About Café 1888

Café 1888 sits within Aurora’s first hospital, built in 1888—the same year the city was incorporated. For more than a century, the hospital served as a landmark of care until closing in 1995. Decades later, the site was restored as Bloomhaven, a community that continues its legacy of healing and connection.

Carrying that spirit forward, founder Jacqueline Mejia and partner Jeff Williams opened Café 1888 as an expansion of Atrevete Confections, her original bakery concept. What began in a shared kitchen in Naperville grew into multiple locations, with Café 1888 now offering fresh pastries, savory dishes, and specialty coffees in an inviting space.

More than a café, it’s a gathering place—where Aurora’s history meets community, and where Jacqui and Jeff’s passion for food and hospitality bring people together.