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Pet-Friendly Places to Eat (That Humans Will Love Too)


Dining out doesn’t have to mean leaving your four-legged companion at home. Across the country, a wave of pet-friendly cafés and restaurants are ensuring that man’s best friend can be part of your next brunch, lunch or long-overdue catch-up.

These aren’t just casual patios with water bowls - they’re venues that care about creating a warm welcome for both two-legged and four-legged guests, where menus are crafted with flair and settings invite you to linger longer. Here are five pet-friendly dining destinations where the food’s as memorable as the atmosphere.

McGinns of Kenilworth – Kenilworth, Qld

Tucked into the charming town of Kenilworth, McGinns is a café that champions slow mornings, great coffee and the kind of food that fuels adventurers and locals alike. Set along leafy Elizabeth Street, it’s the ideal place to pull up a seat outdoors with your pup, shaded by umbrellas and surrounded by lush potted greenery. Inside, rustic charm rules with warm timber finishes and display cabinets brimming with homemade treats.

Pet-Friendly Places to Eat (That Humans Will Love Too)

Start your day strong with the spin on eggs Benedict - served on toasted Turkish pide, layered with baby spinach, tender pulled pork and draped in velvety Hollandaise. It’s hearty, satisfying and the perfect match for a barista-made flat white. After a walk through town or a local bush trail, this café is just the ticket.

Don’t forget to bring your furry mate along - book your table in advance.

Royal Brighton Yacht Club – Brighton, Vic

Few venues capture relaxed coastal dining quite like the Royal Brighton Yacht Club. Set right on the Brighton beachfront, this venue is the epitome of laid-back luxury, with an expansive deck overlooking the marina - ideal for enjoying the sea breeze with your dog by your side. Indoors, the coastal décor continues with breezy seating and timeless touches that let the view take centre stage.

Pet-Friendly Places to Eat (That Humans Will Love Too)

Breakfast is an event here, especially when you’re enjoying toasted crumpets topped with salmon gravlax, prawns, caviar bush tomato pearls and a drizzle of dill oil. Later in the day, pizzas, seafood and grilled favourites like ribeye on the bone make it a prime spot for long, lingering lunches.

Make a booking and enjoy a meal with a view.

Café Kin – Nelson Bay, NSW

There’s a reason Café Kin stays top of mind long after you leave. This Nelson Bay gem combines homely hospitality with a playful energy that’s perfect for sun-drenched brunches. Whether you choose a cushioned indoor corner or a sunny courtyard seat with your pup, the vibe is always welcoming, relaxed and real.

Pet-Friendly Places to Eat (That Humans Will Love Too)

The menu walks the line between comfort and creativity. Chilli scrambled eggs on sourdough bring the heat, while the salmon and avocado bagel delivers freshness in every bite. Don’t miss the signature loaded banana bread - topped with mascarpone or coconut yoghurt, seasonal fruit and Kin’s house caramel espresso sauce.

Craving a coastal bite with your dog beside you? Book your next visit to Café Kin today.

Saint Helen Café – Hawthorn, Vic

On Riversdale Road, Saint Helen Café has carved out a loyal following thanks to its commitment to quality and community. From its rustic brick exterior to the cosy, cushion-filled interior, it’s a space that feels like home - only with much better coffee. Out front, the pet-friendly tables make it a perfect spot to soak up the morning sun with your dog curled at your feet.

Pet-Friendly Places to Eat (That Humans Will Love Too)

The food is as vibrant as the atmosphere. Early risers rave about the scrambled eggs with Manchego, chilli, spring onion and Parmesan, served over sourdough. For something even heartier, the potato rosti comes loaded with grilled halloumi, crumbed mushrooms, smoked salmon and more.

Grab your leash and lock in a table for your next brunch at Saint Helen.

Whether you’re chasing sun-soaked decks, garden nooks or inner-city charm, these cafés and restaurants prove that dining out can be just as enjoyable for your dog as it is for you - because good food and great company shouldn’t come with a leash limit.

Featured Locations

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McGinns of Kenilworth

Set on Elizabeth Street, McGinn’s of Kenilworth is a delightful café providing the ideal spot to sit back with a brew and bite and watch the world pass by. Take a seat alfresco under market umbrell...

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Cafe Kin

When you leave, you will already be thinking about coming back to Café Kin on Stockton Street in Nelson Bay. Whether you are wanting to tuck yourself away on one of the comfy yet regal couches, or ...

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Saint Helen Cafe

Food, coffee and people are what avid Hawthorn foodies come to Saint Helen Café on Riversdale Road for as they refuel and recharge to start their day the right way. A rustic well-worn brick façade ...

Modern Australian    $$$$$

Royal Brighton Yacht Club

Those seeking a relaxed, family-friendly restaurant right on the beachfront in Brighton head to Royal Brighton Yacht Club on the Esplanade. Sit on the deck overlooking the marina and Port Phillip B...

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