New Capybara Café Opens in St. Pete: Cuddle with Gentle Giants!

St. Augustine, Florida, United States - Capybaras have taken a delightful slice of Florida by storm, captivating both locals and visitors alike. These charming creatures, celebrated in memes and merchandise, have found a cozy home within the state’s unique wildlife cafes. The original Capybara Café opened in St. Augustine in 2022, and it’s since become a hub for anyone eager to cuddle a capybara while sipping a warm drink. As part of Florida’s growing fascination with these sociable rodents, a second location will soon launch in St. Petersburg, opening its doors on July 11, 2025.

Stephanie Angel, the heart behind these cafes and the founder of Noah’s Ark Sanctuary, has created a warm and inviting environment for both the capybaras and their fans. The St. Pete venue promises an impressive 6,490 square feet of industrial-chic design, complete with private meeting spaces and VIP lounging areas where visitors can embrace these gentle giants. For just $49, guests can enjoy a 30-minute session in the Capybara Lounge, an experience that helps fund the compassionate care provided to over 100 rescued animals at the sanctuary.

A Closer Look at Capybara Interactions

The interactive experience is what draws many to the Capybara Café. Guests can engage closely with resident capybaras named Mocha and Latte during their sessions, which are designed to be educational as well as enjoyable. The cafe offers a variety of encounter packages, including a Premium Encounter for $99, which features additional animals like skunks, wallabies, and armadillos. This blend of fun and education allows visitors to learn about capybara behaviors, habitats, and the conservation challenges these creatures face today, highlighted by the ongoing threats of habitat loss and hunting.

Visitors rave about the cleanliness and organization of the cafés, appreciating the knowledgeable staff who ensure animal welfare. The animals are given the choice to interact with guests voluntarily, ensuring that their participation is as stress-free as possible. After their engaging interactions, capybaras return to spacious enclosures, overseen by a veterinarian who ensures their health and happiness.

Support and Conservation Efforts

The Capybara Café isn’t just about premium coffee and cozy animal interactions—it’s also a platform for raising awareness about wildlife conservation. All proceeds from visits support the ongoing mission of Noah’s Ark Sanctuary, emphasizing the importance of responsible wildlife tourism. However, it’s worth noting that some animal rights advocates have raised concerns over using wild animals for entertainment. The café addresses these worries by stressing that all interactions are voluntary, and every aspect of care is aligned with strict regulations set forth by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and the Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission.

In efforts to bolster capybara conservation, visitors are encouraged to engage in practices such as donating to conservation organizations and educating their communities about wildlife protection. Groups can even make a difference by advocating for ethical wildlife tourism practices. With so much to offer—whether it’s a relaxing day with delightful capybaras or a commitment to animal preservation—Florida’s Capybara Cafés are a delightful, educational retreat. There’s something to be said for enjoying good company while doing good in the world! Support for animal welfare has never felt so cozy.