Rick’s Place owners thankful for their 30 years in Monmouth

While Rick’s Place Coffeehouse is no more, owners Rick and Mary Gydesen are still selling coffee and other goods through their catering business. You can find them at local events such as the Polk County Flea Market. Or you can book them for smaller events. Photo by Lance Masterson.

MONMOUTH - Rick and Mary Gydesen, who owned downtown’s popular Rick’s Place Coffeehouse, fondly remember those who frequented their business.

“For 30 years we relied on the community. We wish to express our deepest thanks for that support, and for that patronage for these many years,” Rick Gydesen said. “The closure of Rick’s Place is a bittersweet pill. But everything at some point comes to an end. Fortunately … we’re not quitting.”

Without a brick and mortar building, the Gydesens have turned to catering events, such as the Polk County Flea Market. They cater more intimate get-togethers, parties, family reunions and smaller meetings, as well.

On the menu are coffee, pastries, cookies, pies and an assortment of other favorites. Sandwiches are possible at some venues.

“We are using Indy Commons as our commissary, our food prep area,” Rick said.

Former customers know there was more to Rick’s Place than food and drink. Honey, photograph cards and collectibles from Mary and other vendors were among the items that lined their shelves.

“We still have access for our customers,” Rick said in reference to the honey and cards. “You’d be surprised at how many (of these items) we sold for them over the years.”

The Gydesens act as the link between customer and vendor.

High chairs, chest, coffee pots and a 1970s standing globe, all from Rick’s Place, were among the collectibles available at the time of this interview.

Rising operational expenses, increased competition and declining student enrollment at Western Oregon were cited as reasons why Rick’s Place closed its doors on Jan. 31.

Go to misscoffee27@yahoo.com to contact Rick and Mary Gydesen for more information or to place an order with one of their vendors.

The flea market is held the first Sunday of every (except August) at the Polk County Fairgrounds.