Zeitgeist needs your support

In 1997, Bryan Yeck started Zeitgeist Coffee. He wanted to create a space for art and conversation. He nailed it. Now, after more than 25 years of creating a community-based coffee house in Seattle’s Pioneer Square, he’s decided it’s time to retire. When he asked me if I wanted to buy the place, I thought he was joking. But – he was serious. He knows that I’m committed to this business. After being shut down completely for 6 months during Covid, I volunteered to help reopen Zeitgeist because my heart is here. It has been a rough two years but I feel things are slowly returning to what we thought of as normal.

If I was asked to describe what Zeitgeist Coffee means to me, my first response would be a deep sense of community, an anchor in one of the oldest neighborhoods in Seattle. In 2001 I joined Zeitgeist as a barista and eventually became the manager. While working here I also attended and graduated from Seattle University. My major was Communications with a focus on human interaction. I am grateful to be able to use this degree every day. The easy banter of a coffee shop can lead to so much more. The relationships that have come out of my contact with people at the shop are numerous. Sometimes it is a quick hello/goodbye/have a nice day and sometimes it is an old regular coming in with a heavy heart in need of a hug. I have been working at this coffee shop for over 20 years and have had the immense pleasure of meeting and getting to know so very many people: the King County employees across the street, the lawyers in the building above, the architects next door, the firefighters down the way, the sportsball fans, the train travelers, the artists and residents of the Square, the First Thursday Art Walk crowd and everyone else who has helped Zeitgeist become the institution that it is.

I am buying a coffee shop- not just any coffee shop- but ZEITGEIST COFFEE! As I went over this offer in my head and talked with folks, I was surprised by how happy everyone was for this transition. The verbal support and cheers of congrats have been huge. Though I feel a bit nervous about not having my buddy Bryan here to help out, I feel confident that I can continue with his vision and put my own spin on it. I just need a little financial support so that this dream of owning my own coffee shop can become a reality.

I am asking you, the community of Pioneer Square and my friends and family, to help me carry Zeitgeist forward as a woman owned business. Money raised through this campaign will help with the first few months of operating costs for the café, staff and more late night art events such as live music, readings and film showings. Donations over $200 will get you a t-shirt or sweatshirt made just for this campaign. All donations will give you a boost knowing that you helped keep this café up and running. Thank you for being a part of the vibrant Zeitgeist community!