Richmond's first cat café in 6 years opens
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Meet Bubbleyum. Photo: Courtesy of The Purrfect Bean
Richmond's only cat café is now open.
Why it matters: The city hasn't had one since Central Purrk closed its Shockoe Bottom space in 2019.
Driving the news: The Purrfect Bean opened Friday in the former Westray's ice cream shop, on Lombardy in the Fan, after brief permit delays.
- The all-vegan shop has coffee and teas (including a Marrakesh Mint) on the first floor.
- Upstairs, the cat lounge offers snuggles with adoptable kitties from local foster-based rescue Purring Hearts VA.
How it works: Visits cost $20 on weekdays, $25 on weekends, for a 50-minute session with the cats.
- The fee helps cover food, litter, staff wages and upkeep, per the shop's site.
- Reservations — already booked solid until next Thursday — are highly recommended.
- None are needed if you're just seeking a latte ($6.25).
Fun fact: Their summer menu includes The Francine, a caramelized coconut shaken espresso named after one of Richmond's favorite cats.
If you go: Cat lounge hours are 10am-6pm Wednesday-Sunday.
- For coffee: 9am-7pm.
Thought bubble: I'd happily take multiple allergy pills to hang with these adorable kittens — especially Bubbleyum and Wiggles.