Despite setbacks, business is booming for a bikini barista coffee shop in the Heights.

BILLINGS – A new Bikini Barista coffee shop has opened in Billings Heights, and despite some complaints from the community, business is booming.

For barista Harley Siren, it’s a normal Monday at work. But this is not your typical coffee shop. Unlike the other baristas, Sirin is in a bikini.

“It’s cool. Seeing almost twice as many customers in a shift. It’s fun, it’s fun,” Sirin said.

Justin McKinsey / MTN News

Until two weeks ago, the bikini baristas grinding nonstop at 2376 Main St. looked like any other coffee shop in town. Owners KC Johnson and Taeler Hirsch got the idea for Bikini Barista after traveling to Seattle.

“I see one in every direction. They each had a line, and I decided to do it here,” Johnson said.

Like the name of their coffee shop, the business, since the change, has been a constant grind.

“Yes, tips go up,” said barista Caitlin Booth.

Johnson’s business has quadrupled since rebranding.

“Business has been great. I mean great, we’re expanding soon,” Johnson said.

Not everyone likes the concept. Carrie Jones has a business down the road.

“I feel like I’m just a very offensive movement. It’s really disrespectful to women,” Jones said.

As a mother herself, she also worries about the girls’ safety.

“With sex trafficking in Billings right now, and how horrible it is, I feel like it’s a safety issue for working girls,” Jones said.

Justin McKinsey / MTN News

Johnson said they consider safety.

“They’re armed with pepper spray, they’re armed with tasers. There are locks on the door, there’s a panic button,” Johnson said.

These baristas agree, they say they love their job even if the coffee comes with a fuss.

“There are a lot of women coming forward because of all the things that are happening to women now. We’re out here supporting each other and doing everything we can to support body positivity,” said barista Sarah Sullivan.

Baristas say they feel empowered when they work.

“I really like the body too, all the girls who work here inspire everyone. And all our customers are so beautiful to all of us,” Booth said.