New York City is getting a bodega dedicated entirely to cats, with free treats, games, prizes, and even a feline-sized break room taking over a Lower Manhattan storefront.
The Temptations Cat Bodega will open at 213 Bowery from September 17 through September 19, transforming the space into an interactive experience inspired by the cats commonly found lounging behind counters and roaming the aisles of NYC bodegas.
The free pop-up will be open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. ET each day, with visitors able to pick up cat treats and compete for exclusive merchandise.
Inside New York City’s Cat Bodega
Temptations says the pop-up is designed to put bodega cats at the center of the experience, with cat-themed products filling the shelves and several activities available throughout the store.
Visitors will be able to take home free Temptations Classic Treats and Lickable Puree, while games including a claw machine and scratch-off tickets will offer chances to win Cat Bodega merchandise.
The space will also feature a life-sized cat condo “break room” alongside other cat-inspired areas designed to recreate a bodega from a feline perspective.
Comedian and actress Heidi Gardner partnered with Temptations for the event and said the experience was designed to capture the feel of a traditional NYC bodega.
“The magic of a true NYC bodega is that it’s the only place on earth where you can buy an iced coffee, long-stem roses, and cat treats all in one stop,” Gardner said.
“And if you’re really lucky, the 22-year-old cat who actually owns the store might acknowledge your existence. I love how the TEMPTATIONS Cat Bodega has nailed the hometown energy, but this time, the bodega cat gets to be the total center of attention.”
Those outside New York City will also be able to participate through a virtual version of the Cat Bodega running from September 17 through September 26.
The online experience will include a digital scratch-off game offering chances to win treats and merchandise. Visitors will also be able to virtually gift treats to participating cats working at shops, corner stores and other venues around the country.
The physical Cat Bodega is only scheduled to stick around for three days, with admission and the featured cat treats available for free.
The pop-up follows several cases of store cats becoming attractions in their own right. Earlier this year, a grocery store cat named Noodle was allowed to return to his usual spot after his removal sparked backlash from customers and an online petition calling for him to come back.
Similarly, a cat named Leo became a fixture at a Home Depot in New Jersey after being adopted by an employee. The feline regularly roams the store, greets shoppers and even earned himself the unofficial title of “employee of the year” among fans online.
