The best pet-friendly patios & restaurants in Dallas–Fort Worth
One of the great joys of dog ownership is being able to bring your pup along on adventures — including lunch or dinner out. DFW's vibrant restaurant scene has embraced dog-friendly dining with gusto, and you'll find welcoming patios from Deep Ellum to Fort Worth's Magnolia Avenue, from Uptown Dallas to the Addison restaurant corridor.
Texas law (Texas Health & Safety Code Section 437.025) allows dogs on outdoor patios of restaurants, provided the establishment obtains the appropriate permit. Dogs must remain on a leash and under control at all times, and must not be in any indoor area. Always check with the specific restaurant regarding their pet policy before bringing your dog.
Deep Ellum in Dallas is known for its lively, dog-welcoming patio scene. Uptown Dallas has numerous brunch and dinner spots adjacent to the famous Katy Trail. Lower Greenville and the Knox-Henderson corridor are packed with dog-friendly options. In Fort Worth, the Near Southside and West 7th neighborhoods offer excellent pet-friendly dining. The Addison area and Plano Legacy West are also great bets in the northern suburbs.
Always bring your own water bowl, clean up after your dog immediately, keep your dog on a short leash close to your table, ensure your dog is well-behaved around food and strangers, and tip generously — servers who accommodate dogs go above and beyond.