The summer wind blows a little colder now, as the days grow shorter by just a few moments each evening. It’s September, but the Build-Outs of Coffee feature series rolls on. This time we’re visiting a new coffee bar in Olympia, Washington—a city with an epic music and cultural history, that’s also home to a plucky and convivial specialty coffee scene. (And also some of the best pizza on the American West Coast.) This new cafe is called Papaver, and they’re doing something unique inspired in part by Ukrainian culture. Let’s learn more!
The 2025 Build-Outs of Coffee is sponsored by Pacific Barista Series, La Marzocco, Ceado, and Dona.
As told to Sprudge by David Sherepitka.
For those who aren’t familiar, will you tell us about your company?
We are Papaver Roaster House based in Olympia, WA. A small passionate team with Ukrainian roots. Our story begins with a deep love for quality brews, inspired by our travels around the globe. As noted by our guests, stepping into our cafe brings them back to their travels to Europe.
Can you tell us a bit about the new space?
Our new cafe is meticulously designed from lighting to furniture to create a cohesive and visually appealing space. We offer various a range of seating options like plush arm chairs, stylish tables or a beautiful solid wood communal table, encouraging people to relax and stay a while.
What’s your approach to coffee?
We source through direct trade with farmers around the globe and small importers in the US. The coffee we select is graded 86pts or higher. Here is how our roaster Ilya describes his process of roasting: “I strive to preserve the natural character of the beans to show their terroir and processing and not ‘cover’ them with a dark roast. My task is to reveal and preserve the subtle, sometimes very fragile nuances of taste. It is more like the work of a sommelier than a production.”
Any machines, coffees, special equipment lined up?
Cafe equipment:
La Marzocco Strada S two-group
La Marzocco Swans
Malkönig EK43
Roastery equipment:
Loring S15 Falcon
La Marzocco GS3
Mahklönig x54 and EK43
Difluid Omix
Difluid Omni
Classic Destoner
How is your project considering sustainability?
Our commitment to coffee excellence goes hand in hand with our dedication to sustainability. And that’s why we are focused on ethical sourcing and supporting eco friendly practices like using compostable coffee bags, agave straws and minimizing all waste at the cafe.
What’s your hopeful target opening date/month?
We are currently on a soft open and a grand opening event is scheduled for 8/30/25
Thank you!
The 2025 Build-Outs of Coffee is sponsored by Pacific Barista Series, La Marzocco, Ceado, and Dona.
