Animal enthusiasts have a new destination to enjoy the company of capybaras, the latest popular pets, at The Capybara Cafe. Nestled in the back of a real estate office in the historic city of St. Augustine, Florida, these sizable furry rodents are bringing joy to visitors by climbing into laps and eagerly seeking attention and scratches.
Opened by Stephanie Angel in late 2024, this unique cafe has quickly become a hotspot for animal lovers. Since its opening in October, the venue near downtown St. Augustine and Flagler College has seen hundreds of visitors eager to interact with the friendly capybaras. Reservations are often made months ahead of time, attracting patrons from across the region, including visitors like Leah Macri from Orlando.
Upon arrival, guests are introduced to a cozy reception area furnished with couches and an open pen featuring baby chicks. Excitement peaks when groups of six visitors are ushered into a smaller room. There, blankets are placed on laps, and the capybara stars make their entrance, alongside other exotic animals such as skunks, wallabies, and armadillos. For $49, guests enjoy a half-hour encounter with capybaras, or they can opt for a $99 hour-long experience that includes interactions with the other animals.
While capybaras are the main attraction, visitors often find delight in other creatures. For example, Macri found holding the armadillo particularly enjoyable, describing it as soft and sweet. The capybara, a semi-aquatic mammal native to South America and related to the guinea pig, has gained significant popularity in the United States, appearing on various merchandise from slippers to bath bombs. These web-footed animals can grow over four feet long and weigh more than 100 pounds.
Although several zoos and wildlife parks offer capybara encounters, The Capybara Cafe is unique for its intimate setting. Stephanie Angel has announced plans to expand this concept with a new location in St. Petersburg, Florida. While the cafe does not serve coffee or hot food, it offers a range of capybara-themed merchandise, including T-shirts, coffee mugs, and plush toys. The establishment supports Noah’s Ark Sanctuary Inc., a nonprofit animal refuge based in Hastings, Florida.
Visitors are often surprised by both the texture of the capybaras’ fur and their affectionate behavior. Chris Cooper, who traveled from Weeki Wachee, found the roughness of their hair unexpected but enjoyed the animals’ eagerness for attention.
The Human Angle
The Capybara Cafe introduces an intriguing twist to local tourism and animal interaction, providing a novel experience for residents and travelers alike. This unique animal cafe highlights the increasing trend of offering immersive and interactive animal experiences, appealing to those seeking unforgettable encounters with exotic creatures.
Beyond entertainment, the cafe’s presence supports local wildlife conservation efforts through its association with Noah’s Ark Sanctuary Inc. As visitors engage with these animals, they contribute to a cause that extends beyond the cafe’s walls, supporting the care and rehabilitation of various species. Additionally, the cafe’s expansion signals potential growth in local tourism and economic activity, drawing visitors to the historic city of St. Augustine and its future site in St. Petersburg.