captainsmom's Profile
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Reviews (77)
3/3 9:32am
Oakville Grocery
If you can leave your dog in the car or with a friend outside, this is a great place to stop for cheeses, breads, baked goods, pretty much anything you might want to snack on while driving around wine country. There is also a little front porch area so you might be able to tie your dog up there and you could easily keep an eye on him anywhere in the store, though it is close to the road. There are a few picnic tables out back that would make a pretty good spot to sit outside with your dog.
Great little store with yummy baked goods!
3/3 9:23am
Mumm Napa
The staff was very friendly and brought our dog a giant biscut and a water bowl. There is a good-sized patio area with lots of tables and a nice view of the vineyards, and it was nice to sit outside in the sun and enjoy some wine with my dog! 4 rather than 5 bones b/c the patio area is the only place to sit, so if you have a slightly on-edge dog he may not be able to relax with all the activity around him.
3/3 9:19am
Alston Park
We stopped in this park after visiting a winery with our dog, and I didn't love the fenced-in area. When we were there other owners in the fenced in area weren't picking up after their dogs, which is a big minus for me. But I think it would have been better in the daytime, since the trails go through large fields and look nice (although muddy), and the surrounding vineyards are beautiful.
2/21 10:11pm
Bijou Dog Park
Great fenced-in dog park with plenty of space for running. The space is large and flat with a few trees along one side, and has doggie poop bags, water fountain, and a separate area for small dogs. Captain enjoyed romping around here with the friendly local dogs before a long drive back to SF from Tahoe!
2/18 10:18am
Buena Vista Park
I love walking through this park right in the city- it's incredible to feel like you are in the middle of an old-growth forest and totally removed from urban life, but then still be able to catch views of the city. There are lots of great trails but not necessarily huge fields for running. And yeah, leash rules aren't really enforced.
2/17 11:07am
Pine Lake Park
I really like this park- the huge trees, trails through the woods, and big open fields all in one big spacious park make it a fun new place to go. We weren't aware of the pond at the end of the park and were a little unprepared when our dog fell in (he was stalking the ducks)- so just try and avoid that and you'll be all good. Plenty of space to run, fetch, and play. The grounds are well kept and there are many water fountains around.
2/17 11:03am
Moonside Bakery & Cafe
Delicious bakery, definitely a good spot to stop in Half Moon Bay. The outdoor seating area isn't huge and is right on the sidewalk, but it's a good enough space to sit with your dog as you enjoy your food/coffee. Ordering is inside but right by the door.
2/17 10:59am
Garden Cafe & Deli
Yum! This place has great big sandwiches and a great big outdoor seating area that is perfect for bringing along the dog. Ordering is inside, so it's best to have another human with you- although we didn't try bringing Captain inside, they might have been ok with it since it was just a counter. The outdoor seating area is really spacious, with a back seating area that is more secluded and away from the street in addition to the fenced- in area by the sidewalk. Great place to stop for some food with your dog.
2/9 12:55pm
Point Pinole
This is a beautiful, large park with varied terrain- you can let your dog swim in the beach, you can do some trail running through woods, or you can enjoy views from along coastal trails. It seems there is some confusion about dog leash rules- there are sections that require your dog to be on leash, particularly those near fields of animals or protected marsh, but in the woods and sections of the beach it seems it is fine to have them off leash- in these areas I also did not see any signs that dogs have to be on leash. We have been there with large groups of other dogs and many people all let their dogs off leash.
It is a beautiful spot and has lots of wide open fields and trails to play! Also there are some water fountains scattered around the park. Bring your own doggie bags though, and grab a map of the trail system. Also be aware that April-October when the parking kiosk is attended there can be a $2 dog fee and a parking fee of $3.
2/5 2:56pm
Stray Bar
Epitome of a dog-friendly bar- not only do they allow them, they welcome them. People are chill, drinks are good, and dogs are happy.
2/5 2:52pm
Bloodhound
Great bar, great drinks, and they let you bring your dog? I'm sold. Our friends brought their Boston terrier on a fairly busy Friday and everyone was happy to see her. I have a larger dog though and wouldn't recommend bringing big dogs on very crowded nights- it can just get a little packed and noisy at times.
2/5 2:47pm
Room & Board
Let's be honest: it's not a great idea to take your dog furniture shopping at an expensive store. While this R&B is a large, spacious store, there's tons of expensive stuff around and it's probably better to leave the pup at home if you want to come here (unless you have one that fits in your purse).
1/30 6:26pm
Bernal Beast
Good selection- I got a great leash here that I haven't seen anywhere else. Lots of fun treats & toys too!
1/30 6:25pm
Progressive Grounds
There are just benches out front, but the whole street is so dog friendly in general that it's not a bad spot to sit outside for some lunch if the weather's ok. Good food!
1/30 6:23pm
Bernal Heights Dog Park
I love this park. Amazing views, spacious, big hills to help wear out the pups, and a dog-friendly bar nearby. There aren't really any flat grassy spots, and the rocky surfaces can irritate some dog's paws, but other than that this spot is awesome. Great place to bring the dog on a sunny day for a perfect picnic.
1/25 3:49pm
Park Tahoe Inn
Some places cater to dogs, other places just tolerate them. I'd say this place is more towards the latter. Though the staff was friendly to our dog and it was easy to get a dog-friendly room, don't expect anything else besides them allowing your dog to be in the room- no treats, no bed provided, nothing but a dog fee (albeit fairly reasonable-$25). While the rooms were clean and adequate, the sound insulation was not good- we could hear nearly everything above and around us. I could go with 2 or 3 bones overall here. We got our room at a discounted rate due to an internet special, and the location is very good.
1/25 3:45pm
Dog Dog Cat
Awesome, fun store! This place has a great selection of treats, toys, food, and doggie gear. Not a huge store but it's not cramped at all even though there's plenty of fun stuff. Friendly staff.
1/25 3:40pm
Tahoe Tails and Trails
We took our dog here one day when we were skiing and everything went well. The staff seems laid-back and friendly, and there is adequate space for play, plus they take the dogs for multiple outdoor walks and off-leash playtimes, and the rates are very cheap. It's always a little hard to gage a place after just one visit, so I suppose this could be 3 or 4 bones- initial impressions led me to 3 bones with a lot of dogs and not entirely convinced that they were all getting a lot of attention. But overall it seemed good enough that I think we may use them again if needed- my dog was tired but himself and excited/happy to see me at the end of the day. The place did smell worse then our usual daycare in the city, so that's a minus (big minus: my dog STANK at the end of the day), and we were not happy to hear that dogs who stay overnight are left alone in their kennels from 7pm-7am (?!) - so I would NOT recommend overnighting your dog here; hopefully that's not also a relection of the daytime care but it didn't seem like it.
1/18 11:15am
Dos Pinas
Outdoor seating area with a good number of tables and wide-enough sidewalk space. The food here is good, but you have to order inside and there isn't a great way to keep an eye on the pup while you do this, although it's not a super busy area, and the service is pretty quick. Best option: come with some other people and tell them what you want while you wait outside with your dog.
1/12 10:47am
Old Navy
They have a few little doggie clothes and items here, and the store is large with wood floorings and most of the items up high or on tables, so you don't have to worry too much about your dog getting into things.
1/12 10:46am
Crate & Barrel
Not a good place for dogs, unless maybe they are very little. There is breakable stuff all over this place, and it is often very crowded and cramped feeling, particularly on the lower level. There are also many items at 'sniff level' which other customers would not be happy about if your dog is checking out a whisk or cup they want to buy!
1/12 10:43am
Anthropologie
I LOVE this store. I have to admit I don't like to take my dog shopping for clothes with me, but I was psyched to run into another Vizsla when I was here the other day. The staff was totally cool with it and the store is very large with most items up high. The floors are all wood. However, I wouldn't recommend bringing large or very hyper dogs in- it's a very nice store with very nice items and can get very busy on weekends and lunch times. I wouldn't bring my dog in here unless I was in a pinch, but it's nice to know they are allowed.
1/12 10:33am
Town's End Restaurant & Bakery
Good brunch spot! There are outdoor tables when the weather is nice, and one time they actually brought a table out for us even though they didn't have any set up. The patio space isn't really well defined, there's no gate or anything but there are a few trees. No water bowls or treats or anything, but the servers have been really friendly.
1/12 10:29am
Crossroads Cafe
Agreed- not really dog friendly. There is somewhere to tie up the dog and some water bowls, but the counter for ordering is too far inside to be able to watch your dog as you order, so I'm not comfortable leaving him outside alone while I go in. It is on a fairly quiet street though. The outdoor patio should really allow dogs, that would bump this place up to 3 or 4!
1/12 10:16am
Redwood Regional Park
Great hiking trail with good views and nice wide paths that make it very easy for the dog! It gets a little steep at parts and when we went it was a little muddy, but it was tons of fun, I definitely recommend it.
There aren't any poop bags or water, so come prepared. There are also signs for mountain lions etc so something to be aware of.
12/14 3:40pm
D'urso Italian Delicatessen
While an obvious dog-friendly limitation is you must order inside and leave your doggie outside, the owner is very friendly and has a dog too, so the people who work here are usually happy to have the dog in the covered door area (I just wouldn't try that when they're at their busiest lunch hour)-otherwise there are some trees on the sidewalk for tying up, and luckily they have fast service and all glass windows so you never have to take your eyes off your pup.
The food here is good, and Captain LOVES it when they give him a fresh meat treat!
11/1 10:39am
Iron Cactus
Outdoor seating in the back, although ordering here with the dog is a little trickier than at the creamery. Plus, I don't think the food here is really very good.
11/1 10:32am
Sally's Restaurant
There are a bunch of outdoor tables, some with umbrellas for shade, and some that are high- which are not good for the dog I'd say, unless you have a table surfer. The menu has a wide selection of sandwiches and breakfast all day, and the food is pretty good. It's right by 16th street so it's not the most quiet or pretty location but it is fairly close to both Petco and Pawtrero. The ordering is at the counter- when we went there were two of us, so ordering inside wasn't a problem, but if you're flying solo with the pup I think you could easily either leave the dog by the door or see if they'd mind if you brought him in quickly to order.
10/30 11:52am
Zipcar
We got rid of our car when we moved to the city, and Zipcar has made it SO EASY to get around when we need a car. I love the system. We haven't had problems with dirty cars, and I know plenty of other dog owners using the cars- the rule is 'Pets in Carriers' although we use a cover instead to make sure Captain doesn't shed or get the car dirty, since he's fairly large and lugging a carrier just isn't gonna happen. He LOVES riding in the car- probably because he knows it means we're going somewhere fun!
10/29 3:51pm
Let Us Copy
I had some printing jobs to do and these guys were all about my dog. They were totally fine with having him in the store, and offered him lots of affection. Plus, they do a great job of printing- good quality, fast, friendly. Located right in financial district so not the best dog area in general, but the Embarcadaro is close.
10/27 9:05am
SF Muni
Usually my experience taking Captain on the Muni is fine, and I think it's great that dogs are allowed on buses & trains here since in many other cities they aren't. Most of the time no-one asks me to put a muzzle on him; more often then not people are really happy to see a dog on the train. I haven't been asked to pay for the dog ever, either.
Word of caution, though- it is a much more enjoyable experience if you use Muni with your dog at off-peak hours, when buses and trains are not crowded. (Actually, you may not even be allowed to take them on at rush hour- not sure about that). Either way, avoid peak times, make sure your pup can sit nicely and doesn't need a potty break, and you should be A-OK.
10/12 3:33pm
Hazel's Kitchen
Good sandwiches that are filling and fresh- also good selection of bagels. Ordering is easy enough b/c the space inside isn't large, so it's easy to keep an eye on the pup outside, or even hold him by the door. The tables aren't super sturdy and are right on the sidewalk so best to make sure your pup isn't too excited and is able to sit calmly.
10/12 3:22pm
Pawtrero Hill Bathhouse and Feed Company
We love both Pawtrero and South Paw! Absolutely our favorite. Great selection of everything and a way more fun shopping experience than Petco. Treats, toys, leashes & collars! Plus the loyalty program is a nice little perk.
10/12 3:19pm
George
Somewhat small store but a good selection of treats and very friendly staff/owner. Some unique pet items but not as large of a selection as many other places.
10/12 3:17pm
Holistic Hound
Great dog store in Berkeley. Lots of fun treats, toys, and good selection of really nice leashes and collars. Friendly and fun!
10/11 11:25pm
Fort Funston
This is hands down the absolute best dog spot around. Total doggie wonderland, I was in awe the first time I came here. Not only is it teeming with friendly dogs and tons of space to run and play off-leash, it's a beautiful spot. I love how there's plenty of options here- whether you want a beach walk or a trail, your dog can have it. Just watch out for dead sea life if you opt for the beach- you do NOT want the pup rubbing up against a dead sea lion, trust me.
10/8 3:36pm
Blue Barn Gourmet
There are about 3 outside tables but not a great deal of space. The food is EXCELLENT. No great space to tie up the dog, but easy if you have two people and one can go inside to order and the other waits outside with pup. Probably not great for a crowded day since tables are fairly close and right on the sidewalk. But seriously great sandwiches.
10/8 3:32pm
San Francisco SPCA
We took our dog to be neutered here at the Spay & Neuter clinic and they took excellent care of him. The vet also answered some questions for us about his ears before we left him for the day. I really, really appreciate their sliding scale payment system. Plus, you know spending money here is going to a good cause. The new facility is wonderful. My only reason for 4 rather than 5 bones is that they may see a higher volume here in a given day, so I was somewhat concerned that post-op our dog didn't get as much attention as he would have at a smaller location. But, that said, he healed wonderfully and was back to normal one day after being neutered! Nice facility and nice people.
10/8 3:28pm
All Pets Hospital
The service at All Pets is great, and while we usually see the same vet (Dr. Herman- she's great- soooo friendly and knowledgeable)- on the occasions we've seen other vets, they've all been just as friendly and experienced. This is probably not the best priced place around- we actually went to SPCA for neutering since they were ridiculously over-priced here; also, I think you can get the puppy vaccination schedules for cheaper at Petco or Petsmart- worth looking into. But for your primary vet, this is a great place that will take excellent care of your pup.
9/25 4:41pm
Ike's Place
You won't have much room to hold your dog if you're waiting in line or trying to order, but they don't seem to mind dogs in line and have no problems with them at the few outdoor tables. There was a water bowl by the door when I went. There are a couple of spots to tie up the pup if needed, but since you wait outside for the sammies anyway, it wouldn't need to be for long.
I'd recommend since there is such limited seating to get the sandwiches to go and take them to nearby Dolores park.
Sandwiches are uber filling. For what they are, they are good (big, stuffed, diner style food- come here if you want to feel disgustingly full and overindulge- or, plan on sharing. Do not come here if you're looking for a pansy salad-type lunch). Tons of options, plus plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices.
9/21 1:00pm
Blush Organic Frozen Yogurt
This place is pretty dog friendly- they have a number of outdoor tables, a little doggie drink cup, and even don't mind if you bring the dog inside. Just be careful- a couple of times the doggie water has been pretty dirty, so make sure it looks fresh first.
The fro-yo is pretty good but has more of a sorbet consistency than fro-yo.... not smooth enough for me. I'd also prefer if they widened their flavor range to compliment all of the topping possibilities- they need a vanilla or white chocolate flavor. All their flavors are fruity, which really only mixes well with the fruit. Good selection of toppings though, and the fresh fruit toppings are all really fresh and yummy!
9/21 12:52pm
Crissy Field
Love Crissy Field. May just be the best dog spot in the city- great views, easy to get to, easy parking, doggie water fountains, and miles to play and swim.
9/17 11:26am
Babies
Very cute store! I love the way it's laid out and there are lots of good treats etc. My favorite is still South Park/Pawtrero, but this one is good!
9/17 11:24am
Samovar Tea Lounge
There are a few outdoor tables that aren't too crowded together so there is ample space for your dog to lay down, and the street is quiet enough that it's nice to sit outside with your pup on a sunny day. Just be forwarned- the tables aren't super stable so better to sit with your dog's leash by your chair. Bring your own water bowl and chew toy or treat though if you have a fiesty one. Babies in Hayes is nearby so you can stop there before or after!
I love the veggie food options here- very good tofu! I recommend it. Gave it 5 stars on Yelp b/c was so pleased with the food. 3 bones here since it's not the absolute best dog spot, but definitely a good option.
8/30 4:44pm
Baker Beach
We had a great time when we visited this beach. It's not necessarily as dog-friendly as Crissy, and certainly not the full-on doggie wonderland that is Funston, but it is a great option and good change of pace. The beach is fairly wide and nice and long, and it seems that dogs off leash are well permitted at one end of the beach (at least when we were there, it was the end by the cliffs, not GG). My only complaint is that coming out of the beach it was really hard to find a trash can, so be prepared to lug the poop around if your dog ends up going, or else stick to the parking lots where there are port-a-potties and a trash can by that entrance.
8/27 4:14pm
Loyal Army Clothing
I'm not really a big fan of taking my dog into clothing stores with me, but if I am going to this would be the one. I've brought the pup in here with no worries- there is nothing breakable and all the tables are high enough so he can't get to anything, the staff is friendly and welcoming to dogs, and the floors are hardwood so it wouldn't be the end of the world if a potty accident happened (ahem, not that my dog or any dog that should be going into stores ever has or would do that. I'm just saying).
Fun t-shirts that always make me laugh.
8/27 4:11pm
Victoria Manalo Draves Park
I'm going with 3 bones for this park b/c while it's overall nice and there is water available, the small section where dogs are permitted off leash is sort of over-planned - a fake hill with ledges and sidewalks that doesn't feel like a large open space. There is, however, a large open field next to the baseball diamond which is great for running around with the dogs, though technically they aren't supposed to be there.
8/27 4:07pm
Duboce Park Cafe
As mentioned by others, this place is really great on the dog-friendliness. There is a special latch by the dog for leashes so you don't have to worry about contorting yourself and your dog in odd ways to tie them up around random objects.
The food is fresh & delicious. I like the smoothies! Lots of outdoor seating and a park across the street to boot.
8/27 4:04pm
Duboce Park
I'm a fan of this park b/c we live on the other side of town and it's always fun to come visit this area. The park is not fenced but my dog is great off-leash so that hasn't been an issue for us; in general the dogs here just seem to know to stay on the grass. There is a water fountain and ample space for running around, though the lawn is sloped and at the bottom of that slope there is a road, so it might be best to use caution when using that chuckit. I'd say it's a good low-key spot.
The cafe right across the street is great and dog friendly.
8/15 1:55pm
O'Paws
O'Paws is like a Vizsla sanctuary (they do take other breeds, but they seem to favor the Vs). It's a very homey feel, and if you have your dog stay there, it won't spend any time in a crate and will get tons of outdoor exercise. It's a great place for dogs. My only complaint is I wish they gave more feedback and contact- we boarded our dog there for almost a week and barely got a one-line email back, and not much of a report when we picked him up. We've also done daycare here, and our dog is always excited to go and tired when he comes home. The pack of dogs and the guys who take care of them are all friendly.
8/11 7:38pm
Sweet
Sweeeeet! Very yummy selection of (people) cupcakes, and they have selected doggie treats too ("Pupcakes"!!).
8/11 7:36pm
The Beehive
I LOVE the food at this place. It's an awesome spot for a great dinner & bevies (provided you get there before the crowds- which come in around 8:30-10 and thensome). There is plenty of outdoor seating (for the few months the weather in Boston is nice enough for outdoor seating). I must admit, the 4 dog-friendly bones may be a bit skewed by my absolute love of their food, and less so by the overall dog friendliness- there aren't treats or anything really special for the pups, but the sidewalk area is large. And the South End in general is pretty dog-friendly.
7/28 4:59pm
Cento
Strong, fresh, good coffee and plenty of coffee bevvie options. No seating, but easy to walk up to the window with your pup and order.
7/28 4:57pm
K9 Playtime
Captain LOVES K9! The staff are ALL super friendly, but beyond that they know what they are doing and have training experience.
I feel very comfortable taking Captain to k9. I really think they do a good job with taking on new dogs, with the interview process and introduction to the pack. I also really appreciate the doggie report cards we get, that let me know what Captain was up to all day, who he played with, and whether or not he napped or ate food. The trainer is always in the room with the dogs exercising, training, and playing with them, and the trainer to dog ratio seems good. Captain is pooped after a day at K9.
We have not used their overnight services, only day care. They are super flexible with hours (any time 7am-7pm) and have 6 hour half day options that are super useful and very affordable.
My only minor complaint is that while the space is large and they have 2 separate floors (small dogs and puppies upstairs, big dogs downstairs), I think the ventilation could be better. Kind of smells like dog pee, but then I guess what do you expect, right? The dogs are inside all day (unless you opt for one of their walk options), but they do have little fuex grass areas.
Overall good place with friendly pack and trainers.
7/28 4:42pm
Kehoe Beach
Even though this beach was on-leash only, the views and the amazing space make it totally worth it. There's a nice little walk out to the beach, which is large and in lined by amazing cliffs. The only downside (other than on leash) was that everything was totally covered in fog when we went! Also, I don't think there was water available. But definitely worth checking out.
7/28 4:32pm
Doran Beach
The beach had plenty of space and was close to the parking area. I didn't see any drinking water, and wish it had been off-leash. There was also the entrance fee ($6 for the day), but I think that goes to national parks or some other good cause! If it hadn't been completely foggy, would have been a nice spot with good views!
7/28 3:51pm
Island Style Deli
Stopped here while traveling through Bodega Bay- there was plenty of very casual outdoor seating (picnic tables, no heaters) with enough space to not have to worry about the dog. Might want to watch out for leftovers on the ground, though. The tables are on the side of the restaurant and right in front of a fish market location, near the water- no real views and as I said nothing fancy.
Food was pretty good, but nothing special. Kind of a greasy-spoon feel-burgers & fries, fish and chips, and other seafood-inspired stuff.
7/28 12:15pm
Apple Store
Very dog-friendly staff, and clean open store with no worries about the pup getting anything to chew on. Other than the crowdedness issue, I didn't feel weird having my dog in the store with me at all.
7/23 9:04pm
Furry Tales
This is a great little pet store with a good selection of toys, treats, food, and more. The space does feel a little bit crammed, so if you have a very large dog it's better if it's under control. Grooming services are also available. The woman who works here is very nice and always offers treats to our dog, a neighborhood regular.
7/23 9:01pm
South Paw Bathhouse & Feed Co.
Our dog LOVES, LOVES, LOVES South Paw, and to be quite honest, so do I. It's just plain FUN in there, from the cute decor to the goodie jars to the wide selection of toys. They always offer treats to your dog, and water is available too.
Great selection of treats, toys, and dog food (although if puppy chow's all you're looking for then best to just go to PetCo- they have higher-end foods here, but are reasonably priced on treats etc).
Friendly and helpful staff.
The self- bathing service is very easy to use.
7/20 8:55pm
Point Isabel Dog Park
While the views aren't quite as impressive here as Fort Funston, the extra perks put it back up to 5 bones for me and my pup. A "Mud Puppy's Cafe" with yummy people food and coffee, as well as tons of fun doggie toys and treats, and either self bathe or dog washing options are really nice features of this park. My dog loves getting treated to a Frosty Paws on warm days. And it's nice to know if he gets way too dirty we could always just wash him there before putting him in the car.
There is PLENTY of room to run, with flat large open fields, a few little hills, grassy areas, a swim inlet and a rocky beach area. Good views of the city from across the bay, but be forwarned: it always seems to be windy here, so dress warmly!
Drinking water is available for the pups, and the entire park is fenced in so even if you have a runner you're safe.
7/20 1:52pm
China Basin Park
This is a narrow strip of grass but ample length for running back and forth and throwing a ball for your dog. There is also a small lawn near a mini-baseball field at the end of the park. No fences here, although the lawn is somewhat separated from the road by sidewalk on either side as well as a bit of elevation on one side that separates from the road. There is also not much traffic in the area (unless it's a game day or morning rush-hour), which makes it a good place to practice off-leash recalls. Watch out for trash after game days. There is no running water. It tends to be fairly windy here, though there are nice views of the bay, sailboats, and ballpark.
7/20 1:48pm
South Beach Park
We come here every day with our dog, and there is a great dog community here. The plus's are easy access to a doggie water fountain, large grassy field, poop bags, and frequent doggie fun times as I call them when what seems like all the neighborhood dogs come out to play.
The minuses are that this area is not fenced so you must have a dog that listens well (bikers on one side and cars on the other), the fish-fertilizer that they use on occasion that makes all the dogs want to eat the grass, and the game-day heaps of Giants fans. For the most part all the dogs just stay on the grass anyway, so it's not an issue.
Technically, there are signs that say dogs must be on leash in this space. But every single day, multiple times a day, there are anywhere from 3-15 dogs running around off-leash.
An additional note: b/c there is a kiddie playground right next to the lawn, there's often families and small children that come to use this area as well. This can be a plus if you are looking for some child-socialization, or a minus if your dog is bad around children. But either way, the children are fenced in :-)
7/20 1:38pm
Mountain Lake Dog Park
Fairly good dog run in the Presidio- not fenced in, but it is separated from the rest of the park and not close to any traffic. Plenty of signs up that tell people this is the official off-leash dog area. Running water and bowls are freely accessible. The surface is wood chips, which I'm not the biggest fan of- my dog tries to eat them when he's bored, although I guess he does that as grassy parks too so it's a toss up. There are a few picnic benches for owners to sit and watch the doggie play.
7/20 1:35pm
Esprit Park
Good-sized flat lawn that is semi-separated by trees in the middle. No fence around the periphery, though there are bushes and shrubs that make it feel more enclosed. There is not much traffic in the area, which is also nice, and everyone lets their dogs off-leash. There is no running water here though.
7/20 1:32pm
Hi Dive
My husband took the dog here one time and they actually let him inside, but the next time we went they wouldn't even let him on the inside of the outdoor patio area. We were able to tie him up to the outside of the patio, which was ok b/c there is enough room on the sidewalk so you don't feel like he's very exposed. But their dog policy seems to change depending on the time, day, and who's working, so sometimes they let dogs inside the fenced-in patio area (and not just hanging around the outside).
The cocktails here are not that great- better to stick with the simple drinks as opposed to fruity ones. Food is passible, nothing special.
7/20 1:28pm
Bayside Market
I'm updating my review since I recently came back here and they weren't very friendly about having my dog tied up. Usually I have him by the door since I don't like leaving him where I can't see him, but they wouldn't let me this time- wanted him away from door where he might 'bother other customers'. So there's not really a great spot for tying up if you need to pick up a bunch of stuff since you won't be able to see your dog well from inside. I'd say best to only come here if you have someone else with you who can watch your dog.
There is a shaded outside seating area (no heaters so is chilly if windy) that doesn't feel like you're just sitting on the sidewalk- more of a patio feel.
Food/market-wise, the selection here is great, with a full service deli with yummy huge sandwiches and tons of delicious salads, fresh fruit, baked goods, and just about anything else you could need.
7/20 12:42pm
Specialty's Cafe & Bakery
There is some outdoor seating although the surrounding buildings in China Basin don't really want you walking through with your dog- better to order and then take it out back to one of the park benches overlooking the canal. There isn't really a great place to tie up the dog while ordering, though they do have online ordering so it would be easy to do it that way.
The food is good, with a wide array sandwiches, salads, baked goods and soups. Treat yourself to a hot cookie! Yum!
7/20 12:39pm
Panera Bread
There are a number of outdoor (small) tables- ok for 2-3 people but not more than that. It's also a narrow, fairly trafficked sidewalk, with plenty of other dogs walking by and a busy street on the corner. You can tie up your dog in the door entry way and order your food and still be able to check on him/her, although I only do that when I can run in quickly.
There's a good selection of food and their bakery items are great. It's kind of generic as one would expect from a large chain, but they provide quick and friendly service.
7/20 12:36pm
Farmerbrown's Little Skillet
There is no-where to really sit here, other than the loading dock in the alley across from the ordering window or somewhere on the sidewalk, and there is often trash, bird crap, or someone's spilled lunch fillings that you have to navigate around. But it's very easy to order at the window with your dog and take it away.
The food itself is really good. And they also have some surprising healthy and veggie options like salads and veggie po' boys that are quite tasty. I'd recommend taking it to go and walking over to AT& T or one of the other nearby parks for an overall more comfortable experience, so you can have your good food in something other than a back-alley atmosphere.
7/20 12:32pm
The Creamery
The Creamery has a nice outdoor patio that somehow doesn't feel like you're sitting on the corner of Townsend and 4th... it's usually sunny and warm here, with comfortable chairs and tables and a fenced-in area that makes tying up the dog easy. Plus, there is a least one girl who works here that goes totally nuts for my dog- she loves him and gives Captain a personal affection pampering every time we stop by. It's very easy to have my dog wait outside, feel comfortable about his safety while I'm inside ordering, and then enjoy my coffee/tea outside with him.
The coffee here is very strong, and they also have Mighty Leaf Teas which I love. They have a good little menu, with crepes, salads, and selected bakery items. The bakery and prepared sandwich items look a little cookie-cutter Starbucks-esque to me, and the food isn't really that great, but at least they have some options. The service is pretty slow, so don't come here if you're in a rush.
7/20 12:27pm
Reds Java House
I have to say it's pretty awesome to be able to sit by the water (even if it is with a view of a warehouse and pigeon poop) and enjoy some bevvies WITH my dog. The staff was friendly to him and other dogs were chillin in the patio area as well. They were completely fine with the dogs hanging out in the patio area, and even let us come inside to the bar area when we got too cold.
As for the food, it's a little greasy-spoon/fry up, but if you're just looking for the bar experience it gets the job done. Certainly nothing fancy- very low key, very cheap, and kudos on the dog-friendliness.
7/20 12:23pm
Burger Joint
There are a number of outdoor tables and enough space for the dog to lay around while you're eating. If they aren't too busy, the staff will also bring your food out to you, which makes it much easier.
As for the food, I'm veggie, and I don't think their veggie burgers are all that great. The fries also are not great- I prefer the thin-cut kind. But it's an ok place to grab some fast food and sit outside with your dog.
7/20 12:19pm
Liverpool Lil's
Dog-friendliness: Good sized patio for outdoor seating, and staff is overall pretty dog-friendly. No heaters though. The tables and chairs seemed a little rickety (for tying-up purposes) and the patio area is not fully enclosed so you sort of feel like you're sitting on the sidewalk if you are on the edge.
People-friendliness: Ok food, nothing special. Salads are a bit over-priced for what you get. My friends were happy with their burgers and fries.
7/13 11:37am
Park Chalet
There is an open backyard area where you can sit on the back steps or lawn with your pup, have a beverage, and order food. There are some scattered seats and small tables but this is limited on the pet-friendly back lawn, especially on sunny weekend days when it can get crowded. This also seems to be a popular spot for young families so if your dog isn't good around toddlers that's something to watch out for. Drinks and food were decent enough, nothing special and no real deals. The fries/bar food looked pretty good. There is often live music which is fun, and the beach is just across the street and Golden Gate park just behind so it's prime location to wear out your dog before having a drink or food. My advice: take your dog to Fort Funston first, which is much more dog friendly and just a short 2 mile drive away. Then your dog can sleep in the grass while you enjoy your beer :-)
6/26 5:02pm
21st Amendment Brewery
Dog-friendliness: I've been here a number of times, and there is only outdoor seating on the narrow sidewalk by the side ONLY on game days- it is so crowded then I would feel bad for any dog that gets taken there, though I guess it's marginally better than having your dog wait outside for you. I would not call this a dog-friendly place.
Human friendliness: the food is passable but nothing special. They also are not flexible in allowing any alterations to items on the menu in any way. They have a number of beers on draft, full bar, and nice, open space.
6/26 4:54pm
South Beach Cafe
Dog-friendliness: There are a number of outdoor tables, as well as somewhere to tie up your dog outside if you want to order inside for take-away. It would be a little cold to sit outside here at night if the weather's not right; no heaters and the outdoor space is not enclosed. Also, it is right next to the Embarcadaro so make sure your pup is "cafe ready" and can sit nicely while you eat. There's a park right across the street where many dog-owners take their dogs to play (off leash, but not fenced in).
Human-friendliness: The food is good. Fresh salads & sandwiches, thin crust pizzas, and they do have beer & wine as well. A good lunch spot. Italian-inspired.