Can I be honest? Going out to eat with both my kids and pets sounds fun but is usually stressful and ends with us getting food to go and not eating until after bedtime. Does this happen to anyone else? So where does one go where everyone can enjoy themselves and get a good meal? Columbia happens to have a variety of wonderful dog friendly restaurants that are perfect for your kids and your pup!
1. Market on Main
Right on Main Street downtown, you’ll find Market on Main. It is one of our favorites and the food is great! The environment encourages all members of the family from pets to kids. Market on Main hosts a variety of events each week, including dog meet ups. When you arrive, ask to sit in the designated dog area, this is a fully turfed and fenced in area with picnic tables with umbrellas, fans, water bowls, and sometimes even dog toys.
2. Jake’s on Devine
Jake’s on Devine is another great spot for your pups. Jake’s has one of the largest outdoor dining areas for guests and their dogs, and it is completely fenced in. There is plenty of room for dogs and kids, along with a great atmosphere. In addition, Jake’s features “Yappy Hour” every Tuesday and Thursday, where both you and your pup can enjoy all this dog-friendly bar has to offer. Before you head to Jakes’ though, be sure to register your furry friend on their website. Then, on your visit, just show your registration confirmation and you’ll receive a free Yappy Hour bandana and Jake’s collar tag.
3. Steel Hands Brewing Company
Steel Hands Brewing Company is the largest of the pet friendly restaurants in Columbia. It sits on four acres of land and boasts a 10,000 square foot facility. Although it is not fenced in, your leashed companions are welcome on the premises. They frequently have events and have some pretty tasty pretzels and fries.
4. The Gourmet Shop
The Gourmet Shop is probably my favorite lunch spot. Located in the heart of Five Points, The Gourmet Shop doesn’t have a space specifically designed for pets but you can sit out on the patio with your furry friends. Be sure to try the chicken salad and, my husbands favorite, the tomato bisque.
5. Publico in 5 Points
Publico has an entire area behind the restaurant that is dedicated for pups and people alike! It’s outfitted with artificial turf. Not only do they have a great space for your furry friends but also a special Puppy Plates Menu just for them, offering items from tacos to puppy pancakes. Another thing that makes Publico great is that the proceeds from Puppy Plates go to Final Victory Animal Rescue; a nonprofit organization located in West Columbia, for current adoptable dogs.
6. Craft and Draft
One of Columbia’s favorite tap rooms is Craft and Draft. There are two different locations and both allow your pets to be included in the fun. At the Columbia location, pets are allowed inside and outside on the patio. At the Irmo location, pets are welcome on the patio but are not allowed inside because there is a full kitchen. There is plenty of space to roam and sniff, and Craft and Draft boasts a fantastic menu also!
7. Pelican’s Snowballs
Another fan favorite is Pelican’s Snowballs. While you are enjoying your delicious snowball with the kids you can order a special one for your dog too. There are multiple locations in Columbia, Irmo, and Lexington. Find them all here.
Although going to dinner with littles and the pets can be stressful it is something my family and I love to do. Be sure to pack lots of snacks, treats, and some extra water for your pup, and enjoy yourself!
