Toronto is a foodie’s paradise, and luckily, it’s just as welcoming for your furry sidekick. Whether you’re strolling downtown, hanging out in Queen West, or heading to the Beaches, you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly restaurants where both you and your pup can enjoy a good meal (or at least a fresh bowl of water).
Here’s a guide to some of the best spots around the city.
Top Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Toronto
1. Black Lab Brewing (Leslieville)
Opened in 2018 and inspired by Snoopy, a beloved black Labrador mix, Black Lab Brewing was built with community (and dogs) in mind. This brewery has become a favorite gathering spot where canine companions are welcome alongside their humans. Sip on IPAs, sours, or pale ales while your dog relaxes at your side. With pop-up food stands instead of a fixed menu, every visit feels a little different, and the dog-friendly patio makes it easy to bring your best friend along.
2. The Goodman Pub and Kitchen (Downtown, Harbourfront)
Set along the waterfront with views of Lake Ontario and Centre Island, The Goodman Pub & Kitchen is a welcoming spot for both people and pets. Their pet-friendly patio even offers a dog menu, so your dog can enjoy their own treat while you dig into contemporary or classic pub dishes. With a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of space, it’s the perfect stop for a meal after a lakeside walk.
3. The Stone Lion (The Beaches)
Located right in the heart of The Beaches, The Stone Lion is a favorite for dog owners who love to pair a lakeside walk with a good meal. Both of their patios welcome dogs, one even heated and covered, so you and your companion can stop by no matter the season. Alongside the relaxed, pet-friendly vibe, The Stone Lion serves up an impressive drink menu with 24 beers on tap, more than 30 craft cans, and a strong cocktail lineup.
4. Café Pamenar (Kensington Market)
Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s liveliest neighborhoods, but Café Pamenar offers a peaceful oasis for dog owners. Tucked along Augusta Avenue, this café has not one but two patios, a bustling front spot for people-watching, and a quieter back patio where you and your dog can unwind. It’s the perfect place to pause during a walk through Kensington. Order a coffee or light snack for yourself, and your dog can settle in with a bowl of water while you both take a break from the market buzz.
Cafés and Brunch Spots
Toronto takes its brunch seriously, and luckily, there are plenty of places where dogs are welcome, too. Here are a few worth checking out:
1. Lazy Daisy’s Café (Little India): Tucked just off the main stretch in Little India, Lazy Daisy’s Café is a long-time favorite for breakfast and brunch, and now boasts a gorgeous, dog-friendly patio designed by HGTV’s Tiffany Pratt. Bright, leafy, and fully fenced, the space has a “secret garden” feel that makes it easy for dogs to relax safely while their humans enjoy buttermilk biscuits and weekend bubbles.
2. Jimmy’s Coffee (Multiple Locations): In Riverside, Jimmy’s Coffee hides a cozy back patio that feels worlds away from the bustle of Queen East. It’s the perfect stop to recharge with your dog in tow, grab one of their seasonal drinks, settle into the leafy space, and enjoy a quiet pause together before heading back into the city’s energy.
3. Hemingway’s (Yorkville): A Yorkville staple with New Zealand roots, Hemingway’s blends a laid-back pub vibe with a bustling, trendy atmosphere. With 24 beers on tap and a full kitchen serving late into the night, it’s a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Best of all, their year-round front patio is dog-friendly, so your companion can join you for a pint or a meal no matter the season.
Tips for Dining Out with Dogs
Bringing your dog to restaurants can be a rewarding experience, but preparation makes it easier for everyone:
- Pack the basics: A leash, a collapsible water bowl, and a few favorite snacks will help your dog feel at ease.
- Choose quieter times: Off-peak hours are easier on dogs who may feel anxious in crowded spaces.
- Practice good etiquette: Keep your dog close to you, avoid letting them approach other tables, and always clean up after them.
Toronto is filled with dog-friendly restaurants, patios, and cafés that make dining out a treat for both you and your dog. From craft breweries in Leslieville to cozy cafés in Kensington and scenic lakeside patios, there’s no shortage of spots to enjoy together.
So grab the leash, pick a spot, and enjoy Toronto’s vibrant food scene together.
Recent Comments