Last Updated on 15 November 2023 by Vanessa
When you step into Le Chat Mallows, a cat café in Paris, you enter a whimsical world where coffee meets feline friends. Named after the French sweets “Chamallows,” this unique establishment immerses visitors in a captivating experience. Filled with cozy cat homes, luxury cat beds, cat-themed art, and an impressive array of cat breeds. Le Chat Mallows is home to 17 (!) resident cats, each with their own captivating personality. From the regal British Shorthair to the playful Cornish Rex and the enchanting Sphynx, the cat café boasts a diverse and charming feline crew.
My experience at Le Chat Mallows Café in Paris
A café dedicated to cats
Le Chat Mallows Café, as stated on their menu cover, is “Un lieu dédié au chats où vous n’êtes que l’invité!” which translates to “A place dedicated to cats where you are only a guest!” This sentiment encapsulates the philosophy of the cat café, where the wellbeing and happiness of the cats take precedence over the comfort of the customers.
Le Chat Mallows upholds strict rules to ensure the cats’ safety and contentment. Visitors are required to disinfect their hands before entering, refrain from picking up the cats, avoid disturbing them while they sleep, and ensure that children do not bother them.
The café staff consists of veterinary assistants and cat specialists who are well-equipped to handle the cats’ needs, including administering medication and trimming their claws. Their constant doting and care for the cats may seem silly to some, but it creates an environment where these feline residents truly thrive. It’s obvious that the cats here are so much happier than at Le café des chats, the other cat café of Paris, where the well-being of customers is put before that of the cats.
The cats of Le Chat Mallows Café
It’s a motley crew of breeds: British Shorthair, Cornish Rex, Sphynx, Oriental, Ragdoll, European, British Longhair. Some were bought, some were adopted. The sphynx cat Yoda, for example, once belonged to a foreigner who wanted Le Chat Mallows to adopt his cat when he left Paris.
My favorite cats of the café were Jerico and Jade.
Catified interior
The interior decoration of Le Chat Mallows Café is completely “catified,” meaning it is intentionally designed and furnished to cater to the comfort, stimulation, and well-being of the resident feline population. This concept, popularized by cat behaviorist and expert Jackson Galaxy, acknowledges the importance of creating spaces that align with cats’ natural instincts and behaviors. In a cat café context, a catified interior involves thoughtful design elements that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space but also prioritize the needs of the resident cats.
This approach recognizes that cats are highly territorial creatures with specific requirements for mental and physical engagement. In Le Chat Mallows Café, the “catified” interior includes a variety of climbing structures, perches, scratching posts, hiding spots, and interactive toys that mimic the hunting and play behaviors that are essential to a cat’s overall well-being. These features not only provide entertainment and stimulation for the cats but also offer visitors a chance to witness their playful and natural behaviors up close.
Le Chat Mallows Café has ome of the cutest drinks I’ve encountered in a café. Some of the specialties include Dream of Cats (strawberry-flavored milk with cotton candy, Chantilly, almonds, and marshmallows) and Choco Sangria (hot chocolate-flavored sangria, cinnamon, and Chantilly).
However, there are two big problems with the menu of Le Chat Mallows Café.
The first problem is the food. The portions are extremely small and the taste uninspired (my friend and I tried the Tête de Chat, which are head-shaped tortillas with salad).
The second problem is the price of everything. You pay $7,80 for a simple cup of hot cocoa and $9,80 for flavored milk. I get it, though. The money goes to the maintenance and wellbeing of the cats. But still. Le Chat Mallows is the most expensive cat café I’ve visited so far, and I’ve been to more than 20.
Le Chat Mallows’ part in the adoption process
Le Chats Mallows is first and foremost a café, but they also aim to be a space where cat enthusiasts and aficionados can come together to share their love for these little felines. However, unlike many other cat cafés (such as Le New Chattouille in Brussels and Espai de Gats in Barcelona), these cats are not available for adoption. They do serve as a showcase for the life of living alongside cats. Surprisingly, a considerable number of their customers, at the end of their visit, seem inclined to take the leap and adopt a cat. Le Chat Mallows Café strives to assist them in this journey, particularly in the adoption process, directing them towards animal associations.
Practical information:
Address
Le Chats Mallows Café, 30, rue des Volontaires, 15ième arrondissement, Paris, France.
Opening hours
Le Chat Mallows Café is open from Wednesday to Sunday between 12:00 pm and 09:00 pm.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Reservations
Reservation is obligatory. You can book your spot through their website https://resa.chatmallowscafe.com/book/table.
How to get there?
To get to Le Chats Mallows Café, you can take the following steps:
- Take Line 12 (Métro 12) in the direction of Mairie d’Issy.
- Exit at the “Volontaires” metro station.
- Exit the metro station and head southeast on Rue de Vaugirard toward Rue de la Croix Nivert.
- Turn right onto Rue des Volontaires.
- Le Chats Mallows Café is located at Rue des Volontaires number 30.
Exploring the 15th Arrondissement: must-see attractions in the vicinity of Le Chat Mallows Café
Beyond the captivating world of Le Chat Mallows, the 15th arrondissement of Paris offers a plethora of must-see attractions for visitors to enjoy. From iconic landmarks to charming parks, here are some notable destinations worth exploring in this vibrant district.
- Eiffel Tower: No visit to Paris would be complete without a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Located on the Champ de Mars in the 15th arrondissement, this architectural masterpiece stands as a symbol of the city. Ascend to the top for breathtaking views of Paris or simply admire its grandeur from below.
- Parc André Citroën: For a moment of tranquility amidst the bustling city, head to Parc André Citroën. This modern park spans over 14 hectares and offers beautifully landscaped gardens, fountains, and green spaces to relax in. Take a stroll, have a picnic, or enjoy the panoramic views from the park’s tethered hot air balloon.
- Musée Bourdelle: Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Musée Bourdelle, dedicated to the works of sculptor Antoine Bourdelle. Housed in Bourdelle’s former studio, the museum showcases his sculptures, drawings, and personal collection. Explore the artist’s creative process and admire his monumental sculptures in this intimate and inspiring setting.
- Parc des Expositions de la Porte de Versailles: As one of the largest exhibition centers in Paris, the Parc des Expositions de la Porte de Versailles hosts a variety of trade shows, exhibitions, and events throughout the year. Check the schedule to see if any exciting events align with your visit, offering a chance to delve into various industries, from fashion and technology to food and art.
- Aquaboulevard de Paris: Perfect for families or those seeking aquatic adventures, Aquaboulevard de Paris is a vast water park offering a range of attractions. Enjoy thrilling water slides, wave pools, and relaxing spa areas. The park also features a cinema complex, fitness center, and numerous dining options, making it a fun-filled day out for all ages.
- Balard Park: Escape the urban bustle and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Balard Park. This green oasis provides a peaceful retreat with its lush lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and shady trees. Take a leisurely walk, read a book, or simply enjoy the serene ambiance of this charming park.
- Musée Pasteur: For those interested in scientific history, a visit to the Musée Pasteur is a must. Housed in the former residence of Louis Pasteur, the renowned scientist and pioneer of microbiology, the museum offers insights into his life and groundbreaking discoveries. Explore Pasteur’s laboratory, study his scientific instruments, and learn about his significant contributions to medicine and biology.
- Georges Brassens Park: Georges Brassens Park is a hidden gem in the 15th arrondissement, named after the famous French singer-songwriter. This picturesque park boasts lush greenery, peaceful ponds, and charming sculptures. Take a leisurely walk, have a picnic, or simply find a bench to enjoy the serene surroundings.
Conclusion: Is Le Chat Mallows Café worth visiting?
Le Chat Mallows Café is a GREAT experience for everyone who is going gaga over cats. You need to be cat-obsessed to appreciate this place, though, because everyone is truly fuzzing over the cats like crazy and the number of felines and cat-themed decorations can be a bit overwhelming if you’re not into cats. It’s truly a cat café unlike any other. You don’t just go there for a drink; it’s a café you have to experience. The food is also the cutest I’ve come across in a cat café, but the high price point is just not worth it in my opinion.
Looking for more attractions and activities for cat lovers in Paris? Check out our Ultimate Cat Enthusiasts’ Guide to Paris.
Text and photos by Vanessa Morgan.
English version / version française
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