For the last five years, parents of young children in Ardmore have been fortunate enough to enjoy Lulu’s Casita. Created by Vivi Zayas and named after her oldest daughter Lulu, this play cafe offers a warm, culture-rich environment where kids can play safely and adults can connect with each other over a cup of coffee.

Last spring, Zayas started plans to open a second location in downtown West Chester. After months of construction and careful planning, the newest Lulu’s Casita is ready to open its doors.

“Main Line families have been traveling to our Ardmore location and asking when we were going to expand. West Chester was our first choice and we are so excited to be a part of this vibrant community,” said Zayas.

The newest location will carry many of the Ardmore Lulu’s Casita staples including the baby ball pit, pizza and BYOB Fridays, monthly El Brunchos (complete with character visits), and bilingual storytimes. There are cozy spaces for parents to hang out, delicious coffee, engaging toys and books, and of course hands-free bathroom use for parents thanks to the high chairs Lulu’s makes sure to put in each stall.

Since Zayas can’t be in two places at once, Lulu’s veteran Lisa Elliott will co-own and run the West Chester location.

“Lisa has been with me since I opened in Ardmore” said Vivi. “She took over when I had my children. We share the same spirit and the West Chester community is lucky to have her.”

In addition to private birthday parties, holiday festivities, and community events, the West Chester location will, beginning in October, give parents the opportunity to purchase co-working slots in hour increments.

“The West Chester location has two levels,” explained Elliott. “Parents can drop their children off in the downstairs play area and then head up to the cafe to work.”

The grand opening of Lulu’s Casita, West Chester is scheduled for Saturday, September 15. If you’re new to the play cafe concept, this is a great time to try it out. Families can enjoy open play from 9 am until 3 pm. There will be special events like a bilingual storytime, face painting, and a music circle happening hourly. The cafe will be open and ready to serve a full menu of coffees and snacks.

Lulu’s Casita’s newest location is located at 109 N. High Street in West Chester. For more information about Lulu’s Casita, and details about open play hours, and special events visit their website at luluscasita.com.

Photographs by Sarah L. Bender