Ron LawnWhen you’re on vacation with your furry companion, finding the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat is key to making your trip memorable. Luckily, many restaurants across the country offer dog-friendly outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals while your dog lounges by your side. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch, a leisurely dinner, or just a coffee break, these dog-friendly dining spots ensure that both you and your pup are welcomed. Here’s a guide to some of the top dog-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating where you and your dog can dine together.
1. The Dog House – Columbus, OH
Type of Cuisine: American, Hot Dogs, Burgers
The Dog House in Columbus, Ohio, takes dog-friendly dining to the next level. With a special focus on hot dogs and burgers, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere for dogs, complete with a “pup menu” that includes treats like “Pup Corn” and “Pup-roni.” Their outdoor seating area is spacious, allowing your dog to relax while you enjoy one of their delicious hot dogs, washed down with a craft beer.
Why It’s Great for Dogs: The pup menu and dedicated dog-friendly seating area make it a top spot for dog lovers. They even host dog-centric events and activities regularly!
2. Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar – Multiple Locations Nationwide
Type of Cuisine: American, Burgers, Sandwiches, Steaks
With locations all over the U.S., Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar is a chain known for being exceptionally dog-friendly. Their outdoor patios are perfect for dogs, and they even have a special “Pooch Menu” offering items like grilled chicken, hamburger patties, and brown rice. After a delicious meal, you can enjoy a dog-friendly dessert, such as the “Pup Sundae,” made of vanilla ice cream and a dog biscuit.
Why It’s Great for Dogs: The extensive dog-friendly menu and relaxed, spacious patios make Lazy Dog a great option for pups and their humans alike.
3. The Patio on Lamont – Denver, CO
Type of Cuisine: American, Brunch, Dinner
Located in the heart of Denver, The Patio on Lamont offers a laid-back atmosphere where dogs are welcome to join their owners on the outdoor patio. Known for its delicious brunch options, craft cocktails, and dog-friendly amenities, this restaurant goes the extra mile by providing dog treats and water bowls to ensure your pet feels right at home.
Why It’s Great for Dogs: The dog-friendly outdoor seating area is equipped with amenities like water bowls, and the restaurant has a dog-friendly vibe, making it a perfect spot to relax with your pup.
4. Cafe Citti – Santa Barbara, CA
Type of Cuisine: Italian, Pizza, Pasta
If you’re vacationing in Santa Barbara, California, Café Citti offers an amazing pet-friendly dining experience. With a cozy outdoor seating area, dogs are welcome to relax with their owners while enjoying the beautiful California weather. Café Citti specializes in Italian cuisine, offering everything from fresh pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas. They also offer dog treats, so your pup can enjoy a special snack while you savor your meal.
Why It’s Great for Dogs: The relaxed outdoor environment and dog treats make it a popular spot for pet owners. The location is also perfect for enjoying a walk with your dog after a delicious meal.
5. The Franklin – Austin, TX
Type of Cuisine: BBQ, Southern
Texas is known for its BBQ, and The Franklin in Austin is a must-visit spot if you’re bringing your dog along. This renowned BBQ joint offers a great outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome to join their owners. You can indulge in their famous brisket, ribs, and sausage while your dog lounges under the table. The laid-back vibe makes it the perfect stop after a long day of exploring the city.
Why It’s Great for Dogs: The large outdoor patio is dog-friendly, and there are plenty of open spaces where your dog can relax while you enjoy some of the best BBQ in the area.
6. The Surfing Goat Dairy – Maui, HI
Type of Cuisine: Farm-to-Table, Goat Cheese
If you’re traveling to Maui, Hawaii, and you’re looking for something truly unique, The Surfing Goat Dairy should be on your list. Known for their goat cheese and farm-to-table meals, this spot is not only dog-friendly but also offers a pet-friendly farm experience. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the Maui countryside while your dog relaxes in the outdoor seating area. There are even special dog treats made with goat milk for your pup to enjoy!
Why It’s Great for Dogs: The outdoor seating area with stunning views of the farm is ideal for relaxing with your dog, and they even offer goat milk dog treats.
7. Barker’s Lounge – San Diego, CA
Type of Cuisine: American, Bar Food
Barker’s Lounge in San Diego is a fantastic dog-friendly restaurant and bar with a focus on both dogs and their owners. Located in the heart of the city, the outdoor seating area is welcoming to dogs, and they offer a selection of dog treats and water bowls. Barker’s Lounge even hosts dog-centric events, including “Yappy Hours” for pups and their humans, where you can enjoy craft beers while your dog socializes with other dogs.
Why It’s Great for Dogs: With special dog-friendly events, treats, and a fun atmosphere, it’s a great spot to unwind with your pup.
8. Marty’s Café – Santa Monica, CA
Type of Cuisine: American, Breakfast, Sandwiches
Marty’s Café is a popular breakfast spot in Santa Monica, California, with a reputation for being exceptionally dog-friendly. The café offers a great outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome to join their owners. You can enjoy delicious breakfast fare like eggs, pancakes, and avocado toast while your dog lounges at your feet. The restaurant also has water bowls and dog-friendly treats available for your furry friend.
Why It’s Great for Dogs: The welcoming outdoor seating and relaxed vibe make Marty’s Café a great choice for a leisurely breakfast or lunch with your pup.
9. DogTown – New Orleans, LA
Type of Cuisine: Dog Treats, Ice Cream, Casual Eats
DogTown in New Orleans is a completely unique dining experience where dogs are the guests of honor. This spot specializes in gourmet dog treats and ice cream, but their human customers can enjoy a variety of food and beverages while their dogs are pampered with dog-friendly snacks. The outdoor seating area is perfect for relaxing with your pup and treating them to something special. You can even order a “puppy cone” of dog-safe ice cream for your dog to enjoy.
Why It’s Great for Dogs: This dog-centric restaurant offers an entire menu for dogs, making it a fun, one-of-a-kind experience for pets and their owners.
10. Founding Farmers – Washington, D.C.
Type of Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Founding Farmers is a popular spot in Washington, D.C., where both dogs and humans can enjoy hearty American comfort food. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, and dogs are often treated to special doggie bags filled with treats. With its farm-to-table menu, you can enjoy everything from freshly made pancakes to flavorful fried chicken, while your dog enjoys their own treat by your side.
Why It’s Great for Dogs: The pet-friendly patio and treats for dogs make this a great place for enjoying a meal while your dog is pampered.
Conclusion
Traveling with your dog is a rewarding experience, especially when you find great dog-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating. From casual eateries to gourmet dining experiences, these restaurants offer the perfect setting to enjoy a meal with your pup. Whether you’re visiting a city, the beach, or a rural town, these dog-friendly spots make it easy to include your furry friend in all of your vacation plans. So, grab your leash and head out to one of these amazing dog-friendly restaurants for a meal to remember!
