By Matt Dowell

The Shop Agora, 15th Ave’ Es Mediterranean food and wine shop, has changed ownership. New owner Katlynn Roumeliotis wants to continue Agora’s more-than-a-decade-long history as a neighborhood hangout with delicious pours.

“We’ll emphasize things we’ve already been doing. We’ll continue building programs like fun events and tastings.”

Roumeliotis is quite familiar with the shop and its community. She’s been with Agora since the Capitol Hill location’s opening in 2011 and has managed the shop for much of that time.

“I’ve been living and breathing the place for a long time. It’s a pretty natural evolution for me, it felt the same way for the owners, and it’s a natural progression for the shop.”

Original owners Nikos Spiliopoulo and Alexis Saloutos opened the business in 2007 in Phinney Ridge, creating a “retail sanctuary for Mediterranean specialty foods and wines.”  In 2011 the store expanded and ultimately relocated to its current location on 15th Ave E.

“We offer a European-inspired environment with a combination of retail specialty food and wine, deli items and a wine bar where you can simply enjoy a glass of vino or a full meal (we serve lunch and dinner everyday).”

The shop also offers a wine club and wine tastings, including non-alcoholic tastings. Roumeliotis hopes to build on these events as time goes on. “Community is a big part of who we are and we’ll continue to put energy into that.”

Spiliopoulo blessed the change in an announcement to customers.

“The shop has been our cherished creation and we could not feel better about passing it on to the person that deserves it most. Katlynn Roumeliotis, our long-time, entrusted employee and shop manager will carry the torch as the new owner of The Shop Agora. Katlynn is incredibly hard working, caring and will bring her new visions and touch to this beloved space.”

Roumeliotis isn’t sure about what comes next for the popular shop as customers look forward to Seattle summer and days on Agora’s patio seats.

“I have ideas but nothing set in stone,” she said. “We’ll see how things evolve naturally because that’s kind of how I got here originally. We’ll see what feels good.”

Speaking toward the shop’s evolution, Roumeliotis mentioned how seating has expanded over the years, including the outdoor patio. “It gets late sun in the summer and is a great place to hang out.”

But change always ruffles someone’s feathers. “We get a lot of first and second dates, which is surprising because of the intimacy of the environment – there’s nowhere to hide. We used to have booths in the back and people always ask us where they went.”

For any neighbors concerned about the ownership swap, Roumeliotis offers reassurance.

“As owner, my goal is to continue fostering the essence of The Shop Agora. You can expect the same packed shelves, warm welcoming, Mediterranean vibes, and a place to meet your neighbors.”

“Nikos will still be around, selling Greek wine … cheers-ing with the regulars, and cracking jokes… don’t worry, we’re not getting rid of him!”

The Shop Agora is located at 346 15th Ave E. Learn more at theshopagora.com.

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