Orlando has become a very dog-friendly city, with plenty of spacious dog-friendly parks and trails to explore with your canine companion. People love to go for long strolls in the beautiful weather with their canine family members.
After going for a long walk, it is nice to be able to stop at a restaurant for a late brunch or happy hour and not leave Fido home! Luckily, many Orlando restaurants have opened up their patios or outdoor seating to well-behaved pups. Some restaurants will provide water and maybe a little treat for their doggy patrons (although pet parents should always come prepared with their own water bowl and dog treats!).
The team at Sit Means Sit has compiled some of Orlando’s favorite dog-friendly establishments, as well as how to prepare your dog to be their best canine self at a restaurant!
How to Prepare Your Dog to Go to a Restaurant
Firstly, does the restaurant even allow dogs? Check their pet policy!
Ask yourself, will your dog be comfortable and well-behaved at a restaurant? If they are well-socialized, know their basic commands, and can ignore strangers, they will probably be great patio dogs. However, if your dog is anxious around or they cannot stop begging for food from others, they will be better off at home!
Finally, always bring a leash and water bowl for your dog. For their safety, dogs should be leashed and have access to fresh water when out in public.
How to Find a Dog-Friendly Restaurant
Before taking your pup to your favorite restaurant, plan ahead by making sure they will be welcomed. You can check their pet-policy by going to their website, social media, or give them a call! Many restaurants allow well-behaved dogs to enjoy their outdoor seating, but always check their pet policy!
Top 3 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Orlando, FL
#1 Rock & Brews
Location: 6897 S Semoran Blvd, Orlando, FL, US, 32822
Contact: (407) 512-9383
Rock & Brews serves up delicious food on a dog-friendly patio. Lounge with your friend or relax with your dog, enjoying their fire pits and live music. Choose from their menu of bar and grill classics, like Bavarian pretzels, chicken wings, unique burgers, ribs, chicken pasta, and sandwiches. They even have pizzas to enjoy with your friends around the fire. Don’t forget to get a root beer float or famous bread pudding and to get your pup a treat from their dog menu!
#2 Teak Neighborhood Grill
Location: 6400 Times Square Ave, Orlando, FL, US, 32835
Contact: (407) 313-5111
Teak Neighborhood Grill offers flatbreads, burgers, chicken pesto pasta, and steaks as well as dog-friendly tables. They have a wonderful atmosphere, perfect for date night or a large party out celebrating. Their dog-friendly outdoor seating welcomes your furry best friend so they can join in on the festivities!
#3 Cafe Tu Tu Tango
Location: 8625 International Dr, Orlando, FL, US, 32819-9334
Contact: (407) 248-2222
Cafe Tu Tu Tango in Orlando, FL is dog-friendly and has something for everyone! Their menu includes many vegan and gluten-free options, including brick oven pizza and flatbreads, tacos, sliders, salads, and steaks. Sip on a beer, wine, cocktail, or sangria, while enjoying the covered outdoor patio with your pup!
Dogs should know their basic commands while being well-behaved around distractions, strangers, and food, before being welcomed at restaurants with dog-friendly outdoor seating. If they can calmly lie at their owner’s feet or under the table, there is no reason these good dogs cannot enjoy happy hour with their owners.
Always double check a restaurant’s dog-policies, and don’t forget to bring a water bowl and leash. For a fun night out with music and a fire pit, grab a burger or pretzel from Rock & Brews at their spacious dog-friendly outdoor area. Or try Teak Neighborhood Grill for a special night out with your family, dog included. If you are vegan, have a special diet, or simply love a delicious handcrafted cocktail, check out Cafe Tu Tu Tango, and enjoy the covered patio with your furry best friend.