Cat cafes, bistro-styled storefront where felines are encouraged to fraternize with customers and each other, seem to be popping up everywhere.
The Taiwanese trend came over to the United States in 2014, when the first American cat cafe open in California. They've only grown in popularity since and Annapolis, MD now has a cat cafe of its very own.
Annapolis could hardly be considered rural. However, it doesn't have the same, wall-to-wall metropolis feel that many cities with cat cafes exude.
Because of this, Kittens in Cups was able to open in a bigger space than most new feline-based businesses. KiC allows a surprising amount of breathing room, for both its cats and guests. I believe the owners cap reservations to 15 at a time. It's not hard to see the capacity for more people, should a private event demand it.
In case this wasn't wholly apparent, this is not the place for those who don't identify as cat-people. Even if you're only partial to the domesticated assholes (she said with love), you'll be surrounded by people fawning over small furry creatures. If you don't get it, you don't get it.
Like most cafes, the feline residents are available for adoption. As of writing, KiC has facilitated 19 adoptions through the SPCA of Anne Arundel County.
Most health codes don't allow cat cafes to prepare food on-site, so each finds unique ways to sidestep this inconvenience. KiC offers drinks and snacks for sale in the lobby, away from the kitten cuddles (and associated fur tumbleweeds). In short- don't come here focusing on the "cafe" aspect.
For telecommuters, KiC can offer a nice change of pace from your home office or local Starbucks. You're almost guaranteed to have the place to yourself during the week and guests have free access to a secure wifi connection.
Admittedly, it's kind of like telling yourself you're going to get work done while hammocking. It sounds great in theory but you will undoubtedly be less productive than if you sat at a proper desk with no furry distractions. Still, coming to KiC with a laptop and a coffee is the "Treat Yo Self" you deserve.
My biggest piece of advice: guard your heart. Otherwise, you'll blink and find yourself taking home every cat that finds its way onto your lap.
Kittens in Cups
177 Defense Highway
Annapolis, MD 21403