Want to take your pup to the pub? You’re living in the right city. Sydney is incredibly dog-friendly: along with parks, beaches and cafes, more and more bars are open to canine customers. From beer gardens to cocktail bars, these are the best dog-friendly bars in Sydney that will make your furry friend feel welcome – and some will even whip up special snacks or host events just for them. Now that’s what we call a happy hour.
The Vic on the Park
For a sweet Sunday session, head to The Vic, where dogs aren’t just allowed, they’re adored. So much so, they have their own Instagram hashtag: #dogsofthevic. The pub has a back deck and a carpark-come-stage, which often hosts dog shows. There are water bowls and Schmackos on hand, and a park across the road if your pup gets restless.
2 Addison Road, Marrickville
The Greens North Sydney
Northside? Free to bring the whole family to this neighbourhood favourite. Dogs are more than welcome in the Courtyard and Aviary areas, so settle in for a BBQ lunch, cheese board or jug of Pimms - or all three – before hitting the green for barefoot bowls. If your pooch is itching to roam off the leash, St Leonard’s Park is next door.
50 Ridge Street, North Sydney
Public House Petersham
Over in the Inner West, this trendy pub has a solid four-legged following. While they’re welcome throughout the venue, the most popular spot is the beer garden, a covered outdoor area that hosts an annual ‘Doggy Day.’ On any given day, there are dog treats on offer, as well as woodfired pizzas, roasts and rustic fare for the humans in your party.
292 Stanmore Road, Petersham
Top tip: The Erko also allows dogs, and has water bowls and nibbles on hand to keep them happy.
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The Winery
Around the corner, The Winery’s chic laneway garden is the perfect place to sip on rose in the sun. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Crown Street, the leafy courtyard has city views and a serious case of puppy love. Dogs are permitted, so you can work your way through the illustrious wine list with yours by your side.
285A Crown Street, Surry Hills
Top tip: If you want to be outside but The Winery is packed, The Beresford’s beer garden is also dog-friendly.
The Norfolk
When happy hour rolls around, head to The Norfolk. Its beer garden is buzzing every night, thanks to its casual vibe, creative cocktails, and cheap eats. If you brought your dog to the office, there’s no need to swing home: they can roam around the beer garden, as well as the Walker Street side of the venue.
305 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills
The Newport
Sitting pretty on the Northern Beaches, this mega-pub flings open its doors to dogs (provided they stay on a lead). So, whether you want to play ping-pong, feast on a bucket of fresh prawns, or soak up the sunshine, your pooch is free to join in. There’s a kids’ area, too, so why not make it a family fun day?
2 Kalinya Street, Newport
Manly Wine
Another Northern Beaches gem, this beach house is a café, restaurant and wine bar rolled into one. With a prime position on Manly’s beachfront, it entices locals and their pets to cool down with a cocktail, taste-test a new wine, and tuck into a seafood platter. As you can imagine, the wine list is impressive, while the menu focuses on fresh produce.
8-13 S Steyne, Manly
The Carrington
At this laidback Surry Hills pub, you can drink and dine with your dog in tow – they’re free to roam almost everywhere, so long as they’re on a leash. The pub also puts on pet-centric events, and cooks up doggy dishes, including beef tartare and steak and veggies for $6.
565 Bourke Street, Surry Hills
The Duck Inn Pub & Kitchen
Chippendale is Sydney’s newest foodie hub, and this gastropub fits in well. At The Duck Inn, the menu is anything but average (think eight-hour braised lamb shoulder and a duck tasting plate), and can be enjoyed in the cosy indoor space or beer garden. When you have your pup, join the other four-legged pub patrons outside.
74 Rose Street, Chippendale
Made your way through these dog-friendly bars and looking for more foodie things to do? Be sure to check out our round-up on the best rooftop bars in Sydney and read up on the best new restaurant openings in town.