Blendz Coffee in Lacey, Washington, is far more than just a typical drive-thru espresso stand; it’s a local institution that sits at the center of a long-running, curious community debate. As of late 2025, this establishment continues to draw attention not only for its expertly crafted beverages and friendly, personalized customer service but also for the controversial attire of its baristas, placing it directly in the crosshairs of a proposed local public nudity ordinance.
Operating from its high-visibility location at 5770 Pacific Ave SE, Blendz Coffee offers a unique blend of quality caffeine and an unfiltered experience that has made it a regional landmark in the greater Thurston County area. The business, owned by John Ferguson, has navigated both local legal challenges and a past high-profile armed robbery, proving its resilience and deep roots within the Lacey community.
Blendz Coffee Lacey WA: Location, Hours, and Owner Profile
Blendz Coffee is a quintessential example of the Pacific Northwest’s drive-thru coffee culture, but with a notable twist. The stand is easily accessible and a daily stop for many commuters and locals seeking a quick, strong caffeine fix.
- Official Business Name: Blendz Coffee
- Primary Address: 5770 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey, WA 98503
- City/County: Lacey, Thurston County, Washington
- Typical Operating Hours: Generally open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Hours may vary seasonally or on holidays, so always check before visiting).
- Owner: John Ferguson
- Years in Business: Owner John Ferguson has been a fixture in the local business scene, having owned the establishment for approximately a decade, making it a long-standing Lacey business.
The business model, often referred to as a "bikini barista" stand, is a regional phenomenon in Washington State. These stands differentiate themselves by offering a flirtatious, high-energy service environment where baristas wear minimal clothing, such as bikinis, lingerie, or other provocative attire. Blendz Coffee is one of a handful of such businesses in Lacey, alongside others like Pink Sugar Espresso and Pacific NW Baristas, which has led to significant civic discussion.
The Signature Blendz Coffee Menu: Beyond the Controversy
While the attire of the staff often grabs headlines, the core of Blendz Coffee’s success lies in the quality and variety of its menu. The baristas are highly skilled in crafting complex, customizable espresso-based beverages, ensuring customers return for the taste as much as the experience.
The Must-Try Signature Drinks and Customizations
The menu at Blendz Coffee is extensive, catering to every palate, from the classic espresso purist to those seeking a sweet, high-octane treat. They are known for their creativity and willingness to customize drinks to perfection.
- The White Chocolate Vanilla Mocha: A fan favorite, this drink is consistently praised in reviews for its perfect balance of rich espresso, creamy white chocolate, and a hint of vanilla.
- Seasonal Specialties: Blendz frequently introduces unique, rotating seasonal drinks. One notable example is the Chocolate Caramel Pumpkin Coffee, a rich, autumnal blend that captures the spirit of the Pacific Northwest fall.
- Shaken Espresso Drinks: For those who prefer a bold, coffee-forward experience, their shaken espresso options are a popular choice. These drinks offer a unique, refreshing texture similar to an iced latte but with a more intense flavor profile, and they are fully customizable with natural syrups and flavor shots.
- Dairy-Free and Alternative Options: Recognizing modern dietary trends, the stand offers various milk alternatives, ensuring that customers with specific needs can still enjoy their favorite lattes and cappuccinos.
- Energy Boosters: Beyond coffee, the menu includes a range of non-coffee options, including energy drinks, smoothies, and iced teas, all prepared with the same personalized attention.
The emphasis on high-quality ingredients and the ability to perfectly execute complex orders is a major factor in the stand's longevity. The loyal customer base appreciates the friendly, genuine interactions with the baristas, which often turn a simple coffee run into a memorable moment.
The Lacey Public Nudity Ordinance: A Local Controversy
The most compelling and newsworthy aspect of Blendz Coffee is its role in the ongoing public debate over regulating the attire of bikini baristas in Lacey. The city of Lacey, like many municipalities in Washington State, has grappled with how to address the presence of these businesses.
The Core of the Controversy
The debate centers on a proposed public nudity ordinance that, if passed, would significantly restrict the clothing, or lack thereof, worn by employees at certain businesses. The ordinance is explicitly designed to rein in the attire at establishments like Blendz Coffee, Pink Sugar Espresso, and Pacific NW Baristas.
Proponents of the ordinance argue that the minimal attire is a form of public indecency, creates a negative image for the city, and can lead to safety concerns. They often point to the high-profile nature of the stands, which are typically located along busy thoroughfares.
Owner John Ferguson’s Stance
Owner John Ferguson has been an active voice in the discussion, defending his business model and the rights of his employees. He has stated that the proposed ordinance is specifically aimed at regulating bikini barista stands, arguing against the measure on the grounds of business freedom and the consensual nature of the interaction between his baristas and the customers.
The controversy highlights a cultural clash between traditional community standards and the libertarian business environment of the Pacific Northwest, where these stands have operated for decades. The outcome of the Lacey public nudity ordinance will have a direct and lasting impact on the future of Blendz Coffee and similar businesses in the area.
Community Resilience and Past Challenges
Blendz Coffee’s history is not without its challenges, further solidifying its status as a resilient local business. The stand has faced and overcome significant adversity, demonstrating the commitment of its owner and staff.
The 2021 Armed Robbery Incident
In a serious incident that gained significant media attention, Blendz Coffee was the target of an armed robbery in January 2021. This event, which occurred in broad daylight, terrified the barista on duty and brought the issue of safety at these drive-thru stands to the forefront. The Lacey Police Department and local Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound worked to identify and apprehend the suspects, underscoring the community's support for the business despite the controversies surrounding its dress code.
Such incidents serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by service industry workers and often fuel the arguments of those seeking greater regulation or increased police patrols in the area of these establishments.
The Customer Experience and Topical Authority
Despite the legal and social debates, the customer experience at Blendz Coffee remains highly positive, according to numerous online reviews. Patrons consistently praise the:
- Speed and Efficiency: As a drive-thru, the service is quick, making it ideal for the morning rush.
- Personalized Service: The baristas are known for remembering regulars’ orders and offering a genuine, friendly interaction.
- Consistent Quality: Customers appreciate that their drinks are made perfectly every time, from a simple espresso shot to a complex iced cream beverage.
Whether you're curious about the controversy, seeking a bold White Chocolate Vanilla Mocha, or simply looking for a quick, efficient coffee stop in Thurston County, Blendz Coffee at 5770 Pacific Ave SE continues to be a vibrant, unforgettable, and highly debated part of the Lacey, WA landscape.
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