Member Spotlight: Encore Chocolates & Teas, Craft Chocolates, Premium Teas in the Heart of Downtown Olympia

In a world that often feels hurried, Encore Chocolates & Teas invites customers to slow down, savor the moment, and discover something new. Since 2013, this downtown Olympia shop has been a gathering place for tea lovers, chocolate enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike. It’s a cozy space where browsing is encouraged and every shelf offers a new delight to explore.

From loose-leaf teas and teapots to specialty treats, caramels, marshmallows, and more, Encore is a treasure trove of carefully curated finds, carrying more than 400 kinds of craft chocolates and more than 400 kinds of premium teas.

But beyond its impressive selection, the shop is built on a simple philosophy: everyone deserves a little comfort. Whether customers arrive searching for a longtime favorite or hoping to discover something unexpected, they’re welcomed into a community that shares an appreciation for quality, craftsmanship, and the simple joy of treating yourself.

A Storied History on the Shelves

To truly understand Encore’s charm, you must look at its roots (and no, we’re not talking about the live, indoor Bigleaf Magnolia tree sprouting from the center of the shop). Longtime locals might remember owners Dean and Carla Jones from their days owning The Four Seasons Bookstore downtown. While the medium may have changed from paper to chocolate and teas their love for curation never left.

Step inside the shop, and that bookish history is immediately apparent. The displays are organized with the meticulous care of a beloved independent bookstore. Instead of rushing through checkout, customers are encouraged to linger, browse, and discover artisan chocolate bars and premium teas as if they were searching for a new favorite novel.

“I have been in retail the majority of my working life. My joy comes from interactions with customers,” Dean Jones shares. “Being able to share my love of the products we sell, getting to do that is very rewarding. I have been able to achieve five major passions so far in my life. My wife Carla, my three children, owning a bookstore and now chocolates and teas. What a great adventure I have enjoyed.”

Intention in Every Cup

In true Olympia fashion, what’s on the shelves matters just as much as how it looks. Encore approaches sourcing with a deep sense of responsibility. They intentionally partner with makers who align with local values, prioritizing:

• Ethical sourcing and fair trade practices.
• Women-owned businesses and independent chocolatiers.
• Products grown with minimal pesticides and herbicides.

This thoughtful curation also means ensuring no one is left out of the experience. Recognizing the diverse dietary needs of the community, Encore has become a haven for specialty treats, stocking everything from rich vegan caramels to velvety oat milk chocolates.

“Encore continues to focus on providing quality products for our customers,” says Lead Buyer and Store Manager Erica Hill, who has been a familiar face behind the counter for a decade. “We work very hard to provide attentive and friendly customer service. We want customers to feel welcomed and heard when they walk through our doors.”

Grown by the Community, For the Community

Encore hasn’t grown by chasing flashy internet trends or rushing to expand. Instead, its evolution has been entirely organic, shaped by the changing needs and voices of customers who frequently visit the shop.

Whether you are a seasoned tea connoisseur looking for a rare single-estate tea, or a parent looking for an allergy-safe treat for your child, the staff takes the time to guide you. At Encore, you’ll find that the staff have a genuine desire to share knowledge and connect with customers.

“We pride ourselves in providing a safe and welcoming environment for every customer,” Hill reflects. It is important to our staff that when a person walks into the store they will leave with more knowledge about chocolates and teas and have an enjoyable experience.”

Each carefully sourced product, each thoughtful recommendation, and each conversation shared across the counter has contributed to a business that feels deeply woven into the fabric of downtown Olympia. Like a well-crafted cup of tea, Encore’s success is rooted in patience and intention, inviting customers to slow down and enjoy a blend of quality, curiosity, and community that only grows richer with time.

Encore Chocolates & Teas
116 5th Ave SE
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 350-0833

Photo Credit: Olympia Downtown Alliance. All images are our own; please contact us (mwillie@downtownolympia.org) for explicit permission before use.