Cat Cafes that Feature Exotic Breeds
Cat cafes have been a thing for nearly three decades now, offering cat lover’s a fun space to sip coffee while surrounded by chill, purring house cats, but a growing trend is taking this experience to the next level. We’re talking, of course, about cat cafes that showcase exotic and “wild” cat breeds.
From the sleek, leopard-like Bengals to the towering, elegant Maine Coons and even rare servals with their African roots, these cat cafes cater to those looking for more than the typical tabby encounter. Usually spread across Asia, in places like Japan and the Philippines, where cat culture (and perhaps a more lax regulatory environment) thrives, these places take the original cat cafe idea to the next level with the addition of pedigreed and wild-inspired cats, often housed in thoughtfully designed spaces that highlight their unique traits.
In this article, we’ll explore standout businesses around the world that house exotic breeds, sharing what makes them special, from their uncommon kitties to their innovative approaches, giving an exciting peek into a niche that’s redefining the cat cafe experience.
Bengal Brew
Located in a somewhat remote part of in the Cubao district of Quezon City, Philippines, Bengal Brew stands out as the world’s first cat cafe dedicated exclusively to the mesmerizing Bengal breed. The cafe has a fun, jungle-themed vibe where visitors can drink some coffee while enjoying the hijinks of 18 Bengal cats at play in the structures above.
Bengal Brew interior courtesy of @worldsbestpetcafe on Facebook
The cafe shares its space with Wolf & Bear, a dog cafe, creating a dual pet paradise that caters to animal lovers of all stripes. Founded by Don Michael Perez, a television and film director with a passion for Bengals sparked by his first cat, Amir, Bengal Brew opened its doors to provide a rare opportunity to interact with these exotic, leopard-spotted felines known for their wild appearance and playful energy.
Roblox the Bengal & Lukas the Serval, courtesy of @worldsbestpetcafe on Facebook
Open daily from noon to 9 PM (extending to 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays), the cafe requires a PHP 100 annual membership and certain hygiene rules to guarantee a clean, safe environment for its cats. From the moment you step inside, the lush decor and the sight of Bengals lounging on cat trees or prowling elevated walkways transport you to a mini feline wilderness that is unlike most “regular” cat cafes you’ve probably been to.
Cafe Surin
Situated in the serene hills of Okinawa, Japan, Cafe Surin provides a unique experience where visitors can dine alongside two captivating serval cats, Joka and Rurusu. Housed in a custom glass enclosure, Surin showcases these exotic African natives which known for their slender frames, spotted coats, and remarkable agility, giving guests a rare glimpse into the wild without risking that they interfere with your meal!
Joka and Rurusu, courtesy of @cafe_surin on Instagram
Opened after a year-long DIY transformation of a former storage garage, the cafe’s modern, cozy interior reflects the staff’s passion for cats, complemented by a menu of homemade delights like charbroiled hamburgers, garlic shrimp, and seasonal bento boxes, all enhanced by fresh eggs from the on-site Surin Farm.
Operating weekdays from 11 AM to 4 PM (last order 3 PM) and weekends until 6 PM (last order 5 PM), with closures on the second and fourth Tuesdays, Cafe Surin is more about emphasizing its tasty, farm-fresh menu rather than its two serval mascots. They’re more like beautiful accents to the cafe rather than its main attraction. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience while you’re in Japan, Surin is definitely a standout destination for those in Japan’s southernmost prefecture.
Cat Cafe JaLaLa
Just a short stroll from Akihabara Station in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Cat Cafe JaLaLa is a charming little spot where visitors can unwind with a roster of pedigreed cats, including striking Abyssinians and majestic Maine Coons. Known for housing around 17 felines, including some of the largest domestic breeds you’ll encounter, this cafe distinguishes itself in Tokyo’s competitive cat cafe scene by showcasing these exotic beauties in a cozy, perch-filled playroom.
Courtesy of @nekojalala on X (Twitter)
Open daily from 11 AM to 7 PM (last entry 6:30 PM), JaLaLa charges ¥600 for the first 30 minutes plus a required drink order (starting at ¥350), with optional cat treats like tuna available to encourage interaction with its often aloof residents. The intimate space is capped at about 10 guests, and has a certain quirky charm (think ABBA tunes and a hint of cat scent) with a welcoming staff who provide English cat bios. Its definitely a spot that welcomes both tourists and locals alike who are seeking a relaxing reprieve with some kitties amidst Akihabara’s electric buzz.
Y Cat Cafe
Located near Hapjeong metro in Seoul, South Korea, Y Cat Cafe (formerly known as Gio) is a hidden treasure for lovers of exotic cat breeds. Finding it may require some persistence, as address variations might lead you slightly astray, but spotting the sign on Hongik-ro will let you know you’ve found the right place. Situated on the 3rd floor, this cafe has a 9000 won (~$8) entrance fee, which includes a drink like a latte.
Courtesy of @ycatcafe on Facebook
What sets Y Cat Cafe apart from your run of the mill cat cafe is its impressive roster of nearly 40 cats, featuring exotic breeds such as the Somali, Maine Coon, and Russian Blue, alongside the more familiar American Shorthair. Between the Somali’s fox-like elegance, the Maine Coon’s imposing stature, and the Russian Blue’s shimmering silver coat, you’re bound to find a favorite amongst their stable of kitties. Upon entry, guests wash their hands and trade shoes for slippers, stepping into a spacious area designed for comfort. Cardboard cat beds dot the room, often occupied by snoozing kitties, while ample space allows the cats to roam freely.
Courtesy of @ycatcafe on Facebook
While many cats nap, the awake ones waste no time trying to get your attention, with some climbing onto laps within minutes or posing like seasoned models for photos. The atmosphere is usually relaxed and not super busy, letting you play with the cats without having to compete with a crowd. Although the staff diligently cleans and maintains the cat area, a faint odor lingers, but its a minor drawback compared to the joy of getting to mingle with so many unique, friendly and exotic breeds.
Catfe Vietnam
If you’re a cat lover heading to Vietnam, Catfe is a place you absolutely can’t skip. With four spots across across Ho Chi Minh City, this cat cafe chain has won over both locals and travelers. It’s got a rep for its roomy, spotless cat lounges and an awesome mix of breeds that’ll steal your heart.
Courtesy of @catfevn on Facebook
When you walk into one of their locations, you’re met with a colorful and well-ventilated space that’s super inviting and clean. Unlike some cat cafes that might not be the most hygienic, Catfe seems to stay on top of things to make sure the cats are healthy and happy while making sure the space feels comfy for everyone. The setup is smart too, with cozy seats for you and plenty of space for the cats to wander, play, or snooze in their favorite cubby or cat tree.
Catfe’s got an impressive lineup that includes Somalis, Maine Coons, and cute Scottish Folds. Every cat’s got its own vibe, and they’re all super friendly and chill around people. The staff are total cat nerds (in the best way), always happy to chat about the breeds or share tips on how to hang with the kitties respectfully.
Courtesy of @catfevn on Facebook
Catfe also doubles a pet shop and spa rolled into one. You can pick up cat gear or even book a grooming session for your own kitty. Thinking about adopting? They’ve got you covered there too, helping connect cats with forever homes in the area. If you’re in Vietnam, Catfe is a must-visit.
Cat Cafe Mocha Okayama
Perched on the fifth floor of Aeon Mall in Kita-ku, Okayama City, Cat Cafe Mocha Okayama offers a plush outlet where visitors can mingle with over 20 pedigreed cats, including exotic breeds like Bengals, Maine Coons, and Abyssinians.
Part of the Mocha chain known for its clean, well-run spaces across Japan, this particular spot stands out for its diverse bunch of pedigreed kitties, featuring spotted Bengals and fluffy Maine Coons, all roaming around a thoughtfully designed lounge with cat trees and perches. Open daily from 10 AM to 9 PM (last entry 8:30 PM) with no reservations required, the cafe welcomes guests aged three and up (children under 12 need a guardian) for a starting rate of ¥600 for 30 minutes, plus a drink from their unlimited bar included after the first half-hour.
Courtesy of @mocha.okayama Instagram
Whether you’re savoring a coffee while watching the cats’ twice-daily feeding frenzy or treating them to limited-edition snacks, this cafe delivers a polished, breed-rich experience that celebrates the allure of exotic felines in the heart of Okayama Prefecture.
While this list isn’t exhaustive, these cafes definitely stand out as top-tier spots for encountering exotic and borderline wild cat breeds. The Mocha Cat Cafe chain in Japan has dozens of locations like the one in Okayama, packed with pedigreed kitties of all sorts, but places with servals and other wild breeds are far rarer and trickier to come by. They exist, sure, but most aren’t cafes and they’re more likely specialized exhibits, breeders, or private setups.
If you’re itching to visit a cat cafe with exotic flair, your best bet is to plan a trip to Japan or the Philippines, where the rules are a bit looser and the cat culture’s in full swing. For those stuck stateside or in Europe, you might have to settle for the occasional Maine Coon or Bengal at a local spot as servals and their wild kin are mostly off the menu thanks to tight regulations. Either way, these cafes show how far the cat cafe scene has come, elevating the typical chill cafe experience with a peek at some seriously cool cats!