Queen Village Just Got a Cat Cafe

Kristin Eissler had always said she wanted to help animals and own her own business. This Saturday, June 25, her life's dream will be made a reality with the opening of Kawaii Kitty Cafe at 759 South 4th Street.

"I used to be a fashion designer, I'd travel to other countries, China and Japan had cat cafes for 10 years now. They were always really packed, people seemed to enjoy themselves." And recently, across the Eater universe, cat cafes have been making headlines — few concepts are as cuddly and cute right from the get-go.

"It'll be like two businesses under one roof," says Eissler of Kawaii. The first part in the front — the "cat lounge" — is virtually just an extension of a PAWS adoption center. Just $5 gets you 30 minutes with the cats, adopt one if you wish. Reservations can be made here. The second half of Kawaii, connected by a long hallway to the back, is the cafe, complete with an espresso bar (featuring locally roasted Other Animal coffee), a full food menu of salads, sandwiches, desserts, and baked goods from local spots: Sweet Life, Dottie's Donuts, South Street Bagels, Love Chunk and Miss Rachel's Pantry. Also available for purchase: cat art, cat-themed cosmetics, mugs, cat toys, treats, nip, and other sorts of cat merchandise.

Shop hours will be Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., opening an hour earlier on weekends.