Hang out with pretty ragdoll cats at Catea, while sipping on premium Chinese tea

If you’re a cat and tea lover — basically, a really chill person — Catea is a spot that will definitely win you over. A short walk from Upper Thomson MRT, near Thomson V Two, Catea brings together a handful of ragdoll cats and a selection of quality Chinese tea. 

Since opening in 2024, it has stayed relatively under the radar, though it clearly has a steady base of new regulars who know what it offers.

And yes, you heard it right — ragdoll cats. This isn’t your typical cat cafe in Singapore.

The space itself is intentionally small and calm. Seating is limited, with space for around 20 people when full. You don’t just walk in and settle down either — guests wait outside, and once a seat is available, you’re invited in. 

Shoes come off at the entrance, and hand and foot sanitising is part of the routine before you enter.

We visited on a weekday afternoon and managed to get a seat without waiting. It turned into an easy, unhurried few hours of tea drinking, while cats lazed around the space.

We even asked if it’s possible to work here, and yes — it is a work-friendly space! The staff didn’t seem to mind us staying longer, as long as it isn’t during peak hours or when there’s a queue forming outside.

Speaking of the friendly staff: They appear to share a really close bond with the cats, which adds to this sense of safety in this space.

Depending on what you order — and this is indicated on the menu — your stay is capped at either 60 or 120 minutes during the busy periods. Each guest, including children, is required to order at least one tea.

Here’s one thing we truly appreciate about Catea: The menu doesn’t feel like an afterthought — a rarity for a cat cafe. The Chinese tea selection is thoughtfully and well-curated. 

While prices are on the higher side, you can taste the quality of its tea blends, and there’s care in how everything is presented. Unlike many cat cafes, there’s also no entrance fee or hourly charge. It’s an all-in-one model: You pay for your tea, and the cats come as part of the experience.

Premium Chinese tea

Every tea is served either in a pot or a bottle, and each order comes with a small serving of dates on the side — a simple, thoughtful touch that rounds out the experience.

The hot Golden Peony black tea (S$20) is sourced from the Wuyi mountains in Fujian. It’s a blend with souchong and Golden Peony notes — a taste of tea floral, honey, and fruitiness.

We loved how it was smooth, full-bodied, rich and calming. It was our favourite of everything we tried. If you tend to like black tea better, this is a sure hit.

The Spring Mountain Longjing (S$25), on the other hand, is a hot green tea from Zhejiang. It comes with softer, more vegetal notes — orchid, chestnut, and a bean-like sweetness. 

Compared to the black tea, this one feels lighter, with a naturally sweet finish that makes it an easy sipping option, if you prefer something gentler.

If you’re coming on a warmer day and want something a little more cooling, there’s also a selection of tea mocktails.

We tried the Golden Autumn (S$25), a blend of jasmine, osmanthus, and green tea. The jasmine comes through quite prominently, layered with bean and floral notes underneath. 

It’s served in both a small and tall glass, and the idea is to enjoy them separately — starting with the more concentrated pour before moving on to the colder, more refreshing glass. 

It’s an insightful way of experiencing the blend — in two different expressions, one more aromatic, and the other in a crisp and cooling format.

We also had a Chinese pastry (S$6 per piece) for a snack — a biscuit-like bite that leans a little steep in price, but is satisfying when paired with the tea. It’s simple, and works in the context of everything else here.

There’s also a few cold brew teas (from S$18) available, alongside simple add-ons such as nuts (S$5 per plate) and preserved dried fruits (S$5 per plate), which would work well as light accompaniments.

If you’re looking for something more indulgent, the kung fu tea (from S$26) is meant for sharing with two people. It’s a more ceremonial set, served with a teapot, tea cups, tea towel, and pastries — leaning into a more intentional way of drinking tea.

For better value, the set options are worth considering. The stove iced tea sets are also designed for two or four people, and come with a fuller spread. Depending on the set, you’ll get a combination of cold teas, snacks, and pastries.

Between your sips of tea, you’ll find the ragdoll cats doing what they do best — lounging and stretching, with the usual unbothered energy. The place exudes a lot of charm and calm throughout. With Catea’s quality tea and pretty ragdoll cats, you’re set for a perfect afternoon.

For more ideas on what to eat at Upper Thomson, read on the cosy Cottage Kitchen and Bakery and the vibey brunch cafe Beth.