When “the whole family” includes a fluffy goldendoodle or sleek spaniel, the number of indoor restaurants able to accommodate four paws dwindles, but summer dining in the Ocean State means no shortage of patios, docks, and breweries eager to welcome well-behaved canine companions.
“We absolutely adore our four-legged customers!” says Andreea Marin, founder of Kaffeology, where good dogs are greeted with treats and water dishes inside, puppuccinos made with whipped cream are on the menu, and at their Portsmouth location, a wraparound porch is perfect for soaking up the rays. “I have two dogs myself, and I know how hard it can be taking them out. Always make sure your dog is accustomed to being around loud environments and people so they feel safe,” Marin advises.
The key to a happy pet-friendly outing for all is to know your dog. At Diego’s Newport, star pets are rewarded with special bandanas (and Insta fame), but owner Scott Kirmil acknowledges that the patio scene isn’t for every pup. “I own an amazing shepherd who we love but would never bring him to a restaurant as he can be aggressive to new dogs when on a leash and gets nervous in crowds,” says Kirmil. “If your dog is a chill sweetheart who lets anyone pet them, doesn’t get aggressive with other dogs, and will just lay under a table and be content in a busy environment, they are a perfect restaurant dog!”
Once you’ve evaluated Fido’s ability to play nice, a good way to test the waters is a brewery that allows animal guests. “We make in-house dog treats from spent grain, peanut butter, egg, and flour,” shares West Passage Brewing Company owner Scott Monroe. “Dogs love them, and while we do give them to all visiting furry friends, they are also available for a donation to the local pet shelter.” Apponaug Brewing also offers their own snacks devised from spelt grain, a byproduct ingredient from the brewing process, and Lops Brewing carries bags of Lucy’s Dog Biscuits, which are made at Millrace Kitchen in Woonsocket using spelt grains from Bravo Brewing in Pascoag.
To show their love of our furry family members, many Rhody establishments host events supporting pet causes, too. If dog patrons backdropped by trailers and fire pits at Ogie’s isn’t cute enough, they have also hosted a Dog Toy Drive for Shelter to Sofa, are working on organizing summer Pups on the Patio events in support of Providence Animal Rescue League, and a recent Kitten Shower even shed some love on feline friends in need.
Lots of statewide restaurants with outdoor areas welcome pets – here’s just a handful of spots accommodating well-behaved dogs.
Apponaug Brewing, Warwick
Diego’s Newport
Gulf Stream Bar & Grille, Portsmouth
The Industrious Spirit Company, Providence
Jiggers South, North Kingstown
Kaffeology, Newport & Portsmouth
Lops Brewing, Woonsocket
Narragansett Brewery, Providence
Ogie’s Trailer Park, Providence
The Patio on Main, East Greenwich
Ragged Island Brewing Company, Portsmouth
Rejects Beer Co., Middletown
Shannon View Inn, Warwick
Slice of Heaven, Jamestown
West Passage Brewing Co., North Kingstown
Whalers Brewing Company, South Kingstown
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