Agree. Also, her entire premise depends upon the man always paying for the date, rather than going Dutch, or trading off back and forth for payment of dates.
Coffee dates are great. The lie investment is a boon for both parties.
Also contrary to her article, women are under no more pressure to perform than men are. Coffee dates to get to know each other and nothing more take a lot of this pressure off.
They're also great for those who need to practice social skills or general dating skills.