Famous Cat Cafés Around the World

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Alana Theron, BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology

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Alana Theron, BSc in Biodiversity and Ecology

Cat cafés have rapidly become a global phenomenon, combining the joys of snuggling with felines and enjoying a cup of coffee. Originating in Taiwan in the late ’90s, these hybrid establishments have spread worldwide, captivating cat lovers and curious visitors alike. This article explores some of the most famous cat cafés worldwide, detailing what makes each one unique and beloved by its patrons.

Cat Flower Garden, Taipei, Taiwan

Kitten Garden Cafe. Screenshot form World’s First Cat Cafe CAFE & CATS 1998, Taiwan #guinessworldrecordholder; Uploaded: JustMeowPurrs; SOurce: YouTube.

Cat Flower Garden, also known as Café Cats & Dog, is credited as the world’s first cat café. Opening its doors in 1998 in Taipei, it offers visitors a sanctuary to enjoy the company of cats while sipping tea or coffee. This pioneering café set the stage for the global cat café trend, offering a peaceful escape in a bustling city.

The Cat Café Boom in Japan

The Cat Café Boom in Japan. Screenshot from Spending Paw-some Day in Japan’s Largest Cat Cafe with lots of Cats 🐈🍨🍭; Uploaded: Experience JAPAN; Source: YouTube.

Japan is renowned for its wide variety of themed cafés, and cat cafés are no exception. The first Japanese cat café, Neko no Jikan, opened in Osaka in 2004, sparking a nationwide craze. Japan now boasts countless cat cafés, each offering unique experiences that cater to different customer preferences, from those seeking relaxation to others looking for high-energy play with kittens.

Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium, London, UK

Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium. Screenshot from Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium – London CAT CAFE REVIEW; Uploaded: Laura Try; Source: YouTube.

As the first cat café to open in the UK, Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium in London offers a quintessentially British experience. Stepping into this Victorian-era themed venue, visitors can enjoy classic English teas surrounded by rescue cats. The café is noted for its cozy atmosphere and commitment to providing loving homes for its resident cats.

Le Café des Chats, Paris, France

Les Cafe des Chats. Screenshot from Le Café des Chats 🇫🇷 You can meet a variety of cats. Paris Cat café; Uploaded: WorldTravels; Source: YouTube.

In Paris, Le Café des Chats combines French sophistication with feline charm. Located in the heart of the Marais district, this café provides a serene atmosphere where patrons can relax with gourmet coffee and pastries. Every cat in the café is adopted from local shelters, emphasizing the ethical commitment to animal welfare.

Calico Cat Café, Tokyo, Japan

Cat Cafe Calico. Screenshot from Best Cat Cafe in Tokyo [Cat Cafe Calico]; Uploaded: JoDro Productions; Source: YouTube.

One of Tokyo’s most famous cat cafés, Calico offers a charming environment for cat lovers. With two floors filled with cats of various breeds, Calico is popular among both locals and tourists. The café’s peaceful ambiance is ideal for those seeking tranquility amidst Tokyo’s bustling atmosphere.

Meow Parlour, New York City, USA

Meow Parlour. Screenshot from Go Inside NYC’s First Permanent Cat Cafe!; Uploaded: WNYC; Source: YouTube.

Meow Parlour was established as New York City’s first cat café, allowing patrons to book time to unwind with affectionate cats. In addition to coffee and pastries, Meow Parlour serves as an adoption center, partnering with local shelters to find homes for its feline friends, promoting adoption through events and fostering programs.

Maison de Moggy, Edinburgh, Scotland

Screenshot from MAISON DE MOGGY CAT CAFE, EDINBURGH; Uploaded: Natural Born Glampers; Source: YouTube.

Maison de Moggy, Scotland’s first cat café, offers a uniquely Scottish twist on the cat café concept. Located in Edinburgh’s historic city center, the café is known for its selection of rare and exotic cat breeds, housed in a beautifully decorated environment that encourages play and interaction.

Kattencafé Kopjes, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Screenshot from The Netherlands vlog | Amsterdam cat cafe | Kattencafe Kopjes in Amsterdam | 암스테르담 냥이카페에 다녀왔어요; Uploaded: 네덜란드 브이로그; Source: YouTube.

Amsterdam’s Kattencafé Kopjes is a pioneer in the Netherlands’ cat café scene. Famous for its cozy atmosphere and excellent coffee, Kattencafé Kopjes provides a haven for both cats and humans, with all resident cats coming from local shelters, providing a loving touch to its operations.

Lucky Cat Café & Restaurant, Bangkok, Thailand

Screenshot from Welcome to Lucky Cat Cafe!; Uploaded: Lucky Cat Cafe; Source: YouTube.

Lucky Cat Café & Restaurant in Bangkok stands out by offering a full dining experience along with the companionship of its feline hosts. With a variety of local Thai and international dishes, the café attracts both cat enthusiasts and foodies, merging culinary excellence with feline fun.

The Global Appeal of Cat Cafés

World Records: Cat cafe in Seoul
Cat cafe in Seoul via Openverse

Cat cafés have proven to be more than just a novelty; they offer unique, comforting spaces where people can connect with animals and each other. Whether you’re enjoying a croissant in Paris or sushi in Tokyo, the warmth and companionship from these cafés’ resident cats create a memorable experience. As the trend continues, the appeal of cat cafés remains strong, uniting cat lovers worldwide with joy and companionship.

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