Socializing has been a vital issue for Athenians, since ancient times. They would go to certain places to chat and meet new people, while drinking or eating. During Classical Antiquity, these places were small restaurant-bars (thermopolia) and in the modern times, coffeehouses (kafenia). The Athenians felt at home there, even in the most difficult historical circumstances, as these places welcomed their spontaneity and the need to express themselves freely.