Pet parents all dread those “puppy dog eyes” that break our hearts every time we head for the door. But, thanks to these pet-friendly bars and restaurants, it’s possible to head outside for a bite to eat or a drink with Fido in tow.
Here are some of our favorite spots to check out while the weather is warm.
Wonder Bar
Asbury Park
Are you a fan of happy hour? Then you’ll love Yappy Hour! Asbury Park favorite Wonder Bar plays host to a regular Yappy Hour event on Saturdays and Sundays from 12-6 pm, where pooches and pet parents (who are 21 and over) can have a good time along the beach. Swimming pools are put out for dogs who have grown their sea legs, and a separate, fenced-in area provides a place for Yappy Hour newbies to get used to the environment. The bar’s biggest request? “For the enjoyment and safety of all, we expect our four- legged friends—and our two-legged ones—to be well behaved and well mannered,” notes the website. All doggie guests must be neutered and have a current rabies tag or dog license.
Fifth and Ocean avenues, Asbury Park; 732-455-3767
Rusty Nail
Cape May
The Rusty Nail doesn’t just welcome dogs, it cooks for them. The beloved Cape May eatery has an entire menu devoted to pooches, featuring items such as the Doggie Bowl (grilled chicken or steamed veggies) and the Hot Diggity Dog, a plain, all-beef hot dog without the bun. For dessert, the spot serves up all-natural pup treats.
205 Beach Avenue, Cape May; 609-884-0017
Harpoons on the Bay
Cape May
Harpoons is for dog lovers! During the spring and summer, well-behaved, leashed canines are allowed on the dog deck, in the sand pit and on the tiki-bar patio. So grab a glass of sangria and some food, and enjoy a nice, salty breeze running through your hair…or fur!
91 Beach Drive, North Cape May; 609-886-5529
Leashed dogs are allowed at Departed Soles Brewing Company, both inside the tasting room and outside on the patio. Photo courtesy of Matt Potenski
Departed Soles Brewing Company
Jersey City
Jersey City’s first modern microbrewery invites well-behaved, leashed dogs both outside on the patio and inside in the tasting room. The only caveat? As the brewery cheekily notes on its website, “We just hold them to the same standards as our human friends (clean, don’t make a mess, and not too loud).” While dogs enjoy their water bowls, pet parents can indulge in a variety of craft beers, including a large, award-winning selection of 100 percent gluten-free options.
150 Bay Street #2A, Jersey City; 201-479-8578
The Fox & Falcon
South Orange
The fox, the falcon…and the family dog. Located in the heart of downtown South Orange, this contemporary American eatery welcomes leashed dogs onto its porch. Pooches will enjoy the people watching, while pet parents will adore the delectable seasonal menu (don’t leave without trying one of the restaurant’s cast-iron desserts) and cocktails. Pet parents will likely want to return without Fido for one of the restaurant’s evening activities, which include trivia and karaoke.
19 Valley Street, South Orange; 973-419-6773
Just Jake’s
Montclair
Whether you’re in search of a relaxed bite to eat in the always-fun town of Montclair or want to check out the game on a big screen, Just Jake’s is the place to go. The family-run bar and restaurant is home to an outdoor patio, which welcomes patrons and their leashed dogs to sit and enjoy a meal with the whole family. Because what is a family dinner without the family dog at your feet?
30 Park Street, Montclair; 973-655-8987
Working Dog Winery
Hightstown
Pick a seat on the lush-green grass across from acres of vineyard at this Central Jersey winery. Choose to sip from award-winning estate wines with man’s best friend welcomed at your side. Working Dog Winery hosts live musical guests on the weekends in the afternoon, as well as food trucks stopping in occasionally for (human) chow.
610 Perrineville Road, Hightstown; 609-371-6000
This article first appeared in the Spring/Summer 2022 edition of NorthStar VETS’ Pet Perspective magazine. Read the full issue digitally here.