A Playful (and Dog-Themed) Experience at ShiBoba Tea and Coffee

ShiBoba Tea and Coffee, a dog-themed café in Downtown Bellevue, has captured the hearts of locals with its Shiba Inu mascot, Yuan Yuan. Owner Sheila Locke, a Seattle native, opened her fourth bubble tea location on June 6, 2020, after navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Inspired by the Shiba Cafe concept from Japan, she aimed to combine her love for bubble tea with her passion for Shiba Inus, creating a unique experience for dog owners. The café boasts a diverse menu that includes classic bubble teas and creative items like Spam Musubi, alongside a welcoming ambiance decorated with dog-themed graphics. Locke's dedication to her craft is evident in her team's innovative offerings, such as the iced Assam Black Tea with fresh mango pulp.

The shop also features merchandise and a fun selfie backdrop, enhancing the overall customer experience. Locke enjoys connecting with local dog families and is pleasantly surprised by the number of Shiba Inus in Bellevue. Her vision is to stand out while fitting into the vibrant community, welcoming all breeds of dogs and their "hoomans.