Bellevue's Knotty Bodies espresso stand covers up—for now

The controversial Knotty Bodies espresso stand near Crossroads Park has toned down its risque image, reportedly because of pressure from the property owner.

The normally bikini- and lingerie-clad baristas were wearing jeans and tank tops or long-sleeve shirts Thursday as they worked a slow night.

A sign on the business previously depicting the backside of a topless woman along with the words "Knotty Bodies Espresso" was covered with red tape to read "Not Espresso," with no female image.

"This is very temporary," said a barista who goes by the name Kat. "We'll be back to doing sexy coffee."

Maybe not, according to the city.

"They're working with the property owner or Chevron to adjust their business," said Bellevue development services director Mike Brennan. "We understand they're contemplating relocating."

Knotty Bodies is located on leased space in the parking lot of the Chevron station at NE Eighth St. and 164th Ave. NE.

Residents are concerned about the proximity of the business to Crossroads Park, which is frequented by children.

The espresso stand opened Nov. 21 as a drive through, but the city closed down that aspect of the operation four days later because the drive through was unauthorized.

Since then, Knotty Bodies has only been allowed to serve walk-up customers.

Bellevue City Council members expressed mostly disdain for the operation at their Nov. 23 meeting, during which residents packed the room in a show of opposition to the business.

"We still have more supporters than opponents," Kat said.

Asked if business has been slower since she and her co-workers started donning more clothes, Kat said: "People drive by and see us in our clothes. They don't know what the hype's about."

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