BOTHELL, Wash. -- A little yellow espresso stand on Bothell Way Northeast is creating a big buzz because of words on the stand’s marquee: "bikini barista starting 3-14-09."

The owner of Beehive Espresso blames a tough economy that has forced him to differentiate his business from the 10 other stands within four blocks – making it Bothell’s first bikini espresso.

Kim Wands used to be a barista at the stand and said she wouldn't go along with the idea that she had to wear a bikini or costume to keep her job.

She said she was fired. The new owner said she was let go for “performance” related issues.

"I have lived in Bothell for almost 20 years. I've grown up just up the street, my high school is just up the street, and I couldn't imagine dressing like that in my own community," Wands said.

While the city of Bothell has gotten an earful from residents concerned about the pending debut of the bikini espresso stand, city attorney Joe Beck said they'll keep an eye on the place once the switchover happens.

Beck said there is nothing illegal about the concept of the stand.

Some customers and a neighboring business owner, Bill McVay, said it doesn’t make it right.

"I think it is morally and ethically wrong," McVay said.