Fern Bar’s patio wraps around the building with plenty of shade from mature trees and a covered section heated by overhead lamps—the kind of setup where you can stay comfortable for a couple of hours without worrying about sun or chill. The menu leans California-modern with wood-fired preparations, cocktails, and wines from Sonoma County producers, so there’s real food here, not just snacks. The vibe is relaxed enough that a dog lying under the table doesn’t feel out of place, but it’s also polished enough that you’re not sitting at a picnic table.

Dogs are welcome on the patio; they don’t go inside the restaurant itself. Staff brought water without asking when we sat down, and the kitchen will prepare plain grilled chicken or other unseasoned proteins if you want to give your dog something beyond kibble. There’s no separate dog menu or formal treat program, but the team clearly knows dogs and isn’t going to make your dog feel like an inconvenience. Leashes are required, and the patio has good sightlines so you’re not worried about anyone wandering into the street.

The location on Depot Street in downtown Sebastopol is walkable from nearby shops and the town plaza—you could easily make a meal here part of a longer morning or afternoon exploring the area. The patio is fairly spacious, with tables spread out enough that dogs aren’t constantly greeting each other, though you will likely see other dogs. Sebastopol sits at the northern edge of Sonoma County wine country, about 15 minutes from Bodega Bay if you’re planning a coastal day trip. Fern Bar typically opens at lunch and runs through dinner most days; the kitchen closes around 9 p.m. The covered section is genuinely useful in winter or when fog rolls in from the coast.