Nekorobi: Tokyo, Japan

Contact Information

Address: 〒170-0013 Tokyo, Toshima, Ikebukuro, 1 Chome−28−1

Phone:  +81 3-6228-0646

Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00 - 22:00

Entrance Fee:  Y800-900/30min; Y1100-1300/60 (drinks inc.)

Ratings

Website / Social Media

Website: nekorobi.jp

Facebook: @catcafenekorobi

Instagram: None

Twitter: @catcafenekorobi

Cat vs Cafe (80/20)

Cute 'n Cuddly:  Review of Nekorobi

Visiting so many cat cafes has proven to have a downside.  

I’m getting a little jaded.

Which is unfortunate because, truly, any cats in any type of setting should be a joy-inducing delight.  But after 70+ visits, pickiness has started to creep into some of my reviews.  I find myself docking points for any hint of cat urine odor, rooms with poor lighting (dark and/or harsh fluorescent overheads), apathetic staff or cups of sludge masquerading as coffee.  See what I mean?

Then, along comes a place like Nekorobi, which hit me like a fresh breeze. 

My initial impression of the cafe was that, while pleasant and odor-free, it had no special features that stood out.  But then I stepped inside and was pleasantly surprised by a super cheerful attendant, who seemed genuinely passionate about the cats, yet gave me the details without a hint of overbearance.  Café workers attitudes really make a difference in first impressions and this set the tone for a wonderful above-average afternoon.

Once my fee was paid (900 yen for 30 minutes including unlimited free drinks from a coffee machine), I was shown the coffee machine in between receiving tips on which cats like belly rubs and which like to chase string.   There was a mention of a kitten that would make a playful and popular appearance later in the hour.

I particularly loved the cats here.  Plenty of them (twenty total) and all manner of breeds.  Most were incredibly social and many enjoyed playing.  A few were dressed up in goofy outfits, which I tend to frown upon as I can’t imagine they like it, but all seemed good natured about the whole thing.

I stayed for an hour watching gleeful (and well-behaved) children play with the younger cats and gently pet the older ones.  The smiles on their faces were priceless and I remember thinking this is what makes cat cafes worthwhile endeavors- they create pure joy. 

The vibe at Café Nekorobi is a happy and relaxed one and while there are few bells and whistles, the simplicity means you can focus on the adorable cats. 

Date Visited:  6/4/17