The Lazy Dog has cold beer, hot chocolate, incredible food and great music, making it the place to be in town. They even have a dog menu! The patio dining area welcomes dogs, so you can bring yours along for a quick dinner with the family, a meandering meal with friends, or a night out on the town.

If you’re planning to dine with your dog here, there are a few ground rules to keep things running smoothly. Dogs need to stay on leash and within reach of their owner at all times. Keep your dog on the ground—the Health Department has firm rules about that, so don’t let even a small dog sit on the table, in your lap, or on a chair. The staff will bring special bowls for your dog’s food and water, so skip sharing from your plate or glass. Servers won’t be able to pet your dog while they’re working, which has nothing to do with how friendly your dog is and everything to do with keeping things sanitary during service. And while you’re eating, work on avoiding the “Three B’s”: begging, barking, and biting. Most of this is just common sense for dining out, but it’s worth keeping in mind so the Lazy Dog can continue welcoming dogs on their patio.

The menu itself is solid—the kind of place where you’ll find something satisfying whether you’re in the mood for pub food or something with a bit more effort behind it. The drinks program is worth paying attention to. Cold beer selection is solid, and if you’re not drinking, their hot chocolate is genuinely good. The vibe works for different occasions, from casual family dinners to more relaxed evenings with friends. It’s in Thousand Oaks, so depending on where you’re staying in Ventura County, it might be worth the drive. Just plan to arrive during their patio hours so you and your dog can actually sit outside together.