NEKO Cat Cafe Bellingham — Restaurant in Bellingham

Excellent place to visit if you're entertaining a young niece, nephew, etc. that knows what they shouldn't do with (or are used to handling) small animals. Have to schedule your visit, 45 minute blocks. They serve some alcohol, but due to fair enough reasons, nothing that isn't in a can or bottle. On the upside for non-alcoholic beverages though, it's one of the only places outside of a vending machine in Japan I've seen cans of Royal Milk Tea, and I've looked. Avoid honey lavender hard cider- dreadful. There's a pillar in the center of the place with pictures identifying each cat, and listing them as residents, visitors looking to be adopted, and so on. Simple rules: 1.) Don't pick any of them up 2.) When you go to the bathroom (if, I guess), if you're followed through the door, turn back around, and if they don't follow, hail an employee. 3.) Don't go through the door in the NW corner of the place. Easy to notice, it's got a pet door so they can have a private area. Everything else is common sense. The floor has pits and bench seats, pillows and hammocks for the cats, so you'll be shoeless (wear socks) upon entry. There are toys laying haphazardly about, some nylon tunnels, bean bags, and other such stimuli if you sight any showing interest. If you get a little bite that doesn't draw blood when you're rubbing a cat's cheeks? It means "do that harder", not "go away". They're used to socializing. Don't keep lots of junk in your pockets if you don't need it - it's only 45 minutes, and people dropping stuff can really bother some cats. They do not (at least at present) sell nekomimi, so bring your own if...

I’ve always seen this place online and finally had the chance to go with my daughter—and it did not disappoint! There is a donation required to enter, which goes right back to the cats, and they also have specials on certain days (like Senior Day, College Day, etc.), so be sure to check their hours. Each visit is for one hour, starting at the top of the hour, so we waited about seven minutes, which was no problem at all.

They ask you to sanitize your hands for the safety of the cats (and you), which makes sense, and they kindly ask guests not to pick up the cats. That didn’t stop them from hopping on us, though—the minute we sat down, one jumped right on my lap and clung to me, which was pure delight! There are around 25 cats, some permanent residents and some available for adoption. They even give you treats to feed the cats, which immediately gets their attention.

The café itself is very clean (they were actively tidying while we were there), and it does not smell like cats at all. There are plenty of toys, comfy spaces for the cats, and friendly staff who clearly care about both the animals and the visitors. They serve food and drinks—I had a delicious coffee—and also sell cat products like toys, shampoos, and fun accessories for both pets and humans. Restrooms are available as well, which is a nice convenience.

This is a wonderful place to bring children to safely interact with cats, or for anyone considering adoption. I had such a beautiful experience and will absolutely be back. Thank you, Neko Café, for creating such a warm and welcoming space for...

I recently visited Neko Cat Café, and I can’t say enough wonderful things about this adorable place! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere created by both the staff and the resident cats. The café itself is beautifully designed, cozy, and clean, with plenty of spots for cats and guests to relax and interact.

The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, taking the time to explain the house rules and making sure both visitors and cats were comfortable and safe. It’s clear they genuinely care about the well-being of the cats and are passionate about creating a positive experience for everyone.

The highlight of my visit was spending time with Luna, one of the resident cats. She is such a sweetheart—friendly, playful, and full of personality! Luna made the experience unforgettable, curling up beside me for snuggles and following me around for pets. It was so heartwarming to see how well-loved and cared for the cats are here.

For cat lovers, Neko Cat Café is a little slice of heaven. It’s not just a place to enjoy some feline companionship but also an opportunity to learn about the cats’ stories and, if you’re looking, potentially adopt a new furry friend. The café provides a fantastic environment for both the cats and the people who visit.

Whether you’re a long-time cat enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing and unique outing, I highly recommend stopping by. I left feeling calm, happy, and already planning my next visit. Luna and the other sweet cats make this place an...