Times are tough but innovation by one entrepreneur helped him find a niche for his new business. Taking the Bikini Barista concept to the next logical step, he's putting smiles on a lot of people's faces with his controversial business model.

Last Monday (Feb 23, 2009), Donald Crabtree opened Grand View Topless Coffee Shop in Vassalboro, Maine (population 4,500), where five waiters and ten waitresses serve their customers topless. Many of these were people who had recently lost their jobs and were glad to have been hired from the more than 150 applicants.

So far the place is hugely popular and business is booming. Employees are doing well too - one waitress received a $100 tip for a cup of coffee, and most of the wait staff average $30 a table. And despite what you might expect, the customers tend to be couples and women.

For further info...

Topless Coffee Shop a Hit in Small Maine Town
http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/02/27/topless.coffee.shop/index.html?iref=mpstoryview

Topless Coffee Shop Drew 150 Applicants For 10 Positions
http://www.usnews.com/blogs/the-inside-job/2009/02/25/topless-coffee-shop-drew-150-applicants-for-10-positions.html

Topless Coffeehouse (Video) In Vassalboro, Maine
http://www.postchronicle.com/news/strange/article_212211304.shtml

And here's what the competition is up to...

Java Girls - Seattle
http://www.javagirls.net/

Bikini Coffee Company - Portland, OR
http://www.kgw.com/news-local/stories/kgw_062308_news_bikini_baristas_portland.3156873d.html

Cowgirls Espresso
http://www.cowgirlsespresso.com/main.php
Military Mondays, Cowgirls Tuesday, and Bikini Wednesday