River Kitty Cafe - Peoria, Illinois

Nono Rodriguez

Este lugar es terapéutico. Y los cafés super ricos, puedes consumir mientras estás con los gatitos. Son 13$ x hora y es por reservacion.

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Needed some coffee and just happened to be near River Kitty cafe so decided to stop in for the first time. Upon walking in, I noticed that it was a bit small, not many tables for sitting if you didn't want to be in the room with the cats. If I remember correctly, there was only two tables, and then there were bar stools where you could sit and watch the cats through the glass. I noticed there was about nine people or so in the room where the cats were and they were just sitting around and enjoying the company. The cats were very comfortable and some were taking a nap, but you can tell that they enjoy the visits. I feel that it was a little bit odd of a layout for example it was a coffee shop and it seemed like the area for the coffee was very small. I also think that adding some warm tones of paint like maybe tan walls and one burgundy accent wall, that would really make the space more inviting and comfortable. The room was divided with a closed door where the cats stayed, but quite understandably there would have to be a door that way the cats wouldn't run out when the door opened. It was $6 for a half an hour and $12 for 1 hour to sit with the cats.
The young man at the counter was very polite and took my order for my latte. The coffee was good but the syrup pretty much stayed settled at the bottom of the cup. However, it got the job done, and I got the energy that I needed to get through the afternoon. If I'm in the area I'll probably stop back by and grab another coffee.

Evan Moushon

This was a pretty cool place! Helps locals have something nice to do while also helping the local population of stray and surrender cats. It’s nice that you can get some coffee and spend some time around cats if someone in your household is allergic or your apartment doesn’t allow pets.

The only concern I had was that some of the kids kept forcing kittens into situations that they weren’t comfortable with. Some of the cats maybe need break times they can take away from the kids to rest a bit.

All in all, this place is still a big net positive for the community, and I hope they remain here for many years to come.

Ashley Cetinel

I love the concept of cat cafés as seen in Japan, Taiwan, and other places around the world and I’m happy to see more of them popping up in the U.S.
One of the employees informed me that they opened up in March 2024, so their business is still relatively new.

The employee preparing drinks and handling reservations was very kind and was happy to talk about the cats that are up for adoption. The overall atmosphere of the café is warm and cozy with a surprisingly wide variety of beverages.

With that said, I did notice a couple of things that I think could use some improvement. I think the minimum age for entry should be at least 10 as opposed to 7. I observed many children (and teens) handling kittens past their comfort zone with many of the kittens crying to be let go. I think there should be an employee in the room with guests at all times to ensure that none of the cats are being overstimulated or mishandled by children. I’m not sure if there is anyone keeping track of the length of time guests are spending in the room, but it can start to feel a little crowded once more people enter.

Secondly, while I do appreciate that there is a cat tree in the corner for the cats to retreat, I think a separate room for the cats to leave the guest area would be a better idea. It seems that many children were pulling cats from the cat tree despite the them wanting to have some alone time.

I really do love this place and think it’s wonderful that Peoria is helping these kitties find loving forever homes. I just wanted to contribute some of my thoughts and feedback which may or may not be implemented in the future.

Overall, River Kitty Café is a nice establishment and I look forward to returning when we are back in town!

jaycee calabrese

Great service, and the workers are so kind and make the cafe a great experience. The cats were all very friendly, and the workers truly do care for them. They had lint rollers, hand sanitizer, odor spray, and it was very clean and well kept. I had a blast!

Colleen C

Thoughtfully designed space and so accommodating to the kitties! We had a great time with all the cats and humans we encountered! Plus the lemonade is delicious! We will definitely be back!

Danielle Cozzola

Easy 5 stars! Staff are kind and care about the kitties so much. I got to visit with so many cute and friendly cats! Great place!! Iced chai latte was also decent.

Brandy Thatcher

Owner is very kind and welcoming. Cats have a great lounge and are well cared for. Great selection of drinks. Very clean and well organized. Such a fun, relaxing space to spend some time with the cats.