Sprouts & Shutters: Neighborhood Church Opens Spacious 'Cafe4'

Residents of Castro Valley and vicinity have a spectacular new spot at which to sip lattes and enjoy the view at the new Cafe4 situated atop John Drive under the three crosses of the Neighborhood Church.

The Cafe4 opened recently in a new 10,000 square foot addition to 40-plus year-old church. Manager Kathleen Campbell said the name Cafe4 was a play on its purpose: the cafe for "coffee, creativity and community" that the builders hoped would draw patrons to the place.

The setting is stunning. Vaulted ceilings lift the spirits. South-facing, floor-to-ceiling glass bathes the interior in light. Campbell said the goal is to make the cafe a destination for community members as well as church's 2,000 or so congregation members.  

"We imagine people sitting here and reading or meeting friends while others crochet or sculpt or paint," Campbell said.

Cafe4 will be open from 7 am to 7 pm Sunday through Friday, closing Saturdays. Free wifi is provided, though the cafe is having to work some kinks out of the system, Campbell said.

Where's your coffee hangout? Have you visited Cafe4? Any thoughts?