The Story Behind Tuxedo Cat’s Coffee & Botanical Bar

Tuxedo Cat’s Coffee peeks through the garden at Palm Buddha.

By Gabriella Gonzales

July 14, 2025

SAN ANTONIO – Nestled at the entrance of the Palm Buddha garden in San Antonio, Texas, Tuxedo Cat’s Coffee & Botanical Bar is more than a charming trailer. It’s a cozy space filled with lush greenery, artsy decor and small-batch drinks crafted with care.

Inspired by her late cat Mina and her lifelong love for plants, Lizzy Stites created Tuxedo Cat’s as a gluten-free, organic and plant-based beverage bar. She now serves up matchas, herbal teas, coffee specials and botanical drinks, all made with ingredients she trusts.

“I never want that corporate feel,” she said. “They lose the value of quality, and to me, that's really important.”

From drink creation to machine repairs and supply runs, Lizzy does it all. And like most small business owners, she’s faced new challenges as the business has grown.

“The first one was finding help and knowing when financially you're ready to seek employees,” she said. “And also the challenge of how to be a good employer without being a boss. I think there's a big difference. Because I'm in there, I'm doing the same thing you're doing.”

When she’s not brewing or restocking, Lizzy is also a published author. Her children’s book, Winter’s Gift, was written in honor of the same cat who inspired her brand. You can find it available for purchase on her website https://tuxedocatscoffeellc.us/ and Amazon.

What makes a coffee spot feel meaningful to you?