Walking into downtown Georgetown’s newest cafe is just like walking into your favorite spot to grab a cup of coffee or glass of wine. There’s a cute cafe area with tables and chairs, plus comfy couches and cozy decor. The twist? You share the space with adorable and adoptable cats.

After years of advocacy work relating to domestic violence, human trafficking and foster youth, Purr & Pour owner Patricia Devine-Harms thought there must be a way to benefit the community while also having some fun. Her own furry pal, Mr. Biscuit, spent two years in a shelter before they met. This led her to wonder how many other great cats were languishing in shelters as they awaited their forever homes.

Purr & Pour Cat Café has a simple mission—to revolutionize the cat adoption process in Georgetown County by fostering shelter cats in a comfortable and cage-free home-like storefront. So how does a cat cafe work? Cat lovers pay a small fee to spend an hour in the cafe to get their feline fix. Whether they are looking to adopt a new friend or to relax and enjoy some kitty company, they will get to hang out with 12 to 15 homeless cats in a space with comfortable seating, wi-fi, a complimentary beverage and absolutely no cages. The felines are from Saint Frances Animal Center (SFAC) and have been vaccinated, wellness checked, microchipped and spayed or neutered. Adoption fees (usually $50) flow straight to SFAC.

A one-hour visit at Purr & Pour costs $9.50 for adults and $5.50 for children 4 to 12, with younger kids admitted free. Think of this as your “kitty cover charge,” which goes to helping care for the cats and keeping the lights on. While cat lovers of all ages are admitted, an adult must accompany those under 13 (with a maximum of two children per adult). Reservations are recommended, though walk-ins will be accommodated when space is available.

The cat-friendly lounge area is decked out with toys, beds and lots of spots for the kitties to play or stretch out for a nap in the sun. There are a few simple Cat Lounge Courtesies, like no loud noises, no waking up or picking up cats and no flash photography. The cat area itself is sparkling clean, but no cats are allowed into the cafe area. Additional drinks and food are available for purchase.

As well as accommodating daily visitors, Purr & Pour hosts private parties starting at $100 an hour for 12 people. They also provide community enrichment by offering educational outings for veterans, trauma survivors, school groups and other nonprofits. In the coming months, they hope to introduce special events like cat yoga, purr and paint, and cat education classes.

One special feature is the wish jar, where patrons can write a wish for a current feline resident. When that kitty finds its forever home, these sweet sentiments are sent along to their new owner. It’s amazing to see shy, nervous and standoffish cats blossoming in this environment as they become more socialized with the help of humans and other felines, something that is much less likely to happen from the confines of a cage. Visit the cafe to enjoy cats, coffee and kindness. You might even meet your new best friend.

Purr & Pour Cat Café
908 Front St., Georgetown
(843) 543-2287
Hours: Noon–6:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday; noon–8 p.m. on Thursday; 1–6 p.m. Sunday. Closed Tuesdays
$9.50 for adults; $5.50 for ages 4 to 12
Reserve your spot at purrandpour.com