Best dog-friendly patios in California

With warmer weather on its way, it's the perfect time to explore places you can dine with your furry friends. Did you know that as of January 1st, 2015, Californian canines can dine in designated outdoor areas if they are leashed or are in a carrier? We've compiled a list of restaurant and bar options with the best dog-friendly patios in California, so you and your companion can enjoy a lovely brunch date. 

So, stop searching for “pet-friendly patios near me” and take a look at our list below.

1. Ashland Hill – Santa Monica, California

Photo Courtesy of The Waffle

A dog-friendly restaurant with an excellent outdoor patio ambiance and plenty of things for both people and four-legged friends to enjoy. Ashland Hill's large covered patio space makes the gastropub a great place for all patrons in the Santa Monica historical Ocean Park neighborhood. You can catch Ashland Hill hosting community events like Yappy Hours that bring local pet owners and furry friends together so everyone can enjoy this unique dog-friendly patio!

2. The Waffle – Los Angeles, California

Photo Courtesy of The Waffle 

Having throwback vibes? Then, The Waffle might be the spot you’re looking for.

Located in Los Angeles, California, the retro-inspired waffle house has a large selection of waffle options for everyone to dine on. A special “woofles” menu is also available for your furry friend. The Waffle’s love for animals goes beyond the patio and menu. In fact, they also work with SPCA LA and many other non-profits to support positive change and to impact their community.

3. Park Bench Café – Huntington Beach, California

Conveniently located just a few miles from the beaches and next to a park, Park Bench Café’s friendly and relaxing atmosphere is just what you might be looking for after an afternoon walk with your companion. The café is a favorite amongst dog owners with its pet-friendly service, convenient location, and a full dog menu apart from the usual dog treats, which will surely keep your pup happy and content.

4. Molly’s Souper – Upland, California

Photo Courtesy of Molly's Souper

Looking to enjoy brunch with your furry patron in a charming house? Local joint Molly’s Souper in Upland, California just might be the thing you’re looking for.

The friendly staff members bring treats and fresh water bowls to all dogs upon arrival. The old neighborhood house now turned breakfast nook also offers a dog menu if you choose to enjoy a meal with your little buddy!

5. The Patio on Lamont Street – San Diego, California

Photo Courtesy of The Patio on Lamont Street

If you like drinks on the patio with your companion, then you don't want to skip out on The Patio on Lamont Street. In fact, this breakfast and brunch spot even encourages you to bring your furry friend to the restaurant! The Patio's open seating makes it a great place to enjoy a meal and people/pooch watch while enjoying a drink!

Before we forget – if you bring your companion you get to enjoy their special “dog-tail” drinks with a discount!

6. The Brewhouse Santa Barbara – Santa Barbara, California

Courtesy of The Brewhouse Santa Barbara

If you LOVE craft beer and you have a dog, then you have to come here, as it’s one of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Santa Barbara!

The Brewhouse Santa Barbara offers a vast array for human patrons and furry ones to enjoy (yes, even a dog menu!) Its large dog-friendly patio, friendly staff, and chill vibes make it a great place to hang out with your pet(s).

7. Universal Café – San Francisco, California

Patio season is here, and we know you’ve been searching for a brunch spot that serves Instagrammable meals, mimosas, and has a pet-friendly patio for your furry pal.  We think Universal Café in the Mission District might be the one you’ve been looking for!

Universal Café’s dog-friendly environment, with its great brunch and drinks selection, could be the next spot where you have your weekly brunch and catch-up sessions with your friends!

8. Forge in the Forest – Carmel, California

Courtesy of Forge in the Forest

An establishment with great vibes - from the entrance, to the music, to the garden patio for dogs - Forge in the Forest is a Carmel dog-friendly restaurant offering a pleasant dining experience for furry and less furry patrons. Forge in the Forest provides a "canine cuisine" beyond typical dog treats and bones. If you're looking to dine in a romantic patio and get cozy by a fire pit, then you don't want to skip out on this spot the next time you're in the area, as it’s one of the best dog-friendly patios around!

9. Spencer’s – Palm Springs, California

Pet-friendly patios can go beyond sidewalk bars and restaurants. If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience with your furry friend, then you should add Spencer’s in Palm Springs, California to your dining list! The chic and intimate atmosphere, with its pet-friendly environment, is perfect. Palm Springs perfect!

Fun fact: The restaurant is named after the owner’s dog!

10. The Attic – Long Beach, California

Courtesy of The Attic – Long Beach, California

Looking for some Southern comfort food? Then this 19th-century house with a large dog-friendly outdoor patio in Long Beach, California is a MUST visit. The Attic is known for its laid back atmosphere for folks who love great food and even better company. This Southern restaurant serves brunch and dinner and has excellent cocktails, too. Plus, it features a special dog menu for your furry companions to enjoy as well!

Dog-friendly restaurants in California are easier to find than you might imagine. We’re always exploring new food establishments where we can dine with our dogs and are constantly adding to our list of best dog-friendly patios in the area. After all, the dining experience is always better with a plus one!

Need to drive to these patios?

Sometimes traveling with your companion can be stressful and uncomfortable, but we've got you covered! At Animals Matter, we have car seats, travel benches, travel crate pads, and more, to make your trips easier and more comfortable. Check out our dog car seats for more ideas. 

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Got a pet-friendly spot worth sharing? Share it with us – we love to know about it! Bone-appétit, Cali dogs!

Have we missed some of your fave dog-friendly restaurants? Let us know by commenting below.

*We try our best to make sure all these yummy restaurants are dog-friendly, but sometimes their policy might change. Please call the restaurant ahead of time.