KATTAKAFFIHÚSIÐ
Cuddle rescued cats, sip coffee, and find warmth in Reykjavík's first cat cafe.
About
About KATTAKAFFIHÚSIÐ
Cuddle rescued cats, sip coffee, and find warmth in Reykjavík's first cat cafe.
Experience the heartwarming joy of Icelandic rescued cats in a unique, cozy cafe setting.
Background
History & Background
KATTKAFFIHÚSIÐ holds a special place in Reykjavík's cultural tapestry as Iceland's pioneering cat cafe. Opened in 2018, it was founded with a dual mission: to provide a cozy, welcoming space for locals and tourists alike, and crucially, to offer a temporary home and a public platform for rescued cats awaiting adoption. The concept, popular in other parts of the world, was enthusiastically embraced by Icelanders, known for their deep affection for animals and strong community spirit. The founders meticulously designed the cafe to be a safe and stimulating environment for the cats, with plenty of climbing structures, hiding spots, and toys, alongside comfortable seating for human patrons. Rigorous health and temperament checks ensure the well-being of both the felines and visitors. This unique blend of hospitality and animal welfare quickly established KATTKAFFIHÚSIÐ as a beloved institution, not just a place for coffee, but a heartwarming advocate for animal rescue in the capital.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Reykjavík, KATTKAFFIHÚSIÐ is more than just a cafe; it's a heartwarming haven where you can unwind with a cup of coffee and the company of adorable, adoptable felines. As Iceland's first and only cat cafe, it offers a truly unique experience, blending Icelandic hospitality with a profound commitment to animal welfare. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by the gentle murmur of conversation, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and the sight of several rescued cats gracefully navigating the space. Each cat has its own personality, from playful kittens to serene seniors, all carefully chosen for their friendly disposition. They roam freely, napping on custom-built perches, batting at toys, or perhaps choosing your lap for an impromptu snooze. The menu features a delightful selection of coffee, teas, and delicious Icelandic pastries and light bites. It's the perfect spot to relax after exploring the city, catch up on reading, or simply enjoy the therapeutic presence of these charming creatures. KATTKAFFIHÚSIÐ operates with a strong ethical foundation; all resident cats are from local shelters, and the cafe actively promotes their adoption, ensuring they find loving forever homes. This commitment makes every visit not just enjoyable but also a contribution to a wonderful cause, offering a unique blend of comfort, culture, and compassion.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
The wind howled a familiar Reykjavík tune outside, but inside KATTKAFFIHÚSIÐ, a different melody played – the gentle purr of a contented cat. I pushed open the door, shedding the brisk air, and was immediately enveloped in a cocoon of warmth, the scent of fresh coffee mingling with something undeniably cozy. A sleek black cat, named 'Sól' (Sun), stretched languidly on a windowsill, her eyes half-closed in bliss. As I settled into a worn armchair with a steaming latte, a fluffy ginger tabby, 'Garpur' (Hero), hopped onto the table beside me, demanding a chin scratch with an insistent rub. Time seemed to slow, the city's hustle fading into a distant echo. Here, amidst the soft meows and playful pounces, I found a unique slice of Icelandic comfort, a place where every purr was a tiny, heartwarming story. It wasn't just a cafe; it was a sanctuary, a quiet celebration of companionship in the heart of the city.
💡 Did You Know?
All cats at KATTKAFFIHÚSIÐ are adoptable, giving them a second chance at finding a forever home.
Local Legend
The Whiskered Whisper of Lækjargata
They say KATTKAFFIHÚSIÐ was inspired by a wise old stray cat with luminous green eyes. This cat, known only as "Máninn" (The Moon), would often appear on Lækjargata, observing passersby with an uncanny knowing gaze. One blustery evening, Máninn led a disheartened cafe owner to an empty storefront, meowing a silent promise of warmth and companionship. The owner, touched by the encounter, felt a profound call to create a haven where every forgotten feline could find a home, and every lonely soul could find a purring friend.
Experiences
Tours Near KATTAKAFFIHÚSIÐ
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Engey
Engey is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Njáls saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Reykjavík
Reykjavík is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Harðar saga og Hólmverja", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Skuggabaldur – The Shadow Creature
Skuggabaldur: A phantom dog guarding forgotten paths.
Höfði House – Reykjavík's Haunted Mansion
Höfði House: Reykjavík's historic mansion with a chilling paranormal past.
Location
📍 Location
Discover
Explore Nearby
Places from our database within 1.0 km — all data from Sanity
Loading nearby places…
0 places found within 1.0 km
Plan full itinerary →Explore More
