Cafés have evolved. Now they are spaces for meetings, working, hanging out, dates, live music, poetry slams, and artist exhibitions. The first coffeehouses, however, were places for the middle/upper class of society to meet and discuss ideas, political aspirations, and deals.

The origins of coffee can be traced from Ethiopia to Arabia and, by the 16th century, it had found its way to Europe. At first, coffee was considered the “devil’s drink” because it had come from foreign lands. Then Pope Clement VIII decided he would baptize coffee so that Europeans could enjoy the benefits with Church approval.

While caffeine is not thought of in the same way as narcotics and other harder drugs, it is considered a drug, because it stimulates the central nervous system. It can boost energy and elevate mood. It’s one of the most popular drugs consumed today.