence Italy under Gianni Cocco in Italy, which helped her elevate both skill and vision
Teaming Up with Nina Rodriguez
Nina Rodriguez—a Grammy‑winning percussionist and rhythmic facilitator—joined Leonor to co‑found Barista Kats. Although Leonor initiated the venture, she invited Nina to join the adventure: “When she says she wants to do something, I believe in her vision,” Nina shared
Nina brought her performance discipline and business development skills to the table, bringing structure and strategic growth to their new venture
Founded by two professional musicians—Leonor Ramirez and Nina Rodriguez—the mobile espresso bar concept officially took shape around 2015–2016, blending performance artistry with coffee craftsmanship
We launched Barista Kats in San Antonio, which has since expanded from a single mobile cart into a vibrant enterprise with multiple bars, a presence in Texas, and Pittsburgh, PA and a reputation for high‑end, brand‑driven coffee experiences
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Barista Kats has been one wild ride—full of wins, a few plot twists, and plenty of hustle.
When the pandemic hit, our calendar went from packed to empty overnight. No events, no crowds, no face-to-face magic. We could’ve thrown in the towel, but instead we flipped the script—delivering fresh bags of coffee and teaming up with local bakeries for pastry pairings. It wasn’t the same vibe, but it kept our name (and caffeine) flowing.
Then came the joy of paperwork… and by joy, I mean the endless wait for our small/minority-owned business certification renewals. Without that stamp, we were stuck on the sidelines for certain contracts we knew we could crush. Red tape? Yeah, we’ve wrestled with it.
And let’s talk about venues. Some major local spots have let us in for a few events, but we know our mobile espresso bars could totally elevate the experience on the regular. We’re not push-button coffee—we’re high-energy, top-notch, make-you-smile coffee. Sometimes it just takes a little extra convincing to get folks to see that.
Through it all, we’ve learned to pivot fast, keep the grind strong, and never forget why we started. Every latte, every pour, every smile—it’s all part of the story we’re still writing….Our mission – Give the people what they want by creating the most uplifting and engaging experience!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Leonor Ramirez
Leonor’s story is anything but ordinary. At just 13, she earned a scholarship to The Juilliard School and went on to earn her Master’s in Classical Performance—touring stages and captivating audiences with her precision, artistry, and heart.
But her passion doesn’t stop at music. In 2020, she founded Operation Lola, a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and re-homing abused pigs and farm animals. To fuel the mission, she launched a retail coffee line that donates a percentage of every sale to the cause—built around the motto: Buy a Bag, Save a Pig.
Whether it’s commanding a grand piano or leading a movement, Leonor blends discipline, creativity, and compassion into everything she does.high-end coffee experience that hits all the right notes.
Nina Rodriguez
Grammy-winning percussionist, bandleader, and total powerhouse, Nina has toured the world, shared stages with music’s best, and built a reputation for electrifying performances. Now she brings that same rhythm, energy, and leadership to Barista Kats. As co-founder, she’s all about making sure every cup we serve is as unforgettable as a front-row concert—smooth, bold, and full of vibe.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Leonor and I both grew up with music running through our veins, surrounded by open spaces, farm animals, and the kind of love that only comes from supportive parents and close-knit siblings. That mix of rhythm, nature, and encouragement gave us the freedom to dream big and the courage to chase it—shaping the artists and visionaries we are today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Baristakats.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baristakats/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaristaKatsUSA/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/baristakats/
