Are you a dog lover and you live in Florida or are planning to visit Florida? Why leave your precious pooch at home or in the hotel when you can bring him with you? Let’s take a look at five of the best-rated dog-friendly restaurants located in Florida.
Sail Pavilion on the Riverwalk
Located in Tampa, Florida, Sail Pavilion on the Riverwalk is an open-air, waterfront retreat that caters to humans and doggies alike. Complete with stainless steel water bowls and a cleanup station, Sail Pavilion even has dog cuisine on their menu! In addition to offering free dog treats, they serve Frosty Paws and Mr. Barksmith Doggie Smoothies. They also have much to offer the dogs’ human counterparts. Along with a full bar, Sail Pavilion has a light menu of sandwiches, salads and snacks. If you have been enjoying a day of boating in Seddon Channel, just pull your boat up to their restaurant and you and Fido can enjoy a special afternoon.
GrillSmith
Head over to GrillSmith in the Carrollwood area of Tampa with your dog, where they will be welcomed to eat with you in their big outdoor seating area. They even offer what is called a ‘Yappy Hour’ on the third Tuesday of each month, where you can mingle with other dogs and dog lovers. This upscale restaurant serves premium cuisine such as filet mignon and Chimichurri steak, fresh off the grill. They also have grilled specials such as Spicy Thai Shrimp, crunchy Ahi Tuna and Lemon Feta chicken. The average price of an entrée is about $15. GrillSmith has received many recommendations from local publications. They won the “Best in the Biz: Reader’s Choice” award by the Tampa Bay Business Journal in 2014 and “Best Restaurant” in a 2014 local Dining Survey to name a few.
Blue Heaven
Blue Heaven restaurant is every bit as eccentric as you would expect from Key West. You are welcome to bring your dog with you, as long as they can handle all of the chickens and cats that roam around the property. Dine al fresco with a canopy of tropical trees above your table. Located in the historic Bahama Village, Blue Heaven is full of funky artwork and whimsical décor. Known for their delicious breakfast, Blue Heaven offers menu items such as homemade granola, pecan pancakes and shrimp and grits. For lunch and dinner, enjoy fresh seafood selections that arrive daily. Don’t let the casual atmosphere fool you. Blue Heaven serves gourmet cuisine such as Scallops Provençale and Portobello Mushrooms.
Dexter’s of Thornton Park
Go and experience something new with your dog at Dexter’s of Thornton Park in Orlando. They have a dinner menu that changes every month. They offer a fun and relaxed atmosphere for you and your dog in the heart of Downtown Orlando. They cook their foods with only locally-grown vegetables and gourmet organic ingredients. Visit Dexter’s on Tuesday nights to take advantage of their $1 Burger Nite special. Bring along the kids as they have a kids’ menu. Their dinner specialties include Eggplant Napoleon and Baked Brie. This restaurant does take reservations, so call ahead if you wish. Enjoy their selection of over 30 red and white wines, champagne, ports and sherries, sold by the glass.
The Island Cow
Located on Sanibel Island, The Island Cow is another restaurant that welcomes dogs on their covered outdoor patio seating area. Specializing in seafood, The Island Cow serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy a fun and delicious menu selection such as Voodoo Scallops or their Mack Daddy Shrimp Dinner. They also have a menu for the kids with standbys such as pizza, cheeseburgers and macaroni and cheese. They serve Starbucks® coffee for breakfast in their airy seating table that are large enough to fit a family of 8. At dinnertime, dine outdoors while you listen to live music.