Bistro opens, Lattin’s asks for help, unique tavern will close, burger biz takes a break
The French bistro Bar C’est L’eau has opened at the Tumwater Craft District, according to the restaurant’s website.
The business fills a vacancy that was created when the Finnriver Farm & Cidery taproom moved out of the space last fall, bistro co-owner Laura Hallet previously told The Olympian.
Hallett is opening the bistro with fellow owner and Chef Joe Rumberger, who operates Bastard Pies at the same location. He will continue to do both, she said.
So what’s on the menu?
Among the choices:
▪ A spiced apple and brown butter crepe.
▪ A Parisian lunch with cured meat, olives, house baguette, whipped butter and sea salt.
▪ Smoked salmon toast with pickled shallot, creme fraiche, dill.
▪ An eight ounce cheeseburger with bibb lettuce, gruyere cheese, tomato and relish.
Bar C’est L’eau is open noon to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. The Tumwater Craft District is at Capitol Boulevard and E Street.
Lattin’s turns to fundraising
Lattin’s Country Cider Mill & Farm is asking for the public’s financial assistance, according to a Go Fund Me campaign that seeks to raise $13,000. As of Thursday, the business had raised $180.00.
“Lattin’s Country Cider Mill & Farm — a cherished, family-owned gem in Olympia, WA for over 50 years — is struggling to stay afloat,” the campaign reads. “And without your help, the smell of cinnamon sugar and cider might disappear for good.”
“Times are tough,” the post reads.
“Rising costs, unpredictable weather, and the lingering effects of the pandemic have put Lattin’s at risk of shutting down. This place that gives so much — now needs us.”
Lattin’s is at 9402 Rich Rd SE in Olympia.
Skep & Skein will close
Skep & Skein Tavern, a local watering hole on the city’s west side that served the honey-based wine known as Mead and invited customers to knit, is closing, the business announced on social media.
“If you haven’t heard the sad news yet, Skep & Skein Tavern will be closing at the end of the month,” the Instagram post reads. “The beer industry just isn’t what it used to be. We’ve been struggling for a while now.”
The community is invited to one last shindig, 4-10 p.m. Saturday, June 28, according to the post.
“Come enjoy one last pint. Potluck Nacho Bar. We provide the tortilla chips, you bring a topping to share. Cheers Oly!”
Curious about the Skep & Skein name? Here’s what the website says:
▪ A “Skep” is traditionally a straw or wicker basket, placed open-end down, used to house bees in the production of honey.
▪ A “Skein” is a measure of yarn, wrapped in a loose twist.
Skep & Skein is at 2106 Harrison Ave NW in Olympia, near Grocery Outlet.
Burger biz takes a break
Herfy’s Burgers in west Olympia hasn’t closed, the owners are just on vacation, according to a social media post.
“We will be closed for vacation from 06/16 - 06/21,” the post reads. “We’ll be back on June 23rd with exciting giveaways!”
Herfy’s is at 315 Cooper Point Rd. NW, Suite 105, in Olympia.
Real estate
A developer seeks to turn Black Lake Quarry’s Grand Mound pit into an industrial park known as the Parson South Sound Logistics Warehouse Project at 6802 SW 196th Ave. in Rochester, according to a notice of application announced by Thurston County.
The project, according to county information, includes the construction of up to four light industrial buildings totaling 1.4 million square feet, a parking lot, stormwater facilities and utility connections.
“The parcels total approximately 77.5 acres and are zoned light industrial in the Grand Mound urban growth area,” the county information reads.
To comment on this proposal, use the online comment form by no later than 4 p.m. July 7.
If you know of a retailer, restaurant, coffee shop or other business that is opening, closing, expanding, remodeling, or changing its focus, send an email to reporter Rolf Boone at rboone@theolympian.com.
This story was originally published June 20, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
