Joe might refrigerate, but he has a warm place in The Bean’s heart
You will probably find Joe Olson, a gentleman who brings to mind a large, real-life teddy-bear, quietly sitting by a computer in The Bean sipping on a coffee (with just one sugar). If you haven’t spoken to this friendly fellow, you should know that he ensures your favorite baked goods and salads at The Bean stay fresh and delicious via his refrigeration services. The Bean’s Sarah Kamenetz talks with Joe about his friendship with the owners of The Bean and his refrigeration business.
Sarah Kamenetz: How did you get into the refrigeration business?
Joe Olsen: My father was in the business, and I learned it from him. Then, I enlisted into the army and worked in helicopter aviation. I carried on doing the same thing as my father once I got out of the army. I work all over the city. My job is basically maintaining and repairing refrigerators to make sure they are functioning properly.
SK: Were you friends with Guy (the manager), Ike (co-owner), and Sammy (co-owner) before or after doing refrigeration work for The Bean?
JO: I grabbed a coffee one day and started talking to them. They learned my business and needed my help, so they hired me five years ago at the original location. I still work for them, but we have been friends ever since.
SK: What is your favorite thing to get to eat and drink at The Bean?
JO: I always get a hot coffee with one sugar. Sometimes I get a blueberry muffin.
SK: What is your favorite thing about The Bean?
JO: I always liked that everyone is so friendly and welcoming. Everyone always has a smile and being at The Bean is like being onCheers. I love that the Broadway location is right across the street from Strand Bookstore. I have a personal collection at home of over 2500 books from writers like Tom Clancy.
SK: How do you feel about the opening of the new location at 2nd Avenue?
JO: I love it and am so happy it opened. I actually brought my wife to the opening and we agreed that each new store is more beautiful than the next.
If you are interested in Joe’s refrigeration services, email him at JoeRefrigeration22@gmail.com.
