10 Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants Chicago
- Melody Fork
- May 5
- 7 min read
Dog-friendly restaurants Chicago - With more restaurants around today, it is a challenge finding time from your day to uncover an ideal dog-friendly dining spot.
Finding the perfect place to dine with your dog in Chicago has never been easier. Whether you are in the mood for some brunch, a dinner, or just a casual snack, Chicago is home to some incredible dog-friendly restaurants that will allow your furry friend to feel just as welcome as you.
In today’s article, Global Paws has handpicked the top 10 dog-friendly restaurants across the city, where you and your dog can enjoy great food and greater company.
Let’s face it, going to a restaurant without your best friend isn't the same, is it?
1. River Shannon
It has been a go-to spot for great whiskey and beer since 1946, and they welcome pups with open arms! Whether you are soaking up the sun or lounging under an umbrella, their rotating happy hour from 3-6 PM on weekdays makes it the perfect place to unwind together.
This beloved Irish pub offers a cosy and dog-friendly vibe with a spacious patio and complimentary water bowls to keep your furry friend happy.
On top of that, River Shannon conveniently located near Lincoln Park, it is an ideal post-walk stop to enjoy a pint while your pup relaxes by your side.
2. Pilot Project
Pilot Project is not just a brewery or dog-friendly restaurants Chicago, it is a playground for beer lovers! Born as an incubator for small-batch brews, it is the perfect spot to sample everything from classic IPAs and lagers to funky beer-wine hybrids and kombucha.
And guess what? Our furry friends are totally part of the fun! With a laid-back atmosphere and a dog-friendly patio, your furry friend can join you while you sip your way through their creative concoctions. They even host pet-friendly events and offer special deals for dog lovers, what more could you ask for?
To Keep in Mind
A guest left a review mentioning they weren’t allowed to bring their dog inside, despite the place being listed as pet-friendly. While that experience was disappointing, the good news is that the staff at Pilot Project responded. They shared that they have recently hired new team members and are making sure everyone is up to speed on their pet policy moving forward.
So, what is the situation really like?
Pilot Project has two locations in Chicago, and not all areas within the venues are created equal when it comes to being dog-friendly. Some indoor seating areas might not specifically allow pets, while outdoor seating is typically more welcoming to dogs.
That might explain some of the confusion behind mixed reviews, it is not that the restaurant is not pet-friendly, but rather that pet access can vary depending on where you are seated.
If you are planning to dine at Pilot Project with your pup, we recommend calling ahead to confirm the best area to sit. Their outdoor patios are usually a safe bet for a relaxing, pet-friendly experience.
In short, Pilot Project is still one of the great dog-friendly restaurants Chicago has to offer, just with a few nuances to keep in mind. With a little planning, you and your four-legged friend can enjoy a great outing together.
3. Taureaux Tavern, Bar and Brasserie
One of the most visited dog-friendly restaurants Chicago. An experience to have, for a dog lover who enjoys fine dining with their furry companion(s).
This chic, French-inspired bistro in the heart of the Chicago Loop offers a stylish yet inviting atmosphere where dogs are not only welcomed, they are pampered! With a spacious, covered patio, it is the perfect spot to dine with your pup all year long.
Plus, on Saturdays, your dog can indulge in their very own brunch menu, truly making it a true treat for you and your four-legged friend.
4. Robert’s Pizza and Dough Company
If you are looking for the perfect spot to enjoy incredible pizza while treating your pup to a day out, Robert's Pizza & Dough Co. has got you covered!
Located along the picturesque Ogden Slip on Lake Michigan, this dog-friendly gem isn’t your average Chicago pizzeria. It is a true haven for pizza enthusiasts and dog lovers, offering a relaxing atmosphere where you can savor delicious, handcrafted pies while your furry friend lounges at your side.
Plus, boat lovers, you are in luck! You can dock your boat right by the restaurant and grab a slice to-go, how amazing is that? What's even better? For those with gluten intolerance, Robert's Pizza uses gluten-free wheat starch that meets FDA standards for gluten-free products, so you can indulge without worry!
So, grab a seat, dig into some of the best pizza Chicago has to offer, and let your dog soak up the sunshine by the river.
5. Tortello
Who wouldn’t want to enjoy handmade pasta, sip on a refreshing Aperol spritz, and have their pup by their side while people-watching in Wicker Park?
Tortello in Chicago is a must-visit for pasta lovers and pet owners alike. This dog-friendly spot boasts a charming, plant-filled patio that sets the perfect vibe for a relaxed dining experience. It has even been called one of the best dog-friendly restaurants Chicago with a patio area!
What is on the menu? Delicious handmade pasta like saffron corzetti and spaghetti pomodoro, perfect for satisfying those Italian cravings. And the best part? Char and Whiskers reports that Tortello offers free treats for your dog!
Located in the heart of Wicker Park, a neighborhood brimming with dog-friendly parks, restaurants, and local spots, Tortello is the ideal place to enjoy great food with your furry companion.
6. Nonnina
If you are a fan of Italian cuisine and want to enjoy a meal with your pup, Nonnina is the place to be! This cosy Chicago gem features a dog-friendly patio where you can savor fresh pasta and a glass of wine while your furry friend relaxes by your side.
The friendly staff also goes above and beyond to make sure your dog feels welcome, often providing water bowls and tasty treats.
Nonnina’s pet-friendly perks don’t stop there, your pup can also enjoy a special treat from the puppy menu, featuring delicious items like chicken breast. It is no wonder Nonnina has earned praise on social media for being such a dog-friendly restaurant in Chicago, making it a must-visit for dog lovers and foodies alike!
7. Cody’s Public House
Looking for a laid-back hangout with your dog? Cody’s Public House is the perfect spot! With its spacious beer garden and dog-friendly restaurants Chicago vibe where you can sip on craft beers while your furry friend enjoys the relaxed atmosphere.
Located at 1658 W Barry Ave, this neighborhood bar is not only a great place to grab a drink, but it also offers a welcoming patio where dogs are always welcome.
Cody’s is the place to be for dog lovers, with a fun “Dog of the Month” program and events like watch parties and raffles benefiting Paws Chicago. Plus, you can bring your own food to grill outside, it is perfect for a casual meal with friends and your pup.
The friendly staff and chill vibe also make it an ideal spot for summer nights, though it can get a bit crowded on weekends.
8. Bandit
Bandit is a stylish yet casual restaurant and bar located in the West Loop, where you can enjoy delicious American classics alongside your dog. Known for its dog-friendly vibe, Bandit offers a special "Pup Picks" menu for your furry friend, ensuring they get a treat while you indulge in craft cocktails and savory bites.
The restaurant’s cosy patio is the perfect setting for enjoying a meal with your four-legged companion by your side. According to The Infatuation, Bandit is home to one of the best patios in Chicago for dining with your dog.
What is even better? A portion of proceeds from the Pup Picks menu goes directly to PAWS Chicago, so you are helping dogs in need while dining out. With Chicago’s law allowing companion dogs in outdoor dining areas, Bandit embraces this wholeheartedly, welcoming pups to hang out in style.
9. Corridor Brewery & Provisions
This dog-friendly restaurant in Chicago is the ideal spot for dog lovers who enjoy craft beer and great food. Located in the West Lakeview neighborhood, this laid-back brewery features a spacious sidewalk patio, perfect for those leisurely dog-walking breaks.
The staff are known for their hospitality, even offering water to your furry companion as you relax and enjoy your time.
The warehouse-style setting also provides plenty of room to unwind with your dog by your side, and with its fantastic local beers and stellar service, it is no wonder that Corridor Brewery & Provisions is a go-to destination for dog owners and craft beer enthusiasts.
10. Barrio
Barrio, a trendy Mexican restaurant in the heart of River North, not only serves up delicious Mexican dishes, but also welcomes your furry companions with open arms. With a stylish yet comfortable patio, your pup can join you in enjoying the seasonal dog-friendly menu, featuring tasty options like:
Burger patties
Chicken, skirt steak
Dairy-free dessert
For the humans, Barrio offers mouthwatering dishes like:
Carnitas nachos
Skirt steak fajitas
Grilled octopus tacos
But it gets even better, a portion of the proceeds from their dog menu goes to PAWS Chicago, so you can enjoy a great meal while supporting a good cause. Plus, the restaurant provides water and treats for your dog.
From intimate cafes to vibrant beer gardens, Chicago offers a wide variety of dog-friendly restaurants Chicago where your pet is more than just a guest. These 10 spots are just the beginning of a city brimming with places where dogs are welcomed with open arms.
And if you are planning to travel with your dog to explore Chicago, let Global Paws help you plan the perfect getaway. With our expert knowledge and global network, your dog’s next adventure could be just around the corner. Contact us today!
About Global Paws:
Global Paws is a family-owned business with over 20 years of experience in pet travel and relocation. We know your pets are part of your family, and we care for them like they are part of ours. As proud members of the International Pet & Animal Transport Association (IPATA) and certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LAR), we’re committed to making sure they travel safely and comfortably.
What sets us apart is the extra care we provide. Every pet is treated like family, and we make sure their journey is safe and stress-free, no matter where they are headed.
We believe every pet deserves a first-class experience, and we are here to make sure they are comfortable from start to finish. Our experience, backed by IPATA and IATA, gives you peace of mind knowing your pet’s journey is in safe, loving hands.
Then, are you ready to give VIP treatment for your furry friend? Visit our website to book your pet’s dream vacation today!
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