Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium- Londons first cat café

by Startacus Admin

There’s an old saying that goes “Sometimes the craziest ideas are the best ones”- or something along those general lines - and here at startacus we are certainly no stranger to weird and wonderful ideas… but this one left even us somewhat amazed.

Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium- is the fittingly majestic title bestowed upon London’s most bizarre cafe newcomer. The twist (as you have probably guessed) is that this café is full of cats.

Before you start checking your calendars, yes it was April Fools Day earlier this week, and no we aren’t pulling your leg…

The rather regal name belies a very simple concept- visitors can enjoy a lovely cup of tea, perhaps a biscuit, browse a newspaper in convivial decor whilst surrounded by a group of cats (which we are informed is actually known as a “glaring”.)

We must admit that we have never been particularly partial to the fancies and frolics of our feline friends- but on reflection we have to admit that Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium brings a very welcome change to the local café circuit.

Firstly, we know that for those who are otherwise inclined than ourselves, the prospect of having a relaxed cup of tea whilst being pawed by a dozen cats is nothing short of heavenly. Indeed, the Emporium has proved such an exciting notion that since opening just over a month ago, they have seen a packed diary, taken thousands of reservations and are booked solid for months to come. So it's great news for Lauren Pears and Anna Kogan (the innovative self-starters behind this unusual enterprise) but also rather good news for the cats as well.

We were very pleased to learn that this particular ‘glaring’ has a dozen members-Adamska, Artemis, Biscuit, Carbonelle, Donnie, Indiana, Loki, Mue, Petra, Romeo and Wookie. They are all rescue cats whose owners were leaving the country but have now found a new home thanks to Lauren and Anna’s enterprising spirit and determination in bringing their dream to life.

“I just want to make it a happy place to go,” says Lauren “When people leave the café feeling cheerful, it feels like the business is making a difference.”

So- Happy cats… happy customers ...happy self starters - what more could you ask for?

We doff our imaginary cap to Lauren and Anna for bringing their dream to life and hope that the phenomenal success they have seen in the first few months continues for years to come.

Why not visit the Lady Dinah's Cat Emporium website for more details!

If you are thinking of opening a café of your own (traditional or otherwise) you might like to take a look at our guide which has loads of tips and advice to get you off to a great start.

OR take a look at some of these recent quirky things we have come across.

MurMurs- Interactive office furniture

OBI- Billboard renovation campaign


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Published on: 3rd April 2014