About Two Wrasslin' Cats Coffee House & Cafe
Two Wrasslin' Cats blends focused coffee craft with breakfast- and lunch-forward sandwiches and baked goods.
Reviewers repeatedly praise the espresso drinks, breakfast sandwiches and house pastries, describing the place as both a coffee shop and a small community hub.
Service is consistently called warm and chatty, often led by owner Mark, and the interior is decorated with cat art and a dedicated room for six resident cats.
Outdoor seating beside a creek adds a relaxed setting for smoothies, chowders or a Reuben.
Location & Contact
- Address374 Town St, East Haddam, CT 06423
- Websitehttps://twowrasslincats.com
- Phone(860) 891-8446
- Links Get directions
What to Expect
The menu skews breakfast-first: reviewers mention egg sandwiches, croissants, bagel sandwiches and breakfast sandwiches as standouts.
Savory options that get repeated praise include the Reuben, the Catprese and the Tomcat Turkey Sandwich, served on ciabatta or similar breads.
Baked goods are a highlight — coffee cake, raspberry crumb cake, cinnamon rolls and cookies earn mentions — and espresso drinks (including a noted dirty chai and lavender latte) are frequently described as excellent.
Smoothies and chowders round out the accessible, comfort-food selection.
Hashtag Breakfast Fact's
Local Ingredients: A Breakfast Staple
Connecticut's rich agricultural history has greatly shaped its breakfast offerings. With farms producing fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains, local ingredients play a vital role in morning meals. For instance, the use of fresh blueberries in pancakes or strawberries in breakfast dishes highlights the seasonal bounty of the region. This connection to local farming not only enhances the flavors of breakfast but also fosters a sense of community. As people become more aware of the benefits of eating local, the tradition of incorporating regional ingredients into breakfast has grown stronger, celebrating the state's agricultural heritage.
Menu Highlights
From the Community
Two Wrasslin' Cats Coffee House & Cafe in East Haddam is a small, personality-rich spot where coffee, sandwiches and cat culture meet.
The kitchen leans breakfast-heavy — egg and bagel sandwiches, croissants, the Catprese, a Reuben and the Tomcat Turkey Sandwich are commonly praised — while the pastry case features coffee cake, cinnamon rolls and crumb cake.
Espresso-based drinks draw particular attention from visitors, with one guest saying, "Coffees were aaaaamazing" (yungluna) and another calling the dirty chai "one of the best chais I’ve ever had" (Samantha Gurn).
Service is frequently described as personable and welcoming; reviewers repeatedly name owner Mark for his friendly conversations and hospitality.
The cafe doubles as a tiny cat sanctuary: six resident cats can be visited for a small donation that reviewers note supports local spay/neuter efforts.
With quirky cat art inside and a scenic outdoor seating area by a creek, the cafe functions equally as a neighborhood coffee stop and a tourist-worthy detour for breakfast, pastries and relaxed lunches.
Why Locals Love It
Customer Reviews
"This is a great place to grab coffee,tea, bite to eat! We stopped because of the uniqueness of the name and how interesting the cafe looked. This is a cat lovers paradise, so much to look at every turn whether you are inside or outside…truly a gem for all to see. My husband and I enjoyed our visit today. And meeting the owner Mark was so nice. Thanks Mark for being so kind and friendly, the vibes when entering your place was also a treat. We enjoyed our beverages and the conversation. What an unforgettable place to visit, I wanted to stop after leaving our Postcard Cabin. We enjoyed the photo opportunity as Two Wrassling Cats. Retired Couple from Dallas Texas!"
"Visited this lovely spot while in the area, and after my mom had already heard great things about it. The food & coffee were delicious with the friendly staff delivering efficient service despite being busy. The overall atmosphere was pleasant, thoughtful, and beyond welcoming and accessible for people of all ages. Mark was incredibly genuine with each customer he interacted with, ensuring that he gave people the time and attention to have a meaningful conversation. The cats were adorable and approachable, and their space was nicely maintained. My own cat would likely want to move in there 😹 I’ve seldom considered a coffee shop to be a safe space, and this establishment knocked it out of the park with achieving that specialty. I look forward to telling everyone I know about it so that they, too, can experience its charm"
"We enjoyed this place so much! The owner was great and asked us where we were from. We had sandwiches and an iced coffee. We were then shown the room with the cats and that was so much fun. You can leave a donation for the cats."
"Came for the coffee and croissant, stayed for the cats 😁. Great spot to go out for a drive. The outdoor seating looks like it would be amazing during the spring and summertime. There's great seating outside next to the creek. Inside, what can be said, if you ever thought of a cat themed decoration, they have it. The coffee tasted great, and they offer a good choice of sandwiches."
Hashtag Breakfast Fact's
Brunch: A Modern Evolution
Brunch, a delightful blend of breakfast and lunch, has become a cultural phenomenon in recent decades. This trend has roots in Connecticut, where social gatherings over late-morning meals fostered a more leisurely pace. Traditionally enjoyed on weekends, brunch allows for a range of dishes, from savory to sweet, giving diners the freedom to explore flavors. The social aspect of brunch emphasizes connection: it’s a time for friends and family to enjoy each other’s company while savoring a variety of tasty foods. This modern evolution reflects not only changing lifestyles but also a growing appreciation for food as a shared experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the coffee taste like here?
The coffee is described as carefully made and flavorful; guests often praise the espresso and iced coffees. One reviewer said, "Coffees were aaaaamazing," so expect a bold, well-prepared cup.
Is the dirty chai worth trying?
Yes. Multiple guests singled out the dirty chai, with one reviewer calling it "one of the best chais I’ve ever had," which suggests a rich spice balance and strong espresso presence.
What are the must-try sandwiches?
Reviews highlight the Reuben, the Catprese and the Tomcat Turkey Sandwich. Sandwiches are noted for fresh fillings and ciabatta or similar bread that holds up well to generous toppings.
How are the pastries and baked goods?
The pastry case gets lots of love: coffee cake, raspberry crumb cake, cinnamon rolls and cookies are repeatedly mentioned as fresh, sweet choices that pair well with coffee.
Are smoothies sweet or fruity?
Smoothies like the banana strawberry and pina colada are described as fruity and sweet; one reviewer said a banana strawberry smoothie was "basically my dessert drink," so expect a sweeter profile.
Do they serve chowders and soups?
Yes. Reviewers mention clam chowder and a grilled cheese paired with shrimp corn chowder, indicating hearty, comfort-style soup options on the menu.
Are there milk alternatives for drinks?
Yes. A reviewer noted that milk alternatives are available, so you can expect non-dairy options in lattes and other espresso drinks.
Does the presence of the cafe cats change the food experience?
The cats are kept in a separate lounge and visible areas, and reviewers describe the food as consistently good regardless. Guests often pair a meal or pastry with a visit to the cat room for an added experience.
Is the food more breakfast or lunch oriented?
The menu leans breakfast-first—egg sandwiches, croissants and breakfast sandwiches are common—while sandwiches like Reubens and turkey options also make it a solid lunch stop.
Does being in East Haddam influence the menu or vibe?
Local reviewers note the scenic outdoor seating by a creek and small-town friendliness, which reinforce a relaxed, comfort-food menu focused on coffee, sandwiches and pastries tied to community character.
Beer for Breakfast: A Surprising Tradition
Believe it or not, beer was once a common breakfast item for some early Americans. In colonial times, many people drank beer in the morning instead of water, which was often unsafe. This practice persisted into the 19th century, where it was not unusual for families to start their day with a hearty meal accompanied by a pint of ale or porter. Connecticut, with its brewing history, was part of this intriguing breakfast trend. While this practice may seem strange today, it reflects the resourcefulness of early Americans in adapting to their environment and making the most of what they had available.
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Two Wrasslin' Cats Coffee House & Cafe
Breakfast in a Changing World
As society continues to change, so does the way we approach breakfast. The fast-paced modern world has led to a rise in quick, convenient breakfast options, but there's also a growing interest in mindful eating. In Connecticut, many people are embracing breakfast as an opportunity to slow down and savor their meals, often opting for more wholesome and nutritious options. This shift reflects a broader trend where individuals seek to reconnect with the simple pleasures of food. Whether through homemade meals or locally-sourced ingredients, breakfast remains a vital part of our daily lives, showcasing our evolving relationship with food.
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Breakfast Through the Ages
Breakfast has evolved significantly over the centuries, transforming from a simple meal into a cherished daily ritual. In the early days of America, settlers often broke their fast with hearty porridge made from cornmeal or wheat, paired with cider. This simple fare reflected both the agricultural practices of the time and the scarcity of resources. By the 19th century, as society progressed and cities grew, breakfast began to change. Wealthier families started to emulate lavish English breakfasts, showcasing a variety of meats and produce. This culinary shift marked the beginnings of breakfast as we know it today, paving the way for diverse morning meals across the country, including right here in Connecticut.
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