A family-owned team plans to launch Capy Hour Café on March 31, 2026, inside the Big Red’s Barn building in Coeur d'Alene. The reservation-only venue will offer Brazilian-inspired drinks and snacks alongside interactions with capybaras in a serene setting. Organizers aim to provide a peaceful, immersive experience limited to 10 guests per session.
The Harris family, operators of Big Red’s Barn, announced the upcoming opening of Capy Hour Café, set for March 31, 2026. Located within the barn's building but accessible via a private entrance and exit, the café will function as a distinct attraction. Visitors can book sessions independently or combine them with a barn visit.
Designed for tranquility, the space features warm clay tones, tropical plants, and soft lighting, evoking the capybaras' Brazilian origins. Sessions accommodate only 10 guests to foster a relaxed atmosphere. The menu includes Brazilian-inspired specialty coffees, teas, açaí bowls, and light tropical snacks.
Guests will interact with capybaras, the world's largest rodents, which have gained popularity across the United States in recent years. Jace Harris, part of the team, explained: “We didn’t want to create just another café. We wanted to create a place that feels peaceful and magical, like you’ve stepped into a little corner of Brazil right here in North Idaho. It’s meant to be warm, calm and truly special.”
Haely Harris emphasized the focus on quality: “This isn’t about volume. It’s about quality. We want people to feel relaxed — to enjoy their drink, slow down and connect not just with the animals but with the environment around them.”
Organizers describe Capy Hour Café as one of the few dedicated capybara experiences nationwide and the first in the Inland Northwest. Ginger Harris noted: “We’ve seen firsthand how much people connect with capybaras. There’s something incredibly gentle and grounding about these animals. We’re excited to create a space where people can experience the joy they bring in a completely new way.”
The attraction is expected to attract visitors from Coeur d’Alene, Spokane, Pullman, Lewiston, the Tri-Cities, and western Montana. Reservations, which will be limited, open before the debut; updates are available via Big Red’s Barn social media.