This charming cat cafe is owned by business partners Joyce Kristine Abesames and Swannie Lim. The idea of starting a business together started when they were attending the same baking class, though they had differing thoughts as to what business should be. Joyce wanted a pastry shop while Swannie wanted something that involved cats, so the logical choice was a cat cafe. They got the name Cats and Crumbs from their likes and hobbies–Swanie is a cat lover while Joyce loves baking.
The business started with the dream of having the first cat cafe in Marikina City—one where rescued cats could be adopted, while also serving as a place where you can have good food and a little playtime. They help foster rescued cats and put them up for adoption so these cats can find their forever homes. They have partnered with Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) where they get the rescued cats to put in the cafe, so they can socialize and hopefully find a loving home. This helps free up space at the PAWS compound so that the organization can rescue more cats. They also want to let people know that it’s better to adopt than to shop. To date, seven cats have been adopted since the opening and three more are lined up for adoption.
They also mentioned that students from schools around Marikina visit the cafe, wherein they are taught responsible pet ownership. In this way, the students will know how to handle pets and make them realize that cats are also sweet animals.
The cafe is decked out in cat decor, from its interior up to the displays in the eating area. The cafe is separated into two: one side is for hanging out with the any of the ten sweet, cuddly cats the cafe is fostering. For sanitary reasons, a separate side is kept exclusively as the eating area where the visitors can enjoy their food. They also have this special area where the visitors can draw freely and share their best cat artworks in the display. Mostly of the artworks are made by kids who have come to visit.
Cats and Crumbs has a lineup of sumptuous food that’s fit for anyone, from little, all the way to full-grown cat lovers. Their Pesto pasta ended up being my favorite from their offerings, though their carbonara, which is really creamy and will surely satisfy your cravings.
They also have a delicious Grilled Cheese and Tomato sandwich that pairs perfectly with the pesto. Should you have a little picky eater with you, the ham and cheese should fit the bill.
Large groups will want to try the massive nacho plate. Good for four grown-ups, it’s the perfect snack after some vigorous kitty playtime.
Being the business of two bakers, they have excellent brownies. Chewy and marshmallowy, it’s a treat that you shouldn’t pass up, particularly if you have a sweet tooth.
No cafe would be complete without a few drinks. They have a refreshing cold brew, with beans sourced from farmers in Sagada. They also serve sweet Iced Sagada tea which is a great thirst-quencher, or you can have it hot, to cap a nice meal.
By far my favorite drink was the Iced Milo Dinocat. A chocolate drink with milo powder on top of it. If you are staying away from caffeine but need a little boost, this drink is for you.
Additionally, if you want to have an event with some feline friends, Cats and Crumbs offers party packages that are good for up to 36 guests.
The meals are kid- and adult-friendly and reasonably priced. If you’re looking for a place that has good food, a cozy ambience and a few furry friends, Cats and Crumbs is it. Cats and Crumbs Cafe is located at 2/F Terrazza Phase 2 C&B Circle Mall Liwasang Kalayaan Street, Marikina Heights, Marikina City.
Visit their page at facebook.com/catsandcrumbs
Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE September 2018 Issue.
Words by Paula Candoy
Photos by Jerico Lutrania