Gulf Shores is getting a cat cafe with a space designed for felines and feline lovers alike, complete with adoptable kitties to visit or bring home.
Salty Whisker is coming to a space in a new building in the southwest corner of East 20th Avenue and East Second Street near the Waterway Village District. The new business is applying for a liquor license to serve or sell to-go beer and wine, which was discussed during a city council work session on Aug. 3. The council will vote on the license at its regular session on Aug. 10.
“The Salty Whisker is a locally owned cat café coming soon to Gulf Shores to offer a unique space where the community can relax, connect and unwind,” a release from the owners states. “Guests will enjoy a selection of nonalcoholic beverages, specialty coffee, beer and wine while creating a one-of-a-kind destination that supports both the community and local rescue efforts.”
A separate cat lounge will host cats from local rescue groups, and patrons will be able to see if one would be a fit for their home.
During the same work session, the Gulf Shores City Council also discussed renewing an annual contract with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management to help the building department streamline permitting, hear variance requests and patrol the beaches (the city will be reimbursed $66,550 for the services); amending the city’s zoning ordinance to modify the definition of the Beach Walking Overlay District; annexing 5.49 acres at 18789 Oak Road West just west of the Gulf Shores Sportsplex; approving an assembly permit for the 11th-annual Tacky Jack’s Bloody Mary 5K on Sept. 5; and approving an assembly permit for the 53rd-annual National Shrimp Festival Oct. 8-11 at Gulf Place.