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Hours
Sun
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Mon
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tue
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wed
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thu
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Fri
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sat
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
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CUISINES
Cafe
FEATURES
Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Discover
Menu
Hot Drinks
Espresso
12oz
$3.00
Americano
12oz
$3.25
16oz
$3.50
Cappuccino
12oz
$3.50
16oz
$4.00
Latte
12oz
$3.50
16oz
$4.00
Coffee
12oz
$2.50
16oz
$2.75
Hot Tea
12oz
$2.00
16oz
$2.50
Are the prices at this restaurant low or inexpensive?
Details
About
The Cat Cafe is Southern California's first cat cafe, located in the heart of downtown San Diego. We're a short walk away from San Diego landmarks like the Convention Center, Petco Park, and the Gaslamp District. Featuring award winning coffee from Cafe Virtuouso and West Coast Coffee Roasters, pastries from Bread & Cie, cookies from The Cravory, and sandwiches from Sunshine & Orange, The Cat Cafe offers visitors a chance to interact with adoptable cats from The Rescue House. Visit us today to enjoy a little purr therapy in downtown San Diego.
CUISINES
Cafe
FEATURES
Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Wheelchair Accessible, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Discover
Contribute
4.5
120 reviews
Excellent
82
Very good
22
Average
6
Poor
6
Terrible
4
Corporate Reviews
Connell81 contributions
Jul 2021 • family
This is a newer cafe situated a few blocks from the Convention Center, and parking was easy to get.
They require a reservation due to limited time with the cats. The fee includes a drink or something to eat; I highly recommend both.
The coffee is very good, the slice of lemon cake was less so. Slightly dry, but good flavor.
The rule is only one hour max within the cat quarters, and no lifting the cats. But the assortment of kitties is excellent, from rare Bengal cats to common tabby cats. All are easygoing and they don’t mind the constant attention. The area is supervised during the visit.
Written July 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
We're glad you were able to find parking without too much trouble. That can be a challenge downtown. Thanks for letting everyone know that a reservation is best. And we appreciate you highlighting the variety of cats we have as well as the guidelines for interacting with them.
Written October 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ryan M
1 contribution
Sep 2021 • none
I nice way to spend an hour! Nice treats and an impressive soy latte! The cats were fun and playful and the kiddos enjoyed the experience. The said they are able to complete 2 adoptions per week because of the cat cafe program. It felt like my money went to a good cause. The only negative was it was difficult to find and many public parking options around are $25 for the day. I'd recommend arriving early so you can find cheaper parking options.
Written September 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
We're glad you enjoyed the soy latte and thanks for pointing out the challenges with parking for others to see. We look forward to seeing you back when you want to help adoptable cats find homes.
Written October 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
C H
San Diego41 contributions
Jul 2023 • family
A family member and I heard about The Cat Cafe before the pandemic and had vague plans to check it out. I previously visited Crumbs and Whiskers in Washington, DC's Georgetown neighborhood, and my family member has been to Cat & Craft up in Vista. Neither of us have visited a cat cafe in Japan (someday, hopefully!), but understand in the U.S. the focus is on encouraging patrons to adopt these lovable felines. Parking was easy midday on a weekend, with a fairly reasonably priced Ace Parking lot located just two blocks away. The cafe wasn't difficult to find. We weren't particularly impressed with the entryway, which had the atmosphere of a gritty coffee shop with limited selections and barely OK customer service. Understandably, the business doesn't want people bringing in meals to where the cats are (apparently, hot tea was okay with a cover), and we were glad that one item was included with the $20 per person cover charge. Pricey, but reasonable given the limited number of people allowed with the cats per hour slot: we're paying for the experience. The room with the cats was a pleasant surprise. There were 11 cats total (the business states it adheres to ASPCA guidelines for 12 cats maximum), all of which seemed pretty chill, happy, and well-cared for. Being cats, they were at turns playful, napping, and/or poking around curiously. We were very glad to see how clean and tidy the area was, and that there was an attendant on-hand at all times to look out for the cats, answer questions (the same ones I'm sure he receives several times a day!), and ensure patrons left their personal belongings (bags, etc.) in a secure area. The room itself was pretty mellow, with soothing music. While the cats were clearly available for adoption, the cafe is not overly pushy about advertising that fact to the patrons, which is a nice contrast to the prior cat cafes we've visited. Only suggestions I would make are: (1) have a hand washing station available on leaving the cat room (so people don't have to line up in front of the restroom), (2) make more effort in customer service in the waiting area; and (3) though room is scarce, there is a nice outdoor place to eat, so provide more food and drink options with better presentation. After seeing the cats, why not have a really nice (cat-themed) space for people to sit, enjoy a drink over a snack, and chat about the cats and how much they would like to adopt one?
Written July 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
orellanaj61
Rio Rancho6 contributions
Mar 2024 • family
I'd read about the pig cafes in Japan, so while in San Diego when I saw the cat cafe, I was jazzed. My sisters and I are cat/animal lovers and drinkers of the magic elixir coffee. We decided to make the visit to the cat cafe, and it exceeded our expectations. The cats were especially selected for amicability, and while enjoying our drinks and pastry, we got up to pet the furry friends. One cat was 14 years of age, and had survived some intense treatments to save its life. 2 beautiful, black kitty siblings romped and playfully tore around their fun filled spacious play room. The place was clean, and didn't even smell like kitty litter business! It was a special treat for all of us. The money we spent goes toward this non profit, which rescues cats, and has them available for adoption. Don't miss this if you're a cat lover!
Written March 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Claire W
Aliso Viejo4 contributions
Feb 2022 • none
You have to make reservations for this Cat Cafe, but the planning ahead is totally worth it. For the price ($15), you are supporting the shelter cats while drinking a lovely coffee drink (or other item) that would normally cost about $6, but comes with the entrance cost. I took my son there because I was visiting him on campus and he really, really misses his dog at home so a room full of cats was a decent 2nd best. He is 19 and he loved it, so it's definitely an "all ages" type of experience. The room must remain calm at all times, so they play what I would call "yoga room" music while you pet the cats. It becomes an hour that you hope doesn't end too soon.
Written March 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
We're glad we were able to give you and your son a chance to interact with animals while he's in school. And thanks for letting people know about the calm environment we work to maintain. We'll also let our baristas know that you enjoyed your drink.
Written March 5, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Desirae Jenkins
3 contributions
Mar 2022 • family
The cats are very well taken care of. There are plenty of toys and beds for the cats to play and sleep in. The owner is very nice, and he spoke about each cat's story. It's very clean and spacious for the cats to live a good quality of life. I love all the cats, but I was particularly drawn to an 8 year old Siamese male named Sima. He is an absolute sweetheart and stole my heart from the get go! If you want to spend 1 hour, then you need to make a reservation in advance. The cost is expensive, but you get a free item with your visit, and your money is going to a worthy cause to improve the quality of life for these cats. I HIGHLY recommend coming here if you're a cat lover!
Written March 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
You'll be happy to know that Sima and his best friend Anton were adopted. Thanks for your support and we look forward to seeing you back again soon.
Written October 23, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kitty W
San Diego1 contribution
May 2022 • none
We were 20 mins late due to traffic and lack of parking spaces around the cafe, but we had no issue entering the session. Even though we only had around 40 mins around the cats, it was truly an awesome experience. My husband LOVES cats and he couldn't stop smiling the moment he entered the cat room. He left the room without any stress. We enjoyed the cafe and we will be back soon to meet a kitty cat to bring home with us.
Written June 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
That's what we work to do, send visitors out with a smile. We're glad we were able to do that even with the challenge of parking. Come see us when it's time to adopt.
Written October 23, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Emily J
1 contribution
Dec 2021 • none
This is one of my favorite places to visit when I come to San Diego. I love this business. The coffee is excellent and it's clear that the cats are well taken care of.
A great spot to go alone, with friends, or family. It would also be a cute date idea if both parties like cats.
You get a beverage included with your admission and an hour long visit with the cats. The timing of it is quite nice.
We happened to walk in to see if there were any changes to the hours because of the holiday season. We were lucky enough to make it into the next group, but I would definitely advise (for anyone and my own future visits) to make a reservation online so that you're certain you have a spot. We checked-in and got our drinks. There's a lovely outdoor patio where you can wait. It was lovely with the coffee.
Inside was wonderful too!
If you're looking to adopt a cat or are just curious of the space & love cats, this is the place for you. Highly recommend!
Written December 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
We're honored to be considered one of your favorite places to visit in San Diego. Thanks for the compliment and for noticing the care we take of the animals. And we're glad you shared how you enjoy the coffee as well because often, that gets lost due to people being so focused on the cats.
We look forward to welcoming you back again and want to thank you for highlighting how it's best to make a reservation to secure your spot.
Written December 29, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Robin M
1 contribution
Apr 2023 • couples
We had a wonderful hour with the kitties at this Cat Cafe. I had never been to one before and this was a very nice experience. I appreciate that they set up everything for the comfort and security of the cats, who all seem very happy. There were only about 6 of them out and about, but they were friendly and sweet and one even crawled in my lap and gave me kitty kisses (once I sat down on the floor). I was happy to support the organization even though I can't adopt any more cats right now - it gave me a great kitty fix after being away from my own cats for a few days!! Highly recommend.
Written April 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda F
1 contribution
Jan 2024 • family
Great place to unwind with cats. Very professional staff. You receive one free drink or snack which you can take in to the cat playroom. Tables are also set up inside the room. Cats roam free and there are plenty of cat toys to help you interact with them. Each cat has a Bio and photo to help you know them better. It is clean with no smells of cat urine. Most of these cats are adoptable.
Written January 6, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
emdee90
Scottsdale3 contributions
Aug 2019 • solo
I visited the Cat Cafe a few months ago when I was in San Diego for business. I loved the chill environment and the relaxing atmosphere for both patrons and the beautiful cats. It’s calm, inviting and wonderful. The owner runs a fantastic operation and I heavily recommend it. Thankfully it isn’t a “McDonalds Playhouse” environment and I completely appreciate efforts to keep things safe and home like for the kitties.
Written January 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
We're glad you enjoyed your visit and that you enjoyed the calm and relaxed environment we seek to create for our visitors, staff and cats. We appreciate you understanding why we do it and that it's for the safety and enjoyment of everyone.
Written February 27, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jeff J
San Diego11 contributions
Apr 2024 • family
The staff here is incredibly inconsiderate and unkind. I left my backpack at the cafe and spoke to the barista there twice to ask if it was there, and they said they couldn't find it, despite my AirTag telling me it was there, so I left my phone number with them and they said they'd call me if they found something. They never followed up. Then, I called again a couple of weeks later and they said they threw it away because it had been there too long. It had about $200 worth of my personal belongings in it.
Written May 2, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tony Wang
This review is like a movie that has "based on a true story." Like that movie, there is an element of truth to it. But there's a lot that's made up.
Mr. Jacobs did visit us, and he did leave his backpack behind. That much is true.
However, he did not contact us until almost two weeks had gone by and his bag was starting to smell bad. When we took it to Goodwill to donate, they told us to throw it away because it smelled so bad.
About a month after his visit, Mr. Jacobs then sent us an email that contained this line. "I will be writing you a horrible google review unless you help me to recover the backpack or reimburse me with the contents."
Now, if you think it's reasonable to expect a business to hold on to something left behind for a month that smelled so badly that the used litter we toss out every day smells better, you should stay away.
If you're not unreasonable like Mr. Jacobs, then please come by and visit.
Written May 6, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
sphoorti
Pune91 contributions
Mar 2022 • none
Really loved my time at the cat cafe. The staff is welcoming, and the cats are just a treat for your eyes and heart — easy to approach, pet, and play with. The cafe has many toys and the staff even guides you on how you can use them. (I certainly needed the hint since I have never had a cat). Overall, a fantastic way to spend an hour when you're in SD.
PS: With your entry ticket/reservation, you get a free drink or snack.
Written March 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
We appreciate you taking the time to write this review. And thanks for taking the guidance we provided on how best to interact with a cat in the way we intended, as something that will help you enjoy your experience more. We look forward to seeing you back the next time you are in San Diego.
Written March 5, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Desire s
Ocala74 contributions
Oct 2022 • none
The staff was kind and friendly, our entry ticket included a drink or snack which was awesome. Love the artwork and wall paintings, all cats of course! The kitties area was clean and lots of cat trees and toys! Our hour went by so fast. Love that they have kitties for adoption as well as some permanent resident kitties! Cosmo is so super cute!
Written October 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
You'll be happy to know that Cosmo found a home. Thank you for taking the time to write this nice review. We appreciate you noticing the cleanliness of the cat room. It tells us our efforts to keep it clean pay off.
Written October 23, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Heather G
San Diego3 contributions
Aug 2021 • family
I brought my twin girls here with me and my mom. The girls LOVED IT! The cafe has lots of tasty treats and the area where the cats are kept is immaculately clean. I’ve been to other adoption sites where the smell of the cats is overpowering, this is not the case at The Cat Cafe. It is also clear the cats are well loved and cared for. The only feedback I have is having realistic expectations for little people who are visiting. The minimum age is 6 and with some coaching the girls did great with the kitties, but at times it felt like everything they did sparked a correction or comment from the staff (I think) there. I think I’ll wait until the girls are a bit older to visit with them again.
Written August 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bagheera05
We appreciate the feedback on the expectations for children. While we do guide them a lot, this is done in order to make sure they don't end up getting bitten or scratched if they do something one of the animals doesn't like. We'll try to make it a more positive experience for your children next time.
Written October 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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