At first glance, Two Wrasslin’ Cats (TWC) looks like the kind of place you’d stumble upon during a leisurely Sunday drive through the Connecticut countryside—a charming blue coffee house nestled in an 18th-century post-and-beam home, complete with a cat fountain, outdoor seating, and sandwiches whimsically named after famous felines. But spend a little time here, and you’ll realize that TWC is far more than a café. It’s a statement. A community. A sanctuary.

Founded in 2013 by former molecular biologist Mark Thiede, Two Wrasslin’ Cats started as a cat-themed coffee shop with great food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Over the years, it evolved into something much greater: a hub for social justice, inclusion, and activism. In May 2024, TWC officially became a nonprofit, cementing its commitment to causes that had already been at the heart of its mission—LGBTQ+ rights, racial and social justice, women’s reproductive freedom, and feline welfare.

How did a quirky café known for its “Catprese” sandwiches and espresso drinks end up leading social justice efforts in its community? The story is as heartwarming as it is inspiring.

From Science to Sandwiches

Before he was a café owner, Mark Thiede spent decades as a molecular biologist, retiring from Pfizer in 2012. But rather than settle into a quiet retirement, he took a sharp left turn—straight into the world of food service. After training as a barista and learning the ins and outs of hospitality, he transformed an antique house into a vibrant, cat-themed coffee shop.

The name “Two Wrasslin’ Cats” was inspired by Thiede’s late feline companions, Bruno and Larry, who were named after legendary wrestlers Bruno Sammartino and Larry Zbyszko. Their playful, sometimes chaotic antics mirrored the energy Thiede wanted to bring to the café—lively, welcoming, and full of personality.

But while coffee and cat-themed decor were the initial draws, it quickly became clear that TWC was about more than just food and ambiance. It was about people—creating a space where everyone felt safe, respected, and at home.

A Safe Space for All

TWC’s commitment to social justice didn’t emerge overnight. It was always embedded in its DNA. In 2017, following the inauguration of Donald Trump, the café hosted one of Connecticut’s three Women’s March vigils, standing in solidarity with those fighting for gender equality. And every Saturday morning after that—until the pandemic halted in-person gatherings—TWC held weekly vigils for justice, standing with marginalized communities in times of political and social upheaval.

Beyond activism, TWC has long been a space for support and healing. It has hosted Narcotics and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings free of charge, provided a stage for local musicians and poets, and sponsored school and civic programs. In a time when public spaces often feel polarized or unwelcoming, TWC has remained steadfast in its mission: to be a home for those who need one.

That commitment was officially recognized in July 2024, when TWC became one of only four private businesses in Connecticut to be designated as a Safe Place—a location where victims of hate crimes, domestic violence, or discrimination can seek immediate assistance and protection. For many, this designation didn’t change much—it simply confirmed what the community already knew: Two Wrasslin’ Cats is a refuge.

The Cat Connection

Despite its serious mission, TWC never loses sight of the fun and lightheartedness that made it special in the first place. After all, at its core, this is still a place for coffee, conversation, and, of course, cats.

In 2022, the café introduced the New Wrasslin’ Cats Lounge, home to six sibling rescue cats who provide customers with what can only be described as purrfect therapy. Whether you’re sipping coffee with a tabby curled up next to you or enjoying a meal under the watchful eye of a particularly judgmental feline, the presence of these cats adds a unique charm to the space.

And TWC’s commitment to feline welfare goes beyond its café walls. As part of its new nonprofit mission, the organization actively supports feral cat spay and neuter programs, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of the feline community are cared for.

Sustaining a Mission-Driven Café

Running a coffee house is hard. Running a nonprofit coffee house that also serves as a community hub and activist space? Even harder. But Thiede and his team have made it work by weaving their mission into every aspect of the business.

Revenue from food and drink sales helps sustain the nonprofit’s outreach efforts, while community donations and grants provide additional support. But the real secret to TWC’s success is its people—the customers who come not just for a cup of coffee, but to be part of something bigger.

“People need a place where they feel seen, where they feel safe,” Thiede has said. “We’re not just serving coffee—we’re building community.”

What’s Next for Two Wrasslin’ Cats?

With its new nonprofit status and expanding advocacy work, TWC is looking ahead to even greater impact. Future plans include strengthening partnerships with local organizations, expanding its feline welfare programs, and continuing to be a vocal advocate for social justice.

But at its heart, the mission remains the same: to be a place where love, kindness, and a really good cup of coffee can change the world—one customer at a time.

So whether you come for the sandwiches, the activism, or just the cats, one thing is certain: at Two Wrasslin’ Cats, you’ll always have a seat at the table.