Nine Lives Cafe & Cat Lounge

Nine Lives Cafe & Cat Lounge holds the distinction of being Indianapolis's first cat cafe, celebrating nearly a decade of operation in the Fountain Square neighborhood. The cafe operates with a philosophy of equal excellence on both sides of its business: the attached-but-separate coffee shop showcases artistically curated drinks, pastries sourced from local bakeries, and consignment art from community artists, while the cat lounges center around the nonprofit foundation IndyAdopts. Founded in 2021 by the cafe's second ownership team, IndyAdopts channels visitor spending directly toward multiple rescue organizations and shelters in the area, reducing overcrowding burdens while providing comprehensive care to foster cats.

The physical space reflects thoughtful design for both humans and felines. Visitors who aren't interested in cat interaction can enjoy the cafe side with its gift shop and gallery features. Those reserving time in the lounges (strongly recommended, though walk-ins are accommodated when space permits) encounter separate rooms tailored to different cat populations—dedicated kitten areas and quieter "zen rooms" for older cats seeking reduced stimulation. The cafe enforces structured age policies across different time slots (all ages until 1pm, 13+ from 2-4pm, adults only 5-7pm), reflecting the owners' commitment to maintaining low-stress environments for the cats' wellbeing.

Reviews consistently highlight staff kindness and flexibility, with visitors noting accommodations even for timing mishaps, plus particular praise for the quality of the coffee—the "Dirty Chai" appears frequently as a customer favorite. The sleeping cats receive deliberate mention across guest accounts ("a sleepy cat is a safe cat"), suggesting this calm atmosphere develops naturally from the cafe's operational choices. Visitors report well-socialized kittens and adult cats available for adoption, making the space function as a genuine introduction opportunity for prospective adopters. The experience appeals to both dedicated cat enthusiasts and casual coffee drinkers seeking a community-minded, peaceful gathering spot.