EL Café
Café: ‘a public coffee house’
History
English coffeehouses of the 17th and 18th centuries were vibrant spaces for conversation and debate. Known as “penny universities” because entry cost only a penny (the price of a cup of coffee), these coffeehouses attracted people from all walks of life—merchants, poets, scientists, and politicians.
They were egalitarian spaces where ideas flowed freely, fostering the intellectual energy that fueled the Enlightenment.
El Café Twist
El Café channels the lively energy of historical coffeehouses into a modern context. With 10–15 participants in casual public settings like coffee shops, it’s designed for shorter (2–3 hour) sessions that encourage open dialogue, playful exploration, and creative collaboration.
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While traditional coffeehouses focused on intellectual debate, El Café blends this with emotional connection and creativity. Facilitated activities ensure everyone feels included and valued, creating a space where strangers can connect deeply over shared curiosity and leave with fresh perspectives and inspiration.
