This Boise business has closed after years downtown. Even an Idaho governor was a customer.

There’s one less spot for a morning cup of Joe in downtown Boise.

Thomas Hammer Coffee Roasters, 298 N. 8th St., has permanently closed.

Headquartered in Spokane, Thomas Hammer Coffee is a regional chain with most of its stores in Washington state. An email to company founder Thomas Hammer was not immediately returned.

The downtown Boise shop has been a staple at the corner of 8th and Bannock streets for about a decade and a half. Over the years, it’s been a regular stop for First Thursday tours — and for the occasional Idaho politician.

In 2009, the owner of Dawson Taylor Coffee Roasters across the street made news when he cursed at then-Idaho Gov. Butch Otter for frequenting an out-of-state shop instead of a local business. He later apologized, and Otter accepted — but not before media could have a heyday with puns such as “steamed” and “brew-ha-ha.” (Hey, did anyone use “frothing at the mouth”?)

Thomas Hammer Coffee Roasters has three remaining Idaho stores — in Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene and Hayden.

The brand also sells its coffee in grocery stores, at restaurants and through other outlets.

This story was originally published August 31, 2020 at 2:25 PM.