The Lazy Dog has cold beer, hot chocolate and incredible food, making it the place to be in Folsom. They even have a dog menu! The patio is where you’ll want to be with your dog — it’s a relaxed setup that works well for a quick dinner with the family, a longer meal with friends, or a casual night out. The atmosphere feels genuinely welcoming to people dining with dogs, which is refreshing.

The restaurant does have clear rules they ask everyone to follow so they can keep the patio dog-friendly for everyone. Don’t place your dog on the table, in your lap, or on a chair — the health department has final say on that one. They’re serious about avoiding what they call the “three B’s”: begging, barking, and biting. Your dog can’t eat off your plate or drink from your glass, but they have special bowls available. Keep your dog on a leash and within arm’s reach the entire time you’re there. Your server won’t pet your dog while working, and it’s not personal — it’s just their policy.

One thing to note: dogs aren’t allowed inside the restaurant itself, only on the patio. Service dogs are the exception, as they’re allowed everywhere. The dog menu gives your dog actual food options rather than just scraps or water, which is a nice touch. If you’re in the Folsom area looking for a place where you can grab a solid meal without having to leave your dog behind, this is worth a stop. Just make sure whoever’s sitting with you is comfortable keeping an eye on your dog while you eat, since they need to stay close by the entire time.