
Dog sitting at a table in a cafe. Photo by Julia Suhareva.
Our guide to Houston dog-friendly restaurants and bars will ensure both you and your pup have plenty of welcoming spots—and tasty food to go along with them.
Is there a sadder feeling than leaving your dog at home when you go out? They really turn on the puppy dog eyes and do that slight head tilt, maybe letting out a whimper just to add to the guilt. Luckily, with dog-friendly restaurants, you can avoid that mountain of emotion and bring your cuddle bug with you.
Even better, Houston has several welcoming dog-friendly restaurants and bars. Not only can your pup join you by your side, but many of these spaces also have dog-specific items on the menu.
Check out our guide to 12 dog-friendly restaurants and bars to take your pups to in Houston—plus a few fun treats to order!
1. Barnaby’s Cafe
Multiple locations
As soon as you visit Barnaby’s Cafe, you’re immediately greeted by the cafe’s namesake, a big sheepdog named Barnaby. Barnaby died when owner Jeff Gale was 12, but he’s kept his memory alive spectacularly. Gale dreams of Barnaby traveling around the world, doing activities like snorkeling in the sea or visiting the pyramids of Egypt.
As you dine, just remember to avoid the three B’s: begging, barking, and biting. And as tempting as it is, don’t let your pup sneak a bite off your plate. Instead, grab a complimentary bowl of water and order them their own goodies, like a doggie ice cream, or ground beef, sliced chicken breast, or scrambled eggs over brown rice.
2. Hearsay at Levy Park
3728 Wakeforest St., Houston
Hearsay has multiple locations around the greater Houston area (and more to come in other parts of the state), but the restaurant at Levy Park is a standout for four-legged friends. The outdoor patio has the same chic, elegant charm as the interior, with ample shade keeping you and your pup out of the heat.
More importantly, Hearsay has one of the most elaborate dog-friendly menus in town. The Quarter Hounder, Chasin’ Chicken, and Salmon en PUPillote are all pawsome choices.
3. Rudyard’s
2010 Waugh Drive, Houston
If you’re looking for more casual digs for your dogs, Rudyard’s is about as chill as you can get. Grab some tasty pub fare from Rudyard’s (the Parmaggeddon is cheese-tastic) or order from Gold Tooth Tony’s when you’re in more of a pizza vibe. And more than 30 beers are on tap, so you’ll stay hydrated with your dog.
You get a lot of food with your order, which means a hamburger might require a little canine assistance. It’s also worth checking out The Riot Comedy Club within Rudyard’s walls, though you’ll have to leave your best friend home for that. Alas, an “awoooooo!” sounds too much like a “booooo,” and no comedian wants to hear that.
4. Lazy Dog
Multiple locations
Lazy Dog isn’t exclusively local to Houston—there are multiple locations around the city and several in other states—but that doesn’t stop it from being a welcoming place for dogs. The outdoor area is spacious for a good sniffing adventure, and furry friends are allowed inside, as well. Lazy Dog also offers a few menu items specifically for dogs, including chicken or beef meals with rice and veggies.

5. Southern Yankee Crafthouse
1312 W. Alabama St., Houston
This gastropub has only been around since 2021, but Southern Yankee Crafthouse has already made a name for itself. The pizza gets top billing here, and understandably so, with options like the Duck Duck Shroom and Pear & Bleu. With over 15 local beers on tap and an impressive array of craft cocktails, you’ll find plenty to enjoy across the menu. Your pet will too.
There are dog-friendly restaurants in Houston, and then there are restaurants with people who want to be friends with your dogs. Southern Yankee Crafthouse falls into the latter category, and your very good boy or girl will get all the attention they can handle at the shaded front or back patio.
6. The Dog Bar
2404 Montrose Blvd., Houston
Considering it’s Houston’s first bar specifically for dogs, The Dog Bar had to make this list. There’s space up front for humans to kick up their feet and watch their dogs meet and greet others on the turfed area. As adults sip on beverages designed for people, pups can get lit with some puptails (metaphorically, of course. There’s no alcohol in these cocktails). The Doggy on the Beach is a classic, and the Dog Shots have approximately a 10% chance of summoning Lil’ Jon and LMFAO and a near-100% chance of making your hound happy.
7. The Gypsy Poet
2404 Austin St., Houston
1050 Studewood St., Houston
Your pup could be a poet and not even know it! The dog-friendly patio of The Gypsy Poet is open to all, whether your dog is huge or extra small. These pizza pies turn visitors into lip-smackers, so try the Cinque Formaggi or the Fancy Backpacker. As you chow, save a bit of crust, because sharing with your pooch is an absolute must.
8. The Pit Room
1201 Richmond Ave., Houston
You may recognize The Pit Room from an episode of “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,” or perhaps you simply know it from the fantastic BBQ you can enjoy there. Your dog would probably dig the smells of the restaurant, as well. Plus, if you order something like ribs, you’ll have one thrilled doggo joining you on the ride home. They’ll make sure you get your money’s worth and lick that bone clean.
9. Loro
5333 Kirby Drive, Houston
Loro got its start in Austin before expanding to Dallas and Houston, and the Kirby Drive location is one of the best dog-friendly restaurants around. Sure, you might need to watch out for your dog trying to leap onto the table to snag one of Loro’s meaty offerings—special shout-out to the chicken karaage—but seeing their happiness exploring the patio is worth it.
As you may know, Houston summers tend to get particularly hot. The boozy slushees, which include highlights like a frozen gin and tonic or mango sake, are the perfect antidote to beat that summer heat.

10. The Toasted Coconut
1617 Richmond Ave., Houston
You don’t have to travel to some remote island to enjoy a beach vacation—just head to The Toasted Coconut in Montrose. There’s real sand you can dip your toes into, and your pup can frolic like you’re mere steps away from the ocean (though we’d recommend not tossing a frisbee around since it might hit your fellow diners). Some of The Toasted Coconut’s drinks arrive with accouterments like a mini umbrella, only adding to the charm.
11. Underdogs Sports Pub
4212 Washington Ave., Houston
The perfect place to catch an Astros or Texans game, Underdogs’ appreciation for dogs will have everyone howling with delight. And with ample space for dogs to run around, you’ll have entertainment even during the commercial breaks (and very likely during the game, too). There are over 300 different liquors on the menu, so if you stump the bar staff with your order, we hope someone shakes your paw … er, hand.
12. Traveler’s Table
520 Westheimer Road, Houston
When you find yourself weary from your travels, perhaps after attempting to chase a squirrel up a tree, rest up at Traveler’s Table. The menu is inspired by cuisine from all over the world, so you’ll find something enjoyable no matter your mood. The Duck Chilaquiles paired with the Churro del Diablo is a fantastic main course and dessert pairing. Your dog might prefer the Traveler’s Table Breakfast Board so they can sneak a bite of chicken and sage sausage.
This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
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