As we get closer to fall and some beautiful autumn weather, it’s a great time to take your pups with you for some outdoor dining. Here are some of the top rated dog-friendly restaurants in the greater Raleigh area:
Wake Forest: Norse Brewing Company
Address: 203 Brooks St, Wake Forest
Google Rating: 4.4
Norse Brewing has covered outdoor seating in both the front and rear of the restaurant. As a brewery, they have a large selection of draft beers as well as unique cocktails. There are regular drink and food specials available. The menu has some interesting options like frikadellar and mussels. Personally, I have enjoyed their beet salad, hot soft pretzel with spicy mustard, fried chicken sandwich, and their skinny fries. They will get fresh water for your pups, and the seating areas are shaded. The front patio is on the smaller side, but it also has ceiling fans. We’ve been known to share a little of the chicken with our fur babies….
North Raleigh: Gonza Tacos
Address: 7713 Lead Mine Rd, Raleigh (does this count as North Raleigh? I will let you decide based on whether you view “North Raleigh” as north of 440 or north of 540! They also have a Wake Forest location.)
Google Rating: 4.5
Sope Saturday? Salsa Sunday? Margarita Monday? Taco Tuesday? If you need an excuse for Mexican food out, I can get you one. Gonza has covered patio seating where your pups can be comfortable. They can get fresh water and maybe a few other morsels. Gonza has a good selection of beers on tap, and of course, margaritas. They have yummy tacos, quesadillas, and more- but my favorite dish is the Mexican Flag enchiladas. I have tried these enchiladas (usually called banderas) at dozens of restaurants, and Gonza tops my list for the best ones. Honestly I still haven’t decided if I like the bean, steak, or chicken enchilada best. Or if I like the red, white, or green sauce best…I better go order it again… but back to the dogs- the environment is fun and lively with enough shade for them to be comfortable.
Downtown Raleigh:Trophy Brewing and Pizza
Address: 827 W Morgan St, Raleigh
Google Rating: 4.5
What’s better than pizza and beer? Trophy has a wide selection of beers including draft and seasonal selections. The menu is fresh and features regular new additions. There is Detroit-style pizza and multiple sizes for classics like margherita and pepperoni. There are spicy options like the Daredevil, and local options like the Farmer’s Market. There is a covered patio with artificial grass and heaters for comfort. Dogs will love watching the city scene and seeing all the people. Novelty and special pizzas keep the menu interesting; there is always something new to try.
Cary: Woody’s
Address: 8322 Chapel Hill Rd, Cary
Google Rating: 4.2
Woody’s has been a staple of Cary since 1993. There are multiple outdoor patio tables and waitresses will bring water for the doggies. There is a wide variety of beer options along with drink specials. The fare includes standard bar fare like wings, burgers, and fried pickles. The restaurant has a very friendly staff and the atmosphere is fun.
Fuquay-Varina: Aviator Brewing TapHouse
Address: 600 E Broad St, Fuquay-Varina
Google Rating: 4.2
Aviator TapHouse is a craft brewery with lots of outdoor seating, located in the historic Varina train depot. They have scratch-made food, drink specials, and live music on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The menu includes smash burgers, wings, and fun challenges for both. Can you eat three ½ pound burgers and more in 30 minutes? Can you eat 12 loco hot wings in 15 minutes? (Don’t share those with the dogs!) There are tons of beer and specialty drink options, so this is a great place for local beer lovers.
Since the weather and the restaurant policies can change, make sure to check both before heading out to dinner with your dog. It may be hard to get patio seating on busy evenings, so it is always best to check first.
What is Your Favorite Dog Friendly Restaurant?
Did we miss any great spots? We would love to hear from you about your top Triangle restaurant picks where dogs are welcome guests. Enjoy the fall weather and foodie fun with your pup!
Peak City Puppy: https://peakcitypuppy.com/
