BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) -- A Denham Springs restaurant is at the center of a community debate over business rights and religious freedom after councilmembers voted not to renew its alcohol license.

The city council denied an alcohol permit renewal for the Mustard Seed Creamery in a 3-2 vote on July 28. Restaurant owners said the city had issued an alcohol permit after opening in July 2024.

The Mustard Seed Creamery on N. Range Avenue is an ice cream shop that serves southern tapas. Alcohol, specifically beer and wine, has previously been offered on the menu. According to the owners, the restaurant space is also used as a place of worship for one and a half hours on Sunday mornings. Business hours are from 3-8 p.m. on the same day.

Controversy sparks from city ordinance

A deb

See Full Page