Knotty Bodies vows to stick around | Owner says closure is temporary

Published 10:36 am Tuesday, December 8, 2009

The controversial Knotty Bodies espresso stand near Crossroads Park appears closed, but its owner plans to resume business as usual in the same spot.

Mike Rockey told The Reporter on Monday that he expects to talk by week’s end with the property owners about keeping his business intact, with the same risque theme it had before.

Knotty Bodies features female baristas working in bikinis and lingerie.

The city forced the business to close its unauthorized drive-through operation on Nov. 24, following an outcry from local residents concerned about the booth’s proximity to a park frequented by children.

Scantily-clad baristas continued serving coffee to walk-up customers for several days after the drive-through closed.

The workers donned jeans and long-sleeve shirts last Thursday. By Friday, there was no one working the stand, and the Knotty Bodies sign was gone.

“I’ve voluntarily closed down until the owner gets back,” Rockey said. “We’re all meeting later this week to sort things out.”

Rockey said he plans to meet with the owner of the Chevron gas-station that hosted his business in its parking lot, as well as Chevron officials, by Friday.

The owner of the Chevron station, Amit Kausik, is reportedly spending time in India, and could not be reached for comment.

Rockey said he does not plan to change the risque Knotty Bodies theme for any reason.

“I would never change a company for anybody,” Rockey said. “That’s like asking Playboy to cover up. That’s not what they do.”