Manhattan is a bustling hub of culture, cuisine, and creativity, and what better way to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere than with your furry friend by your side? Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a trendy cocktail, there are plenty of dog-friendly spots where you and your pup can drink or eat together – usually on an outdoor patio or other space. Some are heated, while others are only open during the warmer months.
Keep in mind that not all dogs are suited for visiting bars and restaurants. Dogs should be well-behaved and know basic commands – sit, stay, down. If your dog is reactive to either dogs or people, take them for a walk in an uncrowded area instead of going to a bustling restaurant. And if you do take a dog to a public venue, always keep them on a leash.
Here’s a roundup of the best dog-friendly restaurants and bars in Manhattan catering to both humans and their four-legged companions.
1. Barking Dog Restaurant
Located on the Upper East Side near Central Park, Barking Dog Restaurant is a beloved spot for dog lovers with a 5-star review on the site BringFido. This casual eatery features classic American fare including wraps, sandwiches and salads, and a full brunch menu. Don’t forget to try their famous “Pupcakes” — a special treat made just for your furry friend. Dogs are welcome to relax on the dog-friendly patio while their owners indulge in a hearty breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner.
2. The Wilson
If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, The Wilson in the Fashion District is ideal. With an outdoor dining space (heated in winter) adorned with colorful flowers, artwork, and floating umbrellas, this modern restaurant welcomes dogs of all sizes. The menu boasts a mix of traditional Northeastern coastal cuisine, plus unexpected dishes such as brussels sprout tacos. You can sip on creative cocktails while your pup lounges by your feet. The restaurant even has a dog menu with grilled steak, pupsicles and homemade dog biscuits.
3. Amity Hall
Amity Hall in the West Village offers a laid-back atmosphere and a nice outdoor patio for dogs to enjoy. A popular place to watch sports, they also host trivia nights and cornhole contests. They serve classic pub fare, craft cocktails, and offer an extensive beer selection. With happy “hour” running from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., it’s a perfect place for a casual hangout after a long walk in nearby Central Park.
4. Cookshop
A longtime neighborhood favorite in the Chelsea neighborhood, the Cookshop serves consistently excellent New American fare using local and fresh ingredients, reviewers say. Dogs can join if dining outdoors since there’s lovely, expansive sidewalk seating with ample greenery near the iconic High Line trail. Dinner offerings include meat, seafood, pasta and pizza, and they have an extensive brunch menu.
5. Dog & Bone Tavern
With a name like Dog & Bone, you have to be pet-friendly. Indeed, this popular British-themed neighborhood restaurant and bar was inspired by an English Bulldog named Winston. Its “Sit, Stay, Eat” slogan aims to encourage diners to come in and catch up. Dogs are welcome on a sidewalk café that stretches onto a beautiful pedestrian plaza. They advertise “feel good” pub fare, plus a full English breakfast, a wide range of beers, and tasty cocktails.
6. d.b.a.
This New Orleans-themed bar in the East Village specializes in a large, rotating variety of craft beers (100 brews), whiskey and wine. Since the bar does not serve food, dogs can hang out on the roomy back patio, and they’re often allowed indoors. They feature many canine visitors on their Facebook page.
7. Pete’s Tavern
At 160 years old, Pete’s Tavern is NYC’s oldest continuously operating restaurant and bar, in Gramercy Park. Pete’s welcomes dogs in its outdoor seating area, which is heated in the winter. The menu focus is on Italian-American bar food, including burgers, salads and appetizers. The Tavern embraces its historic past, with old photos and fixtures. In the winter, the tavern becomes a cozy hangout as it is decked out with wreaths, Santa figurines and strands of red lights.
8. Shake Shack
No list of dog-friendly dining spots would be complete without mentioning Shake Shack. With multiple locations throughout Manhattan, this iconic burger joint is a favorite among humans and dogs. Every Shake Shack has a specially created dog menu, with homemade treats such as Pooch-ini – a pup-friendly vanilla custard, and red velvet dog biscuits. The company also cares for the welfare of livestock – they require humane treatment of the animals that make up their products.
Conclusion
Manhattan’s dog-friendly dining scene is vibrant and full of options, ensuring you and your pet can enjoy delicious food and drinks together. Whether you’re in the mood for casual fare or a more refined dining experience, these establishments welcome pups with open arms. So next time you plan a meal out, don’t forget to include your socialized dog in the adventure.