Explore the top 10 cat cafés around the globe. Discover menu highlights and visiting tips for how to get your kitty fix around the world.
It’s been a day: it’s raining, the clouds are low over the city, you’ve been trudging through the puddles and there is water in your socks, the “bagel shop of the moment” that you made the long trek to sample was sold out of basically everything so you’re hungry, tired and wet. You need something to lighten your mood, kick in those endorphins, and rescue this day. You need a cuddle, and a laugh, and a really good cup of coffee.
We’ve got you. Here are Cerca‘s top 10 cat cafes around the world – keep ’em in your back pocket for when you need it most, or put it on your itinerary ahead of time to make sure you don’t miss it!
1. Meow Parlour – New York City, USA
Nestled in the trendy streets of lower Manhattan, Meow Parlour offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. As NYC’s first cat cafe, it provides a cozy environment where visitors can relax with friendly felines, all of whom are adoptable. The cafe collaborates with local bakeries to offer delectable pastries, making it a haven for both cat and coffee lovers.
If you’re hungry after your visit take a quick 10 minute stroll north on Essex to Houston and hit Katz’s Deli. A New York institution since 1888. Get the Rueben or Corned Beef – massive sandwiches fit for 2.
Visiting Tip: Reservations are recommended. To ensure quality time with the cats, it’s best to book your visit during weekday mornings when it’s less crowded.
2. Cat Town Café – Oakland
Cat Town Café holds the distinction of being America’s first permanent cat cafe. Dedicated to rescuing at-risk cats from local shelters, this nonprofit organization provides a cage-free, enriching environment for its feline residents. Visitors can enjoy locally sourced coffee and pastries while interacting with cats ready for adoption.
Menu Highlight: Freshly baked cookies alongside a Vietnamese iced coffee.
Visiting Tip: Reservations recommended, walk-ins accepted when not over-booked. Weekday afternoons are ideal for visits, as the cats are usually more active and playful during these times.
While in Oakland, consider visiting the Oakland Zoo, which focuses on conservation and education, offering insights into various animal species and their habitats.
3. Le Café des Chats – Paris, France
In the heart of Paris’s Marais district lies Le Café des Chats, a charming establishment where patrons can dine in the company of rescued cats. The cafe’s ambiance is quintessentially Parisian, with vintage decor and a tranquil atmosphere. All resident cats are rescues, and many are up for adoption.
Menu Highlight: Delight in a traditional croque-monsieur paired with a glass of Bordeaux.
Visiting Tip: The Cafe does not take reservations. Early evening visits provide a cozy atmosphere, especially when paired with a glass of wine.
Before your visit, take a short walk to Île de la Cité and visit the Marché aux Fleurs (flower market) – on Sunday it transforms into a bird market, the air filled with song.
4. Café Neko – Vienna, Austria
Café Neko, located in Vienna’s historic center, is home to several friendly felines, all of whom were adopted from local shelters. Minimalist design, arched ceilings, complemented by traditional Austrian pastries.
Menu Highlight: In our opinion, you’ll probably want to skip the food here, so set your expectations accordingly!
Explore the Schönbrunn Zoo, the world’s oldest continuously operating zoo, renowned for its conservation efforts and diverse animal species.
5. Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium – London
Step into a whimsical world at Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium, London’s first cat cafe. The Alice in Wonderland-themed decor sets the stage for a magical experience, where guests can enjoy afternoon tea surrounded by friendly felines.
Menu Highlight: Indulge in their classic afternoon cream tea, featuring scones, jam and clotted cream, or order cheeseboard loaded with English and French cheese (vegan varieties available).
Visiting Tip: Book well in advance for weekend and holiday visits, as afternoon tea sessions are particularly popular. Note – bookings, even without food, have a price tag.
Animal Activity: After tea, take a leisurely walk along Regent’s Canal, where you might spot local wildlife and enjoy the serene waterside environment.
6. Crumbs & Whiskers – Los Angeles
The instagram-central-station of cat cafés: Crumbs & Whiskers sits on trendy Melrose Ave, at the start of several excellent blocks of shops. The cozy, modern space allows visitors to sip on premium coffee while snuggling with rescue cats that are up for adoption. And yes, they will happily show your their gallery of celebrity guests. Bonus? They offer yoga sessions with the cats!
Menu: Vanilla oat milk latte—it’s the perfect complement to an afternoon of feline fun.
On Sunday start your visit across the street at the Melrose Trading Post located at Fairfax High School and browse antiques and thrift goods from vintage t-shirts to furniture.
Booking in advance is recommended.
7. Kattencafé Kopjes – Amsterdam, Netherlands
As Amsterdam’s first cat cafe, Kattencafé Kopjes provides a cozy environment where visitors can unwind with a cup of coffee and the company of affectionate cats. The cafe’s mission focuses on animal welfare, with all resident cats being rescues.
Menu Highlight: Savor their homemade apple pie alongside a traditional Dutch coffee.
Visiting Tip: Age limit – 12 and over. Reservations recommended as this cozy spot only holds 10 people. Prepare to pay the 5 euro entrance fee.
Afterward, explore the Artis Royal Zoo, one of Europe’s oldest zoos, known for its diverse species and beautiful botanical gardens.
8. Neko no Jikan – Osaka, Japan
Cat Cafe’s first became a think in Japan. As Japan’s first-ever cat cafe, Neko no Jikan is a must-visit for travelers who love both tradition and cats. The peaceful, Zen-inspired space offers a true escape from city life.
Visiting Tip: No reservations required but there is an entrance fee of 1200-1300 Yen.
Check out Osaka’s Tennoji Zoo is home to a variety of exotic species.
9. Café Chat L’Heureux – Montreal
A pioneering cat cafe in North America, Café Chat L’Heureux in Montreal is all about happiness (as its name suggests). The cafe is home to a mix of rescued and permanent feline residents who roam freely while guests sip on ethically sourced coffee.
Menu Highlight: The restaurant offers an excellent seasonal menu full of salads, sandwiches, pastries and fair trade coffees.
Afterward, visit the Biodome de Montreal for an immersive wildlife experience.
10. Cat Café Melbourne – Australia
As Australia’s first cat cafe, Cat Café Melbourne provides a sanctuary for rescued cats, allowing visitors to relax and interact with the feline residents. The cafe also offers cat yoga sessions and movie nights, making it a hub for cat enthusiasts.
Menu: No food here, just coffee and tea.
Visiting: Bookings are $19 AUD.
Do you have a favorite cat café that’s not on our list? Send us your thoughts!
