It can be hard to live in the city without any of the feline or canine companions many of us grew up with. Thankfully, these must visit pet cafes are scattered throughout New York City and offer the perfect opportunity to unwind and kick-back with a tasty treat and a pet in your lap. Crazy cat ladies and dog fanatics alike adore these hangouts. With a range of different prices and locations, check out at least one of these cafes and even consider adopting a new friend while you’re at it.
To start with the essentials, Koneko was the first cat cafe in New York City and resides on the Lower East side of Manhattan. Konoko means “cat” in Japanese, and the authentic Japanese cat cafe and sake bar became a fast hit. The Japanese-inspired menu coupled with around 20 free-roaming felines makes the experience unforgettable. The cafe boats a revolving collection of artwork and Japanese culture events, but the best component undoubtedly remains their rescue mission. They partner with Anjellicle Cats Rescue to pull cats from New York City’s “at-risk” list, a compilation of cats facing impending euthanasia. All of Koneko’s cats come from this list and happily roam the cafes three cat-centric spaces (including an outdoor patio aptly named the catio) while waiting to be adopted by enamored guests. You can reserve a spot for $20 an hour online or show up and see if there’s any space to let your inner cat person out.
Arguably the city’s most popular cat cafe, Meow Parlor on the Lower East side is another way to get your cat fix in this week. This establishment was founded by pastry chef Christina Ha who previously ran the popular bakery Macaron Parlour, so you know the pastries will be just as sweet as the kittens in this hangout. The relaxing environment is split into two sides, with roughly ten cats on one and food on the other. You can buy a sweet treat and even adopt one of the cats with the help of KittyKind, a rescue organization that will interview you and conduct a home visit to ensure these felines make it to forever homes. The cats really run the space, with quiet areas to retreat to and lot’s of adoration to keep them going throughout the day. Meow Parlour is a highly affordable experience with half-hour long visits costing just $4.
The only cat cafe in this New York City borough, Brooklyn Cat Cafe is entirely run by a non-profit animal rescue organization: Brooklyn Bridge Animal Welfare Coalition (BBAWC). The organization established the cafe to provide a safe and accessible place for adoptees to meet cats and form a community. Grab a quick snack and snuggle at the cafe which is run by volunteers who also offers educational workshops on cat rescue. The best parts? They have a 24 hour live online cam of the cats and they have rescue rats for the open-minded. Two friendly rats play with kittens and demonstrate a really heartwarming case of interspecies affection… if you can separate them from the ones you see running under your car at night.
Need a canine to go with your coffee this morning? Boris and Horton is a great spot to indulge in an all-vegetarian menu, decadent coffee blends, and even craft beer and wine in the evenings, all in an entirely dog friendly location. Locals bring their dogs together to socialize, though individuals without their own canines are just as welcome. There are a few house rules to check out on their website before bringing your pooch in (“Humping is discouraged”), but otherwise get caffeinated and start wagging your tail at this Lower East Side hot spot.
Château le Woof is a classy pet market and cafe which not only welcomes visitors bringing their dogs but also caters to their dogs’ needs. The Astoria based store hosts a selection of incredible craft coffees, teas, salads, and sandwiches alongside healthy dog treats and snacks. They also host doggy happy hours from 7 to 8 p.m. on select nights so be sure to check out their website and plan accordingly.
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