NEKOMATA - Cat Cafe — Restaurant in Bordeaux

My partner and I had a long weekend in Bordeaux. As we were exploring we came across Nekomata. As we walked in we were advised that they were full and a booking would be necessary, they were very accommodating with this. When we arrived for our visit the rules were highlighted, all make sense, such as cats consenting to touch/play. There are lockers provided at no extra price where you can leave shoes, coats and bags. I chose to take my bag inside which is allowed. They provide little spa type slippers which made me feel even more comfortable. It's also nice knowing that the cats are more protected by this. The vibe was so lovely and calming inside, with decor and music adding to the atmosphere. Please note that due to the Japanese theme some seating is floor level. My partner and I both loved this, we found it comfortable, and actually it made me feel closer to the cats as they walked by. Regular height seating became available shortly after we arrived and we were advised that we could move if we wished, though we chose not to. They had dairy free milk here which isn't often the case in France, so this was a lovely bonus for me. We enjoyed our drinks, and the sweet snacks were tasty too. My partner spent time reading one of their lovely books on offer, and I chose to draw. We got to stroke a few of the cats, but please be aware that cats are a lesson in consent, and one can't walk in expecting to have a cat on their lap the entire time. You can try playing with the cats, or extend a hand for strokes and they may accept or decline 🙂 For animal lovers/cat lovers this is perfect as you can visit Nekomata without worrying for the welfare of the cats. The toilet was just right, very lovely decoration and clean. There was plenty of loo roll. Hand drying is done with small towels (the kind of thing I use as a face cloth) which are left in a laundry bin to be washed and reused. I felt that this was a lovely combination for hygiene and environment. When we came to leaving Sebastian engaged in a very pleasant conversation with us, and also provided some recommendations. I think the cost of the visit was very reasonable, do keep in mind the fluffy babies and the care and food they need. I would 100% recommend Nekomata for anyone looking for somewhere relaxing and joyful 😊 Rowdy parties are probably better...

Very cute cats and an adorable cafe! 10€ for 1 hour, 13€ for 1.5 hours and 16€ for 2 hours. This comes with a free drink of your choice, so the price isn't too bad.

The cats are pretty and generally friendly, but don't expect them to come up to you and jump in your lap. Some of them didn't really want to be petted and some were okay with being petted if you went to them. Pay attention to body language or ask an employee if you are unsure. They also liked playing and that was an easier way to interact with the cats. Otherwise, lots of opportunities for cute photos of the cats.

The cafe is clearly designed with cats in mind but also has lots of Japanese elements, like a true Japanese cat cafe. Lots of manga available in French. A great place to relax with some manga or your own reading.

I didn't have a reservation but also came on a weekday. I would probably recommend making a...

I don’t think I have ever been anywhere quite as relaxing as this Japanese inspired cat cafe. Home to 9 rescue cats, mostly from the same litters and adopted at a time where they grew together, the inhabitants of this cafe were mostly sleeping. The ones who were up and about came to say hello or stole your warmed seat when you got up to explore the rows of books about their feline friends. Clean and well maintained, you are served a drink for your one hour slot with the furries. It’s €10 entry, drink included and booking is recommended. We went on a quiet, rainy Monday so no need to do so but weekends may be different. There are rules like don’t overstep the cars consent or be loud which is totally normal for a cat owner but good to take heed if with children or not used to having them as pets. Don some slippers, take a seat and observe these...