Cat-Centric Cafe Brews Community Connections Over Coffee

Guests at PHX Cat Cafe can spend quality time with charming cats like Eva, while enjoying coffee and community with fellow cat enthusiasts (photo courtesy of PHX Cat Cafe).

PHX Cat Cafe, established by Carrie Schwartz and Melissa Pruitt in 2020, is a nonprofit venue located at the intersection of 2nd Street and Garfield in Downtown Phoenix. This innovative space merges a coffee shop with a cat lounge, attracting feline lovers from across the city.

Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of beverages before entering the cozy cat lounge, where adoptable cats roam freely. While many patrons come to play and socialize with the resident cats, the cafe also focuses on facilitating adoptions. In just three years, over 215 cats have found homes through their efforts.

In addition to the adoption services, the cafe hosts various activities like cat-themed yoga and drag bingo nights, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. The lounge can also be rented for private events, adding a unique twist to celebrations.

Schwartz, serving as CEO, along with board members, are actively engaged in trap, neuter, return (TNR) initiatives, which help manage the local cat population. Many adoptable cats originate from these community projects. Furthermore, the cafe offers free cat behavior services to adopters, aiming for smooth transitions to their new homes.

Entry to the cat lounge costs $18 for one hour, funding the café’s operational expenses and care for the cats. While reservations are encouraged, walk-ins may be accommodated if space permits, especially on bustling weekends. Note that groups with members under 13 must make a reservation.

PHX Cat Cafe is situated at 147 E. Garfield St. For inquiries, reach out via email at info@phxcatcafe.org. More information is available at www.phxcatcafe.org.