I have always believed that photography is about capturing connection. Usually, I am looking for the spark between a parent and a child or the quiet bond of a couple, but yesterday I found a different kind of magic at Espurresso Cat Cafe Lawrence KS. I spent an hour visiting the cafe, and I am still thinking about the peace I found inside the “Purrlor” and the Pet Photography Purrfection.
The cafe opened in May 2023 as a joint effort between Mary Costello and Brittanie Sinisgalli. Mary is an artist, and you can feel that influence the moment you walk in. The space is fresh, clean, and filled with local art. It does not feel like a typical rescue environment. Instead, it feels like a cozy living room where the residents happen to have whiskers.
You are welcome to take your beverages and bakery items into the Cat “Purrlor”, or enjoy them in the cafe before joining the friendly felines in the separate kitty paradise.
More Than Just a Place to Adopt
Mary explained something to me that really resonated. While they have helped countless cats find “furever” homes through the Lawrence Humane Society, the mission goes deeper than adoption.
The Purrlor is a sanctuary for people who need a moment of reprieve. It is a place where you can enjoy a furry connection without the guilt of walking away from a cage. Don’t feel like you need to be in a position to adopt a new family member in order to visit. You are helping socialize these sweet animals just by being there and offering a few scritches.
The Charm of the Senior Kitty
One thing that sets Espurresso apart is their dedication to senior cats. They specifically request older residents from the shelter. Kittens are adorable, but as a new kitten owner myself, I know exactly how “zoomie” and underfoot they can be. The older cats at the cafe offer a much calmer, soulful energy. They also are less likely to get adopted quickly, so it’s wonderful that they have such a special foster situation while they wait for their furever homes.
The adoption structure here is incredibly thoughtful:
- Seniors for Seniors: Cats over ten years old are free for senior citizens to adopt.
- Adult Adoptions: Adult cats are sixty dollars, while kittens range up to one hundred and twenty-five.
- Full Care: Every cat comes up to date on vaccinations, microchipped, and spayed or neutered.
Community, Art, and “Kit-tea”
The cafe is a true community hub. They host local artists and take zero commission on sales, which is a rare and beautiful thing. The exhibits change on the last Friday of every month. I was particularly moved to hear that their next exhibit will support immigrant protection efforts in Lawrence.
They also know how to have a little fun. From “Hissing Booths” on Valentine’s Day to their upcoming “Kit-tea” event featuring British teas, there is always a reason to stop by.
He Found Love in Lawrence
Before I left, Mary told me a story that I know I will be telling for a long time. A touring musician visited the cafe and fell head over heels for a cat named Love. He could not adopt her while on the road, but he couldn’t get her out of his head. When his tour ended weeks later, he found out she was still available. He traveled across the entire country just to bring her home. As Mary put it, he truly found Love in Lawrence.
Whether you are looking to add a new member to your family or you just need a quiet place to enjoy a pastry and a purr, I cannot recommend this spot enough. It is a beautiful example of what happens when a business is built on a foundation of genuine care.
Make an online reservation for the Purrlor or just come on in!
Make sure to visit the Sunflower Pet Cat Cafe the next time you are in Manhattan, KS!
If you want to capture your own ‘Purrfection’ with your pets at home, I am now booking lifestyle pet and family sessions in Lawrence with no travel fees for 2026!
