Catea
A serene Chinese teahouse where you can unwind with gentle Ragdoll cats and authentic brews, no entry fee required.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more cat time
Catea
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more cat time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Chinese teahouse where you can unwind with gentle Ragdoll cats and authentic brews, no entry fee required.
"The cutest ragdoll cats in a Chinese teahouse?! No entry fee, just order a drink and chill!"
🐾 Gentle Cat Interaction
Approach cats calmly and let them come to you. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements.
☕ Minimum Order Required
Each guest must order at least one tea item to enjoy the company of the cats.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ragdoll Cat Cuddles
Throughout the teahouse
Interact with gentle, fluffy Ragdoll cats who are happy to receive pets and attention.
Authentic Chinese Teas
Tea service area
Savor a curated selection of traditional Chinese teas, from fragrant Long Jing to floral rose blends.
Kung Fu Tea Experience
Table service
Engage in a hands-on tea brewing experience, appreciating the aroma and flavor at your own pace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
No Entry Fee, Just Order a Drink!
Reservations Recommended for Cozy Vibes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Gentle Cat Interaction
Approach cats calmly and let them come to you. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements.
☕ Minimum Order Required
Each guest must order at least one tea item to enjoy the company of the cats.
💻 Work-Friendly Space
Power sockets and Wi-Fi are available, making it a great spot for light work or study.
🚫 No Entry Fee
Enjoy the cats without an additional entrance charge; your drink purchase covers your stay.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Gentle Cat Interaction
Approach cats calmly and let them come to you. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements.
☕ Minimum Order Required
Each guest must order at least one tea item to enjoy the company of the cats.
💻 Work-Friendly Space
Power sockets and Wi-Fi are available, making it a great spot for light work or study.
🚫 No Entry Fee
Enjoy the cats without an additional entrance charge; your drink purchase covers your stay.
📅 Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend visits, due to limited seating.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Catea is praised for its unique concept of a cat teahouse with no entry fee, allowing guests to enjoy the company of gentle Ragdoll cats while savoring authentic Chinese teas. Many appreciate the peaceful ambiance and the opportunity to relax or work. However, some visitors feel the tea prices are high for the quality and experience, and a few have noted that the cats can be less sociable during certain hours.
"😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
By far the best cat cafe I've been to!!! I'm surprised there's zero entry fee at all! I pay whatever I order for eat and drink.
Total spending $68 for 2 pax set with
- 2 cold tea (2 cups + 2 bottles)
- 4 snacks for sharing
- 2 cookies (1 each)
Most importantly this cafe has no time limit and owners were all so nice and friendly like the cats! So in return, I spent 3 hours patting the cats, playing with them, sniffing their soft fur and taking my time for the tea and snacks.
I have no comments for the kitties please just see the photos and videos, it vouches for itself.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"
Sammy Sas
"Came here on a Sunday evening with my friends who love cats for a chill time!
Catea is such a beautiful and peaceful Chinese tea house with cats and not a cat cafe, but a cosy space where you can enjoy traditional tea brewing surrounded by a few gentle, resident Ragdoll cats. The vibe is calm, quiet, and perfect for anyone looking to unwind or get some light work done (they have Wi-Fi and power sockets!).
I really enjoyed the Kung Fu Tea Set, a hands-on experience where you brew and appreciate the tea at your own pace. The teas are fragrant, the pastries are delicate, and the staff are friendly and attentive.
A few things to note:
🍵 This is a tea house, not a cat cafe, so please order your tea upon being seated.
🫖 Each guest (including children) is required to order at least one tea item.
👨👩👧 Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and children under 7 are not allowed to enter.
If you’re looking for a quiet escape from the city bustle with great chinese tea, soft purrs, and a serene ambience, Catea is absolutely worth a visit."
Yi Ling
"Advertised as no entrance fee but per pax for just MEH tea is $20~, so expect spending ~$50 for the visit.
Been to other cat cafe in Haji Lane and owner was passionate and initiated conversations and share about the cats.
This cafe is nothing like this, cats are mostly asleep during our visit (4-5pm).
Sadly also saw other guests getting chased out to get in other customers.
The ragdolls were cute, but not as sociable unfortunately. Space was also very small and crowded with approximately 16pax in a 4m by 4m space?
If it was marketed as a cat cafe, it’s a straight fail. And if as a Chinese tea house, also straight fail. Maybe it’s just open by a Chinese and played chinese music, but experience wasnt great.
Wouldn’t recommend at all. Spend that $50 on other places please"
K W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Catea is conveniently located near Upper Thomson MRT Station and Marymount MRT Station. It's a short walk from either station. +2
Limited street parking may be available in the vicinity, but public transport is the most recommended way to reach Catea. +1
Taking the MRT to Upper Thomson or Marymount station and then walking is the most efficient method. +1
Yes, ride-sharing services are a convenient option to get directly to Catea's address at 9 Sin Ming Road.
The entrance is at ground level, but the space inside is cozy. It's advisable to call ahead to discuss specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no separate entrance fee. Your entry is covered by ordering at least one drink per person. +1
Each guest is required to order at least one tea item. +1
Expect to spend around $20 per person for a drink, with set menus for two available for around $68.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as Catea is a small space.
Catea is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, with varying hours. Check their social media for the most up-to-date schedule.
🎫 🐈 Onsite Experience
Catea is home to adorable and gentle Ragdoll cats, known for their soft fur and calm demeanor. +1
Yes, you can pet and interact with the cats. They are generally friendly and enjoy gentle attention.
Please approach the cats calmly and let them initiate interaction. Avoid loud noises and chasing them.
Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and those under 7 are not permitted.
No, Catea is exclusively for their resident cats. Outside pets are not allowed.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Catea offers a selection of authentic Chinese teas, including fragrant Long Jing, Royal Chrysanthemum, and a special rose and lemon blend called 'Love Story'.
Yes, they serve snacks like nuts, preserved dried fruits, and Chinese pastries to complement your tea.
Yes, they offer a 'Kung Fu Tea Set' for a hands-on brewing experience.
The focus is on authentic Chinese teas, but they do offer a caffeine-free 'Love Story' mocktail.
No, outside food and drinks are not permitted. Please enjoy the offerings at Catea.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is allowed, but please be mindful of the cats' comfort and avoid using flash.
Avoid disruptive photography that might scare or stress the cats. Focus on capturing candid moments.
Weekday afternoons might offer a more relaxed environment for capturing photos without disturbing other guests or the cats.
Video recording is generally permitted, but ensure it doesn't interfere with the peaceful atmosphere or the cats' well-being.
The cozy teahouse setting combined with the gentle Ragdoll cats provides many charming photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that the primary focus is on tea, so while kids can enjoy the cats, the tea menu might be more appealing to adults. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to the concept of a teahouse and responsible animal interaction. Ensure your child understands the rules about gentle handling and respecting the cats' space.
💰 Budget Travelers
However, be mindful that the cost of individual teas can add up, and some reviews suggest the overall spend might be higher than anticipated. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to maximize your time and enjoy a more relaxed experience without feeling rushed.
❤️ Couples and Dates
Opting for a tea set can add an interactive element to your date, fostering shared experiences. The peaceful environment is perfect for getting to know each other without the usual distractions of a busy cafe. Remember to book in advance to secure a table for your special outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Catea Experience: More Than Just a Cat Cafe
The absence of an entry fee is a significant draw, with the cost of a drink serving as your admission. This model encourages guests to linger and enjoy the environment without the pressure of hourly charges. However, it's important to note that a minimum order of one tea per person is strictly enforced.
While the cats are a major attraction, the teahouse aspect is equally important. The tea selection is curated, featuring traditional Chinese brews, and often comes with charming descriptions. The overall experience aims to be a tranquil escape, blending the comfort of feline companionship with the refined pleasure of tea culture.
Meet the Ragdolls of Catea
Unlike some more boisterous cat cafes, the cats at Catea are generally observed to be calm and well-cared for. Many visitors comment on how soft their fur is and how they readily come up for attention. This gentle nature contributes significantly to the teahouse's tranquil atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind in their presence.
It's important for visitors to remember that these are living animals with their own routines and preferences. While they are generally sociable, respecting their space and allowing them to approach you is key to a positive interaction. The cats' well-being is paramount, and the teahouse strives to maintain an environment where they can thrive.
Navigating Catea: Practicalities and Etiquette
Secondly, remember the minimum order policy: each guest must purchase at least one tea item. This is how the teahouse operates without an entry fee. While the teas are a highlight, be aware that some reviews suggest the pricing might be on the higher side for the tea itself, leading to a higher overall spend.
For those looking to work or study, Catea offers power sockets and Wi-Fi, making it a viable option for a few hours of productivity. However, be mindful of the cats and the peaceful ambiance. Children under 14 require adult supervision, and those under 7 are not allowed, ensuring a calmer environment for all.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit