The Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Columbia, SC
Columbia residents love their four-legged friends, and the city is packed with fun ways to spend time together, from browsing the Soda City Market to top dog parks and catching frisbees at the Horseshoe. After a long day of exploring or strolling the West Columbia Riverwalk at sunset, you and your pup are bound to work up an appetite. With a ton of dog-friendly restaurants offering outdoor seating, Columbia is a top-tier destination for dining with your dog.
Burgers, Bites, and Brews
1. Publico Kitchen and Tap
Located in Five Points, this spot is a must-visit for dog owners. They boast a fantastic back porch, sidewalk tables, and even “Roscoe’s Bark Park” (membership required). Best of all, they feature a special dog menu with treats like peanut butter bacon biscuits, and the proceeds benefit local animal charities. For the humans, there are 54 craft and regional beers on tap.
2. Jake’s on Devine
If you want a fun patio experience where the meats and cheeses are free-range and free of growth hormones, Jake’s is the place. They ask that dogs become “Yappy Certified” via their website before visiting; once registered, you can show your confirmation email to get your pup his very own Yappy Hour bandana and Jake’s collar tag.
3. Pawley’s Front Porch
Enjoy delicious, award-winning burgers that were featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” while relaxing with your dog on their covered patio.
4. Grill Marks
Situated in the heart of The Vista, this burger joint features an enclosed patio that provides year-round dog-friendly seating. They even offer water bowls and bones upon request.
5. Craft and Draft
Looking to cool off? Head to Craft and Draft on Devine Street where dogs are welcome in the air conditioning. You can enjoy a beer while your pup gets their own water bowl.
6. Hunter-Gatherer Brewery
Enjoy house-made beers—ranging from their Pale Ale to Hefeweizen—and handcrafted pizzas at their dog-friendly outdoor tables.
Delis & Southern Staples
7. Di Prato’s Delicatessen
Grab breakfast or lunch at this NY Italian-style deli that brings a Southern twist. Their spacious, pet-friendly patio has several umbrella-cast shade tables to keep your dog cool.
8. Groucho’s Deli
Famous for their Apollo Dipper and White Moose sandwiches, this deli offers five pet-friendly outdoor tables. Just keep in mind that they don’t offer table service, so you will need to keep your dog outside while you step in to order.
9. Blue Marlin
If you are craving Low Country and Coastal Louisiana cuisine, you can bring your pup along to their outdoor seating area for a unique dining experience.
International Flavors
10. Cantina 76
This Mexican-inspired taqueria and bar offers creative tacos, house-made salsas, and hand-crafted margaritas that you can enjoy at a table on their covered patio.
11. Real Mexico Restaurant
Your pup is welcome to join you under an umbrella-shaded patio table while you dive into chipotle chicken tacos or oxtail soup.
12. Il Giorgione Pizzeria & Wine Bar
Located in Five Forks, this authentic Italian spot welcomes dogs at ten different outdoor tables, serving up pasta, pizza, wine, and gelato.
Breakfast, Brunch, and Sweets
13. Another Broken Egg Cafe
A fantastic Southern-inspired spot for breakfast and brunch classics, where dogs are more than welcome at the outdoor tables.
14. The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
Treat yourself to one of their handmade cinnamon rolls—like the famously giant “Cinnamonster”—while hanging out at one of their pet-friendly tables.
15. Pelican’s Snoballs
To end a great day out, swing by Pelican’s Snoballs for a sweet treat and get your best friend a one-dollar “pup ice” to reward them for being a great companion.
Who says cities aren’t dog-friendly? Grab your leash, work up an appetite, and enjoy everything Columbia’s culinary scene has to offer!
Need Same-Day Vet Care in Columbia, SC?
Even with the safest adventures, sudden illnesses or minor injuries can happen while you are out having fun with your pup. If your pet ever needs same-day veterinary care, be sure to visit Truss Vet Columbia.
Operating much like a human urgent care clinic, we specialize in non-life-threatening emergencies that need quick medical attention without the hassle of a traditional ER. We offer convenient walk-in and same-day care!