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BITE US: SIZIZIS Shuts Down

Olympia’s 24-hour coffee house loses lease

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A little over two years ago, a unique coffee shop became part of downtown Olympia. The business was small, constructed from ship remnants, with an ambiance that only vintage wood and antique accessories can bring. Specializing in ancient herbal teas and Stumptown coffee drinks, the joint was open 24 hours a day - perfect for night owls, students and anyone looking for a pick-me-up latte or a healing tea.

One year in, long-time locals Elizabeth and Marc Turnbow bought the business - keeping most things the same, but also bringing a few touches of their own.

"They responded to what Olympia wanted," says employee Sarah Miller.

A cooler with quick eats was added, lighting was changed, the art was rotated. They experimented with new recipes and offered free Wi-Fi.

The place was picking up business and, being open 24 hours, filled a niche in the community.

"The staff, the atmosphere, it's all wonderful - basically it's been my living room for two years," says SIZIZIS regular Dana Walker. "Plus, I wake up early, and it's the only place open at 5 a.m. for coffee," he says.

Given the business's success and community support, the Turnbows say it came as a shock when at the end of June they received a letter from the building's owner saying their one-year lease was not going to be renewed.

"It was unexpected," says Elizabeth. "Everything seemed to be going good."

"What we're mourning the most is the community we had," says Marc.

"It's sad," says Miller. "Working here was the best."

The last night of business was Sunday, July 17. There was an overwhelming response from clientele.

"It was mostly a celebration," says Walker. "At the end of night, the Turnbows got behind the counter and everyone took pictures, there was a big crowd."

"The place was packed, and we ran out of everything," says Miller.

While the conflict between owners and landlord is difficult, and the fate of SIZIZIS remains unclear, the Turnbows stay optimistic.

"We'd like to open a new shop by next spring," says Elizabeth, noting the name is likely to change with any future endeavors, but not the 24-hour availability and cultivated atmosphere. "Every product we got was high quality. What we wanted to bring to people was a gift. We tried to bring nice things."

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