Discover Luhu, Groningen’s Most Unique Café
Tired of noisy study spots? LUHU Café offers a quiet, distraction-free space where students can study, enjoy great coffee, and even learn a bit of sign language along the way.
Exam weeks are just around the corner, and you’re already dreading packed libraries, the noisy chatter of people treating study spots like dating sites, and the vending machines that always seem to run out of coffee. But fear not—Luhu is here to save the day.
Although this charming café is a go-to spot year-round, it becomes an absolute lifesaver during exam season. It’s a safe haven for those looking to escape chaos, study in a cozy atmosphere, or simply unwind in a welcoming environment.
Luhu is the first café in the Netherlands fully run by deaf people. While similar concepts had already popped up in places like Spain, Singapore, and Dubai, founders Engelien Kester and Dennis Hoogeveen realized that nothing like it existed in the Netherlands. Determined to change that, they launched a crowdfunding campaign—and thanks to its success, Luhu became a reality in 2022.
Now, everyone who works at Luhu is deaf and communicates using Dutch Sign Language. That’s right — nobody who works there will be able to hear your two-day-old hoarse voice from your Peperstraat party streak. Instead, you’ll have to order your oat milk cappuccino using sign language— but that’s part of the fun!
If you are unsure of how to order your drink or meal in sign language (as most of us probably are) fear not. Engelien and her team are happy to teach you, and several screens behind the counter display videos demonstrating different signs for ordering drinks. You definitely won’t be the only one who’s a little lost - Engelien says that she “definitely notices that students are eager to learn sign language, and it’s so much fun to see them pick up something new each time!... It always puts a big smile on our faces! That’s what we’re here for!”
Plus, the best part about Luhu? A beautiful back garden with lots of sun and absolutely no music playing in the cafe. Forget the chill lofi beats playlist that seems to have taken over every place in the center - stash your headphones away and simply enjoy pure, uninterrupted silence. Even better, there’s no need to feel rushed when studying; Engelien and her team “actually really enjoy it when students come to study with us”.
Despite being in plain sight (right in Munnekeholm across from TrainMore) Luhu is truly a hidden gem. Next time you pass by, step inside and treat yourself to their delicious coffee and handmade pastries by ordering in clumsy (but redeemable) sign language.
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