East Crossroads Mainstay ‘Thou Mayest’ Seeking New ‘Flagship’ Location

(Editor’s note, update on Thou Mayest from El Honcho Bo Nelson) Thou Mayest is at the beginning of a really exciting era. We are still weighing options on various properties for landing our location for our new and larger flagship store.

The first project now under way is within Family Tree Nursery in Shawnee (7036 Nieman Rd.) and celebrates the world of plants. It’s called Cafe Equinox. The grand opening celebration is this Saturday Feb. 16 from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. 

Our second project is still very secret but we can say it will be taking us us back down to the East Crossroads.

This new concept will continue to provide a stimulating and engaging community space for people to connect but will also encourage “out of the cup” thinking around the concept, creation and consumption of great coffee beverages.

By Kevin Collison

Thou Mayest, the laid-back coffee shop and tavern that has helped define the East Crossroads vibe since it opened four years ago, is closing its doors at 419 E. 18th St. on Christmas Eve.

The owners however, are planning a second act for the popular place that took its name from the concept of free will expressed in John Steinbeck’s 1952 novel, “East of Eden.”

They’re looking for new digs to open a flagship operation where they can combine both the hospitality people have enjoyed in a space large enough to also accommodate its growing coffee roasting operation.

“We’re looking for the perfect spot and we’re being choosy about it,” said manager Austin Averill.

“We want the next spot to be a forever home, something that works for our guests either to study or to have a drink and be loud with friends.”

Since opening at 419 E. 18th St. four years ago, Thou Mayest has done much to help define the laid-back, welcoming vibe of the East Crossroads.

Among the factors pushing Thou Mayest out of its current location was the loss of its liquor license as well as the need for larger quarters.

“This spot and the restrictions weren’t conducive being here,” Averill said. “We want a liquor license and we’re also running out of room.”

In a note to patrons on its Facebook page, Thou Mayest said its fresh-roasted coffees will continue to be available for order through the Thou Mayest website during what was described as a transition period.

“We are grateful for our time at 419 e. 18th st and the friendships and community that have emerged in the East Crossroads, and we’re excited to share the next chapter of the Thou Mayest story with you,” the post stated.

“We’re positive that our flagship location will be everything you have come to expect from the Thou Mayest brand and more…

“Thank you for all the love and support over the last 4 years in our retail location in the Crossroads and we hope you’ll follow us on social media to see what we are up to daily and get connected.

“We have big dreams, a big vision, and we continue to #takefunseriously. Stay tuned!”

As to where and when a new place opens, Averill said Thou Mayest wants to complete its search as quickly as possible but at the same time do its homework.

“We’re trying to do it as soon as possible without feeling pressure,” he said.

“We want a location downtown. If it’s not our flagship location, than we want another shop there.”