Third Space Operators Share Insights on Building Community Spaces
10 reported
Eater’s Pre Shift newsletter hosted an event at Café Tondo in Los Angeles to discuss third spaces, featuring operators Abraham Campillo of Café Tondo, Matthew Glaser of Park Hospitality, and Sarah Lewitinn of Jacaranda, moderated by Eater brand director Lesley Suter. The conversation covered definitions of third spaces, community building, and operational decisions that make these venues welcoming. Lewitinn described a third space as a place where people can meet without necessarily involving commerce, while Glaser emphasized the importance of lingering and the element of chance encounters. Campillo said third spaces are a response to loneliness in an increasingly digital world. Panelists shared strategies such as no-turn policies, walk-in seating, and social media use to attract and retain customers. They also offered advice on connecting people, collaborating with neighboring businesses, and ensuring at least one team member genuinely loves the space.
What’s reported
The event was held at Café Tondo in Los Angeles and moderated by Eater brand director Lesley Suter.
Panelists included Abraham Campillo of Café Tondo, Matthew Glaser of Park Hospitality, and Sarah Lewitinn of Jacaranda.
Lewitinn defined a third space as a place for people to meet, not necessarily involving commerce.
Glaser said lingering is important and third spaces introduce a level of chaos and stranger interaction.
Campillo stated third spaces combat loneliness in a digitized world.
Campillo’s Café Tondo uses walk-in seating in a greenhouse area and outside seating.
Lewitinn’s Jacaranda has a no-turn policy, allowing guests to keep their table for the night.
Glaser noted social media can reduce PR costs but can also take operators out of the third space.
Campillo encouraged neighbors to collaborate rather than compete.
Glaser advised that at least one team member must love the space and crowd.
Key figures
Abraham Campillo, co-owner of Café Tondo
Matthew Glaser, of Park Hospitality
Sarah Lewitinn, co-owner of Jacaranda
Lesley Suter, Eater brand director (moderator)
Brian Traynam, bar mentor of Uncle Ollie’s (mentioned by Glaser)
Sources: eater.com
