The Cat and Coffee Café

My first weekend in Korea, I found myself on the third floor of LaFesta, Ilsan, looking in the window of a Cat Café. Amongst the traditional café tables, chairs and long benches, there were Kitty Condos, scratching posts, and a number of incredibly adorable kittens. 

It seems like a strange concept, and when you go there, the whole thing seems ridiculous. But, it is ridiculous in the most awesome way.  As you enter, there is place where you exchange your shoes for light foam slippers. There are a sign  of rules on the wall, conveniently also written in English: 1. You are not required to pay, however , please buy a drink.  2. No flash on Cameras. 3. No outside food or treats, 4. There is hand sanitizer provided, etc.

The coffee and tea starts at 5000 won (it’s easiest just to think of that as $5). On top of that, you can buy catnip and treats to win the cats’ affection. After you buy your drink, you proceed through a sliding half door into a room filled with cats. Depending on when you go, the crowd will vary. The first time I went it was a Saturday, meaning lots of children running around, chasing after kittens. The second time, there was one young male Korean, drinking a tea in the corner and actively playing with the cats.  Later, another well dressed Korean man walked in, he seemed to be friends with the staff, but also enjoyed playing with the cats. 

The cats and kittens are all incredibly cute. Some are very active, and will run around the room at high speeds; others will take a nap on the table next to you. Most are used to being picked up, and if you’re really lucky, use your arm as a heat source.



5 tips for the Cat Café:

1. Guard your drinks
2. Avoid peak hours when children will be present
3. Do not wear clothing that will show cat hair
4. Bring a friend, not a book. If you open the book, a cat will likely jump on it, and you will be far too distracted to read it.
5. Bring a camera. Many of the cats are used to being photographed, and some will seem to pose.