Volcano Vapor Cafe & Lounge
122 Capitol Way N
Olympia, WA
Decided to try something new: a hybrid coffeeshop/electronic cigarette place. Also sampled demo cinnamon-flavored, nicotine-free e-smoke–most likely shaving years off my life–although I never did quite figure out just what it was. Must say, it was interesting to see [what looked like] smoke coming from my lungs again after some 3 decades. I immediately regretted my lapse of judgement: purposely subjecting my body to some unknown potential carcinogen. The locals stared at me, astonished; one guy told me it was for quitters, not beginners. I quickly moved on to my tried-and-true coffee, chagrined.
The place was dark, with black, deep red, and chrome used liberally in the color scheme. Tables were few in number, and each had a volcano-ey frosted candle on it. A few booths, with vinyl covers, offered seating; we chose the counter stools facing the bright street, along the window. Felt as though we were looking out of a den of iniquity.
Fare: They offered a variety of coffee drinks, hot cider, and teas, which you could see and smell before ordering. A modest supply of pastries, but no day-olds.
Service and clientele: Workers were friendly and fair, tolerating me and my naivety. Customers seemed to be regulars (As if addicted. Does this mean I’ll be back? I doubt it). The e-smoke section was by far the more popular section of the place. They do have WIFI, however, and did not blare raucus music, to their credit.
Bathroom: Single room for either gender, with both a urinal and a booth toilet.
Rating: 1+ coffee bean (out of 5), due to atmosphere.