Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Irvine California

We can’t think of many things better than relaxing outside with your dog while eating a great meal. Lucky for you, many restaurants in Irvine, CA are making it even easier to do so. Check out our list of dog-friendly restaurants that you and your pooch will love!

The Cut

Whether you’re looking for brunch, lunch, or dinner, The Cut is your place for quintessential American fare. Enjoy a burger, salad, or some drool-worthy chicken and waffles. The staff welcomes canine guests onto the dog-friendly patio, where they can lounge by your seat and sneak some of your scraps while you eat.

Many people come here for the delicious craft cocktails, unique starters, or the classic “burger and a beer” combo. And even the best-behaved pup will be begging for their scrumptious desserts. Don’t miss out on this sweet spot, located on Alton Parkway in Irvine.

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar

As the name suggests, this Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar welcomes dogs out onto its beautiful patio, where the two of you can enjoy some California weather located in the Corona del Mar neighborhood. Expect some delicious high-end American cuisine, starters, burgers, and comfort food at this fun spot on Jamboree Road.

The Lazy Dog Restaurant Bar will whip up some tasty cocktails or serve frosty drinks for you and your pup to enjoy on the outdoor patio. There’s even a doggie menu for your four-legged friend to share a meal with you. An all-around hit!

Cucina Enoteca

Using fresh seasonal ingredients, Cucina Enoteca serves delicious Italian dishes with a Southern California twist. There are many dog-friendly restaurants in New Port Beach, but this restaurant might become your favorite if you are a wine lover! With plenty of dog-friendly outdoor seating on a spacious outdoor patio, this is the perfect spot for dog owners and their furry companions to enjoy wine paired with their favorite pastas.

Their rustic dinner menu also includes pizzas, salads, and steak, plus they offer an extensive lunch menu. Traditional Italian dessert is a great way to end your and your dog’s meal while enjoying the fresh air on the outdoor patio.

Portside Fish Co

In the mood for some fresh fish? If you are wandering around Irvine, CA, seafood is always a good bet! You are literally right next to the ocean. You can find a favorite among locals and a unique dining experience at Portside Fish Co! From fish and chips to fish tacos, this restaurant functions like an upscale food hall, with plenty of different restaurants and one central eating area, so expect it to be busy!

The fresh fish can’t be beaten, and your dog is welcome to slurp on some water while you munch on lobster and crab. You can find this hot spot on Michelson Drive.

The Vox Kitchen

With excellent service and even better food, The Vox Kitchen is a must-try for you and your doggo. Their outdoor seating offers dog owners a dog-friendly location to have lunch or dinner with their furry best friends.

Mouth-watering Vietnamese and Asian fusion dishes will have your dog begging for a taste, but not to fear — servers are armed with treats to satisfy hungry bellies. You’ll find this gem on Brookhurst Street in Fountain Valley.

Pueblo

Located on Hyland Avenue in Costa Mesa, this stylish, modern tapas bar has delicious Spanish dishes that incorporate seasonal ingredients and are perfect for sharing. There is outdoor seating on the patio, where dogs can enjoy a fresh bowl of water while you eat. Colorful dishes, a contemporary ambiance, and great company make this restaurant one of our all-time favorites.

Malibu Farm Lido

This breakfast, brunch, and lunch Southern California hotspot serves all of the sweet or savory breakfast classics you know and love. The light, modern atmosphere makes this spot in Newport Beach a great option for you and your furry friend to share a morning meal together. You know what they say…breakfast is the important meal of the day, so you might as well make the most of it!

Preparing Your Pup To Visit Dog-Friendly Restaurants

A dog is not ready to enjoy the outdoor seating at your favorite restaurant until they have been properly socialized. If their first outing is at a busy place full of people and other dogs, they might be stressed and poorly behaved. Especially if there is food involved! Prepare your dog for restaurants by in-home training. Train your dog to sit politely near your family dinner table during mealtimes. If your dog begs, use this helpful guide to change your dog’s behavior.

Just because a restaurant has a patio or outdoor seating does not mean it’s dog-friendly. Always double-check that the place you have chosen for brunch or dinner allows your canine companion.

What To Bring For Your Dog When Going To A Restaurant?

Always be prepared with everything your pet needs to be comfortable when going to dog-friendly restaurants. Necessities for your dog include:

• Water and a water bowl! Collapsible water bowls are very convenient for storage.
• A place for your dog to lie down, like a towel, mat, or blanket.
• A leash (six feet or shorter) to keep your dog contained while you enjoy the restaurant.
• Your dog’s favorite treats so you can consistently reward and reinforce calm and appropriate behavior. Your dog is more likely to repeat reinforced behaviors. It is better to praise and treat your dog for relaxing and lying under the table than trying to punish them if they get too excited.
• A chew or small toy that will help your dog entertain themselves while you are enjoying your meal.

How Should Your Dog Behave At Restaurants?

Your dog should always stay close by, ideally under the table. This way they are not blocking aisles or bothering restaurant staff or other visitors. For the safety and comfort of everyone at the restaurant, don’t allow your dog to visit guests without their permission. Always advocate for your dog and make sure they are comfortable. Your dog does not have to greet or interact with every person or dog!

However, if your dog is social and enjoys meeting new people, it is okay to allow them to greet new people who ask if they can pet your dog. It is also okay to tell people “no thank you” if your dog is not a fan of greeting strangers or is feeling overstimulated. Explain that your dog is shy or they are training and learning to relax in distracting environments like restaurants!

What Should You Do Before Taking Your Dog to a Dog-Friendly Restaurant or Outdoor Seating Area?

Before taking your dog out to your favorite dog-friendly restaurants or outdoor patios, make sure it will be a fun experience for your dog. It is hard to enjoy the delicious dishes around Orange County if your dog is stressed or reactive. Sometimes our canine companions might not enjoy dog-friendly restaurants, and it is okay for dog owners to leave their pups at home!

However, if your dog is well-behaved and social with other dogs and people, then take your dog out for a culinary dinner experience! Don’t miss out on these incredible restaurants that you can enjoy with your furry friend. You get a great meal out of it, and they get to spend some time by your side. Enjoy!