The best dog-friendly restaurants in Tampa

Pooch pals are the perfect dining companions - they can’t disagree with your restaurant choice, you don’t have to share your food (unless you want to), and they’re a cheap date. So you’ll be pleased to know that when it comes to dog friendly restaurants, Tampa’s got a long list of five paw places to get your gnashers into. Hungry hounds can chow down on doggy biscuits, bones, and even treats à la carte, allowing you to dig into your dinner without any watchful eyes. Note that by law, restaurants in Florida with a full-service kitchen are not permitted to allow pups inside - that’s why most of these pet friendly restaurants have an outdoor patio for four-pawed parties. And remember that things do change, so we always recommend contacting the restaurant before turning up with your furry friends to avoid any awkward mishaps.

Whether you’re a local pet parent or an animal lover doing a house sitting assignment in Tampa, we hope this list will give you some food for thought. Read on as we spill the beans on the best dog friendly restaurants Tampa Bay has to offer (we’re sorry in advance for any stomach rumbles induced).

The best dog friendly restaurants, Tampa, FL

Gaspar's Patio Bar and Grill: 8448 N 56th St, Temple Terrace, FL 33617

It’s good vibes all around at Gasper’s, where four-pawed pals and their human counterparts are welcomed in equal capacity. Not only are they known for their delicious array of liquors and cocktails, but four-legged friends are always greeted with a tasty bowl of iced water on the dog friendly patio (which reportedly features misting fans to help you stay cool during the dog days of summer). It’s no wonder they’ve got their fair share of regulars here, as live music, karaoke, pool, darts, and TVs showing sports keep everyone happy at this family-owned bar and restaurant. 

Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe: 5119 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL 33603

What sounds better than digging into some good old American grub with your furriest friend by your side? As one of the most popular dog friendly Tampa restaurants, Ella’s is famous for comfort food and the super friendly staff who always make a fuss of the four-legged customers, plus they’ve got a lively calendar filled with music performances and some quirky art pieces on display. Don’t miss Soul Food Sundays, where they serve brunch specials like fried chicken and waffles, biscuits and gravy, and fried catfish. Oh, and get there early!

Mad Dogs & Englishmen: 4115 S MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33611 

Take the old pooch out for dinner at this traditional English pub, where you can enjoy classics like scotch eggs, fish and chips, and shepherd’s pie while your best bud gobbles up a special serving of chicken breast or a beef patty for $5. The partially covered outdoor patio is the perfect spot to cool off as your pooch sips from a bowl of iced water and you enjoy the wide selection of imported and local craft beers.

On Swann: 1501 W Swann Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

Seasonal, locally sourced produce makes up the mouthwatering menu at On Swann, which is sure to wow locals, tourists, and (especially) dog sitters staying in Tampa, who don’t have to leave their new-found favorite Fido at home! Customers report exceptional service both inside and out, but it’s the patio area where you and your party of wagging tails will be welcomed with open paws.

Salt Shack on the Bay: 5415 W Tyson Ave, Tampa, FL 33611

Perch yourself at one of the pet-friendly picnic benches on the edge of the water and enjoy unbeatable sea views at the Salt Shack. Top tip - keep an eye out for dolphins! Tuck into fresh seafood watered down with a variety of delicious drinks (we like the sound of the Salty Dog cocktail!) to the beat of live music. This is an extra special spot at sunset - but get there early to avoid the queues.

The Sail: 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602

If you’re looking for dog friendly restaurants, Tampa Riverwalk has got some delicious choices. Take a stroll along the waterfront and head to The Sail for a pup stop and some people-watching. Happy hour treats (otherwise known as yappy hour) include doggy ice creams, freshly iced water bowls, and tasty dog bones, and pet parents can enjoy a selection of appetisers and drinks at this 360-degree open-air bar. 

Green Iguana Bar & Grill: 4029 S West Shore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33611

Everyone can kick back and relax at this tropical-themed watering hole where both pooch pals and their humans enjoy a warm reception. Hot dogs can cool off with a bowl of water and ice under the breeze of a fan and pet parents are kept entertained with live music seven nights a week, multiple TVs showing sports, and various activities including trivia, bingo and karaoke. 

Three Birds Tavern: 1492 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Once you’ve ticked off most of the spots on our list of dog friendly restaurants in Tampa, head across the bay to St Petersburg, where you’ll find a century-old farmhouse surrounded by large verandas shaded by oak trees. The northern patio is the spot for dog lovers and their furry friends, who will be treated like royalty with homemade doggy biscuits and fresh water aplenty. 

Coppertail Brewing Company: 2601 E 2nd Ave, Tampa, FL 33605

Welcoming tails of all colours to their outdoor seating area, Coppertail Brewing Company is famous for having some of the best craft beers in Florida (and water bowls for the pooch pals, of course). Beer lovers and four-pawed patrons will enjoy the friendly staff at this welcoming establishment, which also features a delicious food menu and some pretty cool street art. 

Pet sitting your way around the Sunshine State? Next, discover what to do, see, and eat while pet sitting in Fort Lauderdale and if you're heading to California any time soon, check out the dog-friendly restaurants San Francisco has to offer.