We all love our pets, and it's so much fun to take them along with us to dinner or for a drink with friends. This is especially true here in Dayton. Luckily, in 2018, the Governor of Ohio passed a bill that gave restaurants the right to decide whether or not dogs could join their owners on the patio. Dogs still aren't allowed inside restaurants or bars. However, they can be on patios at the establishment's discretion. This decision was a huge move forward in allowing restaurants and bars in Dayton to welcome our furry friends finally!
They say a dog is a man's best friend, and why wouldn't you take your best friend to dinner or out for a drink? So grab your keys and dog, hop in your new Chevrolet, and head to one of these fun spots. Of course, it's always important to be courteous and follow restaurant guidelines for how dogs should be leashed and where they can accompany you. Make sure you bring a dish of water and dog-specific snacks. If you're looking for dog-friendly bars and restaurants in the Dayton, Ohio, area, we have the list for you.
Photo via Unsplash by Adam Griffith Used Under Unsplash License
Wheat Penny Oven and Bar
Wheat Penny Oven and Bar is a pizza restaurant with personality. Their owners go to great lengths to describe how unique and intentional they are with their food, and it shows. Wheat Penny also proudly advertises itself as dog-friendly and provides some great guidance on its website about how to bring your dog along. They request that half of their patio remain dog-free so that guests who prefer to be outside away from other dogs still have their space.
Fifth Street Brewpub
If you're looking for a classic pub for a pint of ale, look no further than Fifth Street Brewpub in St. Anne's Hill Neighborhood. Fifth Street is a co-op pub housed in a historic building from 1856, and they pride themselves on the history their establishment contains. You can sit outside on the patio with your furry friend while you enjoy a tall beer and some delicious grub. You can even try their weekend brunch sometime!
The Trolley Stop
Down the street from Fifth Street, you'll find The Trolley Stop. Its tavern has been in operation since 1839, making it the oldest in Dayton. Their pride and joy are their delicious cocktails, fresh food, and live music. They also have a charming dog-friendly patio, which some have called the best in the city. Take your pup along and order one of their signature cocktails (we're going to recommend the Trolley Side Car).
Toxic Brew Company
There's nothing like a cold, fresh craft beer to settle you into a weekend or an after-work drink. Toxic Brew Company has been welcoming patrons for over 50 years in its central downtown Dayton location. Their outdoor patio is dog friendly, so you can tuck into one of their many Toxic Brews or rotating taps while enjoying the view of the Oregon District.
Lily's Dayton
Lily's Dayton (previously Lily's Bistro) has three outdoor patios with plenty of space to bring along your furry friends. Their ambiance is tropical and warm, and they aim to be a budget-conscious option for everyone. Their happy hour is especially appetizing with both food and drink specials. They are still operating on limited capacity, so be sure to call them ahead of time if you plan on going through!
Milanos
Milanos is a pizza, subs, and beer joint that's all about quality food brought by friendly servers in a cozy atmosphere. Everything is made fresh on-site, with crusts that never have preservatives and are not pre-frozen. They're also a sports bar, so the vibe is guaranteed to pick up on a weekend afternoon. The outdoor patio has ample space for dogs, and they're happy to host your well-behaved pooch. With their community initiative, you can feel good about that beer and pizza you just ate.
Mudlick Tap House
Mudlick Tap House has a large outdoor area along the street where dogs are welcome to sit with their families. Mudlick advertises a solid yet straightforward concept: craft beer, scratch foods, and a unique atmosphere. Their menu includes signature cocktails, high-end craft beer, and chef-inspired food. Sit outside and enjoy something delicious from their menu while your dog rests beside you. Their location on 2nd Street also makes it a great people-watching spot.
Old Scratch Pizza & Beer
Old Scratch Pizza & Beer has two locations, one in Dayton and one in Centreville. Their beer menu is updated regularly and currently features 20 rotating taps. They have an incredible pizza menu, categorized by reds (marinara sauce) and whites (Bianco sauce), with something for absolutely everyone. Or get one of their "share" plates, such as the whole roasted cauliflower, or stracciatella, if you'd like to try something other than the pizza. Their outdoor patio is dog-friendly, and one of the things reviewers rave about.
Be Prepared For Your Doggy Date
While this list is as current as possible, we always recommend checking in with the restaurant or bar beforehand to make sure they haven't changed their policies. Be sure to take freshwater (while some places provide this, it's not compulsory) and feed your dog before you go, so they don't beg off others. Please keep your dog close to you, as not all diners may want a dog in their personal space. And practice common courtesy; if your dog gets overly excited and begins barking, or doesn't get along with another animal there, be willing to step away.
There's nothing like bringing your furry best friend along for a dinner date or drinks on the patio with friends. Why not pack up your Chevrolet (make sure Fido is properly buckled in), and try out a new patio in town? Luckily, there are nearly endless options in the Dayton area for dog-friendly restaurants and bars. Did we miss your favorite pet-friendly spot? Let us know!