New Businesses Sprout at 640 S. Forks Ave:Retail, Restaurant, and Renewed Energy
Published 1:30 am Thursday, November 27, 2025
There’s a burst of activity underway at 640 S. Forks Ave., where several new ventures are transforming the former Olympic Graphic Arts Building into a lively commercial hub. In addition to Ideal Real Estate’s activities, two other new businesses are also taking shape.
“I had all this space,” said building owner Rachel Breed. “It doesn’t look that big from the outside, but there was a lot of unused room, especially in the back, where large printing equipment once sat.” With the building hers to reimagine, Breed is welcoming new opportunities.
Sawdust Blues Coming Soon
Opening first will be Sawdust Blues, a fun new home-goods shop offering décor items and small furniture pieces geared toward both locals and visitors. With shelving and products already arriving, Rachel hopes to welcome shoppers by Black Friday. She has enlisted the help of her mom, Barb, to oversee the store.
Marble & Oak: A New Upscale Dining Option
Just as noticeable is the larger project underway: Marble & Oak, a new restaurant that aims to deliver an elevated dining experience to Forks. Construction is in full swing, including a new deck for outdoor seating, a retaining wall, and handicapped-accessible parking off Forks Avenue. Additional parking will be available from G Street on the south side.
Local contractor Arian Goodson and his Bearcreek Builders crew are leading the build. Goodson is also a partner in the restaurant, along with Matt Breed, Rachel’s husband, whose industry connections have helped secure needed materials. Felicia Larson rounds out the partnership.
The couples hope to fill a local dining gap. “We want to bring something to Forks that’s been missing, a more upscale eatery where both locals and visitors feel welcome,” Rachel said.
Inside, Marble & Oak will offer seating for just under 100 guests across indoor, outdoor, and bar areas. The décor aims for a timeless feel, featuring walls in “Lake Crescent green,” vintage church lights that cast soft warmth, and old-fashioned booths mixed with table seating. The restaurant’s name will even be reflected in its finishes, oak flooring with marble touches in the bar. Goodson shared that there will also be some decorations that pay tribute to logging history.
Coastal Cuisine, Craft Cocktails, and Local Focus
Rachel and Felicia describe the menu as coastal cuisine paired with craft cocktails. “We’re working with someone local for produce and plan to feature local fish, berries, and other seasonal ingredients,” they said. The restaurant has already submitted its menu to the Liquor Control Board.
The team emphasized a commitment to real, natural foods, no seed oils, beef tallow will be used for cooking. Possible specials include lobster or caviar. Vegan and gluten-free offerings will also be available. Even the building materials reflect the local theme: cedar milled by Steve Castellano is being incorporated in the deck area.
While costs have been higher than expected, Goodson said they’ve found savings by sourcing equipment through auctions and other opportunities. “We have really lucked out on a couple of large, expensive items,” he shared.
Team Building and Opening Plans
Rachel and Felicia, colleagues and friends since 2021, say the partnership has been a natural fit. Hiring is already underway, with plans to employ around 10 staff members. Chef Andrew of Spokane, who is also Felicia’s father, has joined the team, along with two additional kitchen hires.
Proposed hours are Thursday through Monday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., with a possible weekend brunch from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. The team also hopes to offer a special Mother’s Day brunch. Opening is tentatively planned for around Valentine’s Day.
Those interested in employment opportunities can email info@marbleandoakforks@gmail.com
