In 2010, the efforts of the group Paws on Patios made it possible for restaurants to get permits allowing dogs at outdoor patio seating. Since then, residents have taken advantage of the change, and dog-friendly restaurants and bars have become a popular feature of the city. If you’re looking for dog-friendly locations in Houston, try these spots. 

Heights Bier Garten - Houston Heights

Photo courtesy of Heights Bier Garten

Residents of Houston Heights can enjoy the outdoor patios at the Heights Bier Garten. The Garten keeps a selection of 94 craft beers on tap in addition to serving up wine and cocktails. There’s also food including classic cheeseburgers, smoked salmon, pork shank, and more. The Heights Bier Garten has one patio table after another in the outside seating area, leaving plenty of room to bring your furry friend along. This makes for a great chance to meet other dog owners who live in the area, too.

Antidote - Woodland Heights

Photo courtesy of Antidote

Antidote is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxing afternoon. Antidote serves up plenty of coffee alongside mate lattes, cafe au lait, and hot tea. Anyone wanting to avoid caffeine can instead opt to have a glass of wine instead. Regardless of your choice, you’ll be able to bring your dog along if you decide to take a seat outside. There you’ll be able to sit underneath the parasols that decorate the tables and listen to the local musicians who perform from time to time. Head over to the Woodland Heights whether you’re looking for wine or coffee in the afternoon. 

Barnaby’s Cafe - Hyde Park

Photo courtesy of Barnaby’s Cafe

Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Barnaby’s Cafe has you covered. Located in neighborhoods across Houston, among the most popular Barnaby’s is near Hyde Park. There, you can order anything from chicken fried steak and eggs to a plate of Coronado beef or grilled salmon filet. You can also enjoy a glass of wine as you relax at the cafe. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that a cafe whose mascot is a sheepdog and whose walls are lined with dog portraits is welcoming to dog owners. Bring your companion along to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere with you. 

Petrol Station - Garden Oaks

Photo courtesy of Petrol Station

If you’re in the Garden Oaks area and feel like having a drink in a unique atmosphere, then head over to the Petrol Station. The cafe is located in a converted filling station, and it now serves up classic treats like cheeseburgers and fries, corned beef Reuben sandwiches, and pulled pork sandwiches. You can also opt for the shepherd’s pie or some fish tacos. Grab a drink and some food, then take a seat anywhere on the outside patio. The open-air seating is great for owners who want to take their dog out, especially during the cool spring weather. 

Cane Rosso - Montrose

Photo courtesy of Cane Rosso

The Austin import Cane Rosso absolutely loves dogs. Located in Montrose, visitors will find photos of canine friends from the moment they arrive. A packed menu includes food like beef meatballs, fried calamari, baked rigatoni, eggplant parmesan sandwiches, and Caesar salads. There’s also a menu for the kids. Grab a seat outside, and you’ll most likely find that you’re not the only dog loving guest here. 

Giacomo’s Cibo e Vino - River Oaks

Photo courtesy of Giacomo’s Cibo e Vino

Want to wind down your day with a glass of wine and a goat cheese baguette? Head over to Giacomo’s Cibo e Vino. This casual Italian cafe is a neighborhood favorite in the River Oaks area and serves up a fairly hearty wine selection, from the light pinot grigio to the rose d’Anjou. There’s also a delicious menu that includes vegetarian options, pasta, marinated chicken, and more. Plus, the outdoor patio is a relaxing spot where you can sit under the shade of an umbrella. Bring your dog pal along and enjoy the afternoon while your companion.