In Paris's 15th arrondissement, Chat Mallows Café is a tearoom where around fifteen cats roam freely among visitors. The idea is not to pursue an animal to pet it at any cost: the cats have areas where they can retreat and decide for themselves whether to interact.
A café designed first for the cats
The venue was fitted out for their welfare, with resting spaces out of public reach and separation between the animals and the food-preparation area. Resident cats vary in breed, age and temperament, giving each visit a different pace.
What to know before visiting
Booking is compulsory to limit visitor numbers. Children under age 6 are not admitted; between ages 6 and 12, they must be actively supervised by an adult. Visitors must also avoid chasing, picking up or waking a cat that wants to be left alone.
A venue centred on feline interaction
Drinks and sweet or savoury snacks accompany the visit, but the main draw is watching and meeting the cats. Advertised 2026 hours are generally Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 to 20:00.
Chat Mallows Café stands out for its unspoken rule: the cats decide whether to meet you. That is what makes the experience more like a genuine encounter with animals than a themed setting.
