What we're sipping: Lattes with a side of whiskers
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This new friend was interested in my beverage. Photo: Alex Golden/Axios
Even if the coffee were terrible at Third Space Coffee, I wouldn't care because they let you play with cats.
☕️ Yes, but: The coffee is actually good, and I caught the fall menu.
- The Here's Johnny! Marshmallow Fluff ($6.50-$7) is a latte with marshmallow and hazelnut for those who want something iced and sweet, and the Apple Dumplin Cortado ($4.25) is a fall twist for those of us who like a hot espresso drink all year but with a little caramel and apple syrup this time of year.
- Appropriately, everything at the café is vegan. It also serves smoothies, tea, baked goods and a couple burritos.
🐈 State of play: Third Space Coffee is inside Best Friends Pet Resource Center in Bentonville, which serves as a shelter with adoptable cats and dogs.
- You're welcome to drop by and hang out at the café regardless of whether you're looking to adopt — although resisting is a feat, even for those of us who already have three cats at home.
- As long as you keep a lid on your drink, you can drop into the adjacent cat room and give the kitties some love. The setup includes elaborate cat trees, gyms and beds, and the residents appear to appreciate the attention from strangers. Or walk downstairs and try to resist some puppy dog eyes.
🐶 The vibe: Animal shelters can be depressing places, but Best Friends previously told Axios it was seeking to be the "future of animal shelters" with a space that involves the community.
- I'd say the openness of the building — the indoor and outdoor seating, the animals not being hidden away, the tall ceilings and giant windows — is accomplishing that. A café is a smart touch to bring in people.
🐾 The big picture: Best Friends is part of a national nonprofit organization, Best Friends Animal Society, that advocates against killing animals in shelters.
- The Bentonville center offers myriad services, including veterinary care and a pet food and supplies pantry for those struggling to provide for their pets.
🏠 Zoom out: The center offers fostering and volunteering opportunities. Adoptions range from free to $100 for cats and free to $150 for dogs, and are free for volunteers and fosters.
📍 Stop by: 8:30am-4pm Tuesday through Friday, 7:30am-4pm Saturday and Sunday at 1312 Melissa Drive in Bentonville.