Carlyn, some of the very points folks you quoted in your article as being coffee date negatie can be interpreted as positive.

Coffee dates give both parties flexibility of getting to know each other without the distraction of a movie, dinner, or alcohol haze interfering with conversation. At any time either party can make a graceful exit if he or she choses. Less pressure--not more! On a coffee date all parties are financially equal. Romance is the responsibility of the dating parties not influenced by anything else.

Interesting article, loved to read other people's views on the subject.