2020 had us all locked in our homes with nothing to do, and with that, we saw a global rise in people buying pets for entertainment and company. With this increase in pet ownership, there’s been a bigger demand for pet-friendly restaurants, as many would rather bring their furry friends on their adventures rather than leave them at home.
Picture: GettyImages
If you’re looking for a spot to drink your chai latte with your fluff ball, here are a few suggestions to try.
Durban:
Old Town Italy
Picture: Jordyn Johnson
Not quite Italy, but the closest place you’ll get in Durban, Old Town is a beautifully designed restaurant and deli. Feast your eyes on the artisanal bread loaves, gelato, and cheeses on sale as you walk through the deli.
Although dogs aren’t allowed inside the restaurant, you can enjoy your coffee and biscotti in their outside seating area with your doggo.
- Location: 39 Meridian Drive Umhlanga Rocks, Durban
- Operating Hours: Wednesday – Friday | 7:00 – 21:00; Saturday – Tuesday | 7:00 – 17:00
- Website: oldtown.co.za
Foam
Whether you’ve chosen a smoothie, a simple avo on toast, or a decadent croissant, you’ll be eating your breakfast to the soundtrack of the ocean. One of Durban’s pet-friendly restaurants that are almost on the beach and keeps going during loadshedding (a definite win).
- Location: 31 North Beach Road, Umdloti Beach, South Africa
- Operating hours: Monday – Sunday | 6:30 – 5:30
- Website: facebook.com/foamumdloti/
Circus Circus Beach Café
Take your dog on a walk along the Golden Mile and even a little run on the beach before stopping at Circus Circus for a bite to eat.
Their menu ranges from salads to curries, and their coffee and warm beverage menu is just as numerous if you’d prefer to stop for a quick break in between your beach day.
- Location: 1 Snell Parade, North Beach, Durban
- Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday | 6:00 – 17:00
- Website: circuscircus.co.za
Cape Town:
Foodbarn
Picture: Getaway Gallery
Perfect for a leisurely Saturday afternoon lunch. Foodbarn offers delicious food as well as water and treats for your furry friend to keep them happy. There is also a grassy outdoor area where your dog can meet other furry friends while you eat.
- Location: Noordhoek Farm Village, Corner Village Lane and Noordhoek Main Road, Noordhoek
- Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday | 8:00 – 16:00
- Website: thefoodbarn.co.za
The Dog’s Bollocks at the Yard
One of Cape Town’s pet-friendly restaurants, and is known to have some of the best and biggest hamburgers in Cape Town. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere, kind staff, mouth-watering burgers, and spending time with your dog.
- Location: 6 Roodehek St, Gardens, Cape Town
- Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday | 9:00 – 22:00
- Website: yardco.co.za
The Lighthouse Café
This gorgeous coastal restaurant gives you holiday vibes as you enjoy a tasty breakfast or lunch. The staff will accommodate your pet, and the generous portions will leave you feeling full and happy for a long time after.
- Location: 90 St Georges Street, Simon’s Town, Cape Town
- Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday | 8:30 – 22:00; Sunday – Monday | 8:30 – 16:00
- Website: thelighthousecafe.co.za
Johannesburg
Salvation Cafe
Picture: Salvation Cafe/Instagram
A restful brunch spot for when you want to break away from the city hustle and bustle. Award-winning meals with global and fresh flavours will have you dreaming of your next meal at Salvation Café. What makes this spot even better is that it’s dog-friendly.
- Location: 44 Stanley Avenue, Milpark, Johannesburg
- Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday | 8:00 – 17:00
- Website: salvationcafe.co.za
Arbour Cafe and Courtyard
If you’re looking for fresh and seasonal meals, cooked with local ingredients, Arbour Cafe and Courtyard is the place for you. Saturdays and Sundays even offer a bottomless mimosa brunch, so bring your friends and furry friends for an enjoyable morning.
- Location: Shop 6 Wrenrose Court, 64 St Andrew St, Birdhaven, Johannesburg, 2196
- Operating Hours: Monday – Friday | 7:00 -16:00; Saturday – Sunday; 7:00 –
- Website: arbourcafe.co.za
Doppio Zero, Greenside
With great coffee, delicious food, and pet-friendly, this is a popular spot for good reason. Pop into Doppio Zero for a relaxing meal out with your pup.
- Location: Cnr. Barry Hertzog & Gleneagles Rd (Entrance Mowbray Ave), Greenside, Johannesburg
- Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday | 7:00 – 21:00
- Website: doppiozero.co.za
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