Gem City Catfé is where coffee and compassion meet — Dayton’s first combination café and cat adoption center. It’s a bright, friendly spot in St. Anne’s Hill where you can enjoy a latte while interacting with adoptable cats from the Humane Society of Greater Dayton.

Gem City Catfé — Dayton, Ohio

Concept & Mission

Since opening in 2018, Gem City Catfé has redefined what a coffee shop can be. Its mission is twofold: serve great drinks and help cats find forever homes. Through a glass wall separating the café from the “cat lounge,” guests can sip coffee while watching the residents play — or book time inside the lounge for the full experience.

The Café Side

Baristas serve locally roasted coffee, espresso drinks, and teas, along with a rotating selection of baked goods. The Honey Bee Latte — espresso, honey, and steamed milk — has become a crowd favorite. Non-dairy options and vegan snacks ensure everyone feels welcome.

The Lounge

The cat lounge is the heart of Gem City’s mission. Every cat is adoptable, socialized, and sourced through rescue partnerships. Over 2,000 adoptions have been facilitated since opening — proof that Dayton loves a good cause served with caffeine. Reservations are recommended for weekends and events.

Community Impact

Beyond adoption, Catfé hosts craft nights, yoga-with-cats classes, and local art exhibits, turning coffee breaks into meaningful community experiences. It’s become a Dayton landmark for both pet lovers and coffee fans.

Plan Your Visit

Address: 1513 E 5th St, Dayton, OH 45403
Website: gemcitycatfe.com
Phone: (937) 949-9170

See More Local Flavor

Find other neighborhood cafés in our Dayton coffee directory. For small-business support in Dayton, visit Ingram Insurance Group — trusted protection for cafés, vendors, and entrepreneurs across the Miami Valley.