Expert Picks: 5 Dog-Friendly Restaurants

by Mar Yvette - Citysearch Editor - 366 Reviews - 111 Lists

Updated: July 22, 2009

If there was ever a place to find dog-friendly eateries, it's Los Angeles. We caught up with pet care guru, business man and dog dad extraordinaire Michael Landa of The Pet Staff to get the inside scoop on 5 canine-human dining hot spots in the City of Angels.

Getting Culinary With Your Canine

  1. 1 4 Star Rating: Recommended Le Pain Quotidien Melrose
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    8607 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

    "Prepare to carbo-load at this extremely charming outdoor spot on Melrose that is very welcoming to dog owners. The patio atmosphere is European farmhouse, and the food is tasty and fresh. Get the bread plate, and don't miss the hazelnut spread! The double-fisted cup of java is also delish and the open-faced sandwiches are divine. Try the egg salad sandwich with the salty capers--yum. Max loves the homey feeling and the great dog watching. Before you leave, check out the scrumptious bakery items inside. Bon apetit!"

  2. 2 4 Star Rating: Recommended The Abbey
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    692 N Robertson Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

    "This local hangout is one of my favorite spots for relaxing and chowing down with my Labrador, Max. The staff is super friendly and I always know that we won't receive strange looks from guests as it's truly a pet-friendly kind of place. I'm a big fan of their wild berry martinis and salads. I also suggest leaving room for desert because their selection is amazing. Just remember not to feed your dog table scraps because it's really not a good thing for Fido!"

  3. 3 3.5 Star Rating: Average Benvenuto Cafe
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    8512 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

    "I'm not sure if most people are aware, but this location was once the place where Jim Morrison of the Doors used to lay down his vocal tracks. And I am certain that most guests aren't clued in that you can bring your dog with you to their newly renovated outdoor patio area--Max always receives the most welcoming reception from the staff and maitre d'. This low-key and totally understated restaurant has the most amazing wood-fire pizzas that you will ever taste. Max loves that they always provide a bowl of water with a side of ice cubes for him to crunch on while I eat."

  4. 4 4 Star Rating: Recommended Stone Fire Pizza
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    829 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (map)

    "The first time I tried Stone Fire we ran into one of the owners (sister restaurant Spanish Kitchen is across the street) who instantly zeroed in on Max and made sure he was 'taken care of.' They have an area in the front that's mostly enclosed, so they prefer that canines come during the shoulder periods and not prime time dinner, which is reasonable. When we do visit for lunch or to watch the Lakers on one of several large-screen TVs, they never disappoint. Happy hour (Monday through Friday from 4pm to 7pm) is a steal, as appetizers, pizza and alcohol are half price. My favorite is the prosciutto and arugula pizza, but you might also try the yummy vegan soy pizza. And any place with Patron on tap can't be all that bad."

  5. 5 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Urth Caffe
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    267 S Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 (map)

    "With a dog, timing is everything at this place. The patio area tends to get really jammed, but the food is worth the logistical gymnastics. Try an early or late lunch and avoid the masses. The cafe serves up delicious organic sandwiches and salads. Caffeine aficionados will love the Spanish latte with honey or the hundreds of other certified-organic whole-bean coffees and loose teas. On more than one occasion, Max has had A-list celebs crouch down and give him their approval (not that he cares). Hope for parking at one of the nearby meters."