If what you like in an outing with your dog is a hip, urban vibe with lots of canine-accommodating amenities, look no farther than Oakland. Start at waterfront Jack London Square, where there will likely be a dog-friendly event going on. If not, stake a claim at an outdoor dining venue like Bocanova, where you can while away an afternoon enjoying Latin-inspired entrees such as day-boat scallops in Brazilian curry sauce or low-cal starters such as jicama wedges with chili and lime.
Another option near the square is Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant, a family-owned establishment with Victorian décor, lots of memorabilia, a colorful history, dog-friendly umbrella tables and a menu heavy on pasta and seafood.
Drake's Dealership, once the parts and service department of an old Dodge dealership located on Oakland's historic Broadway Auto Row, has been transformed into a full service restaurant with 32 beers on tap and a grand open-air, dog-friendly beer garden. Kick back with your best four-legged friend by your side and enjoy a wood-fired pizza and craft beer brewed right out of the East Bay.
Lake Merritt, the large tidal lagoon in the center of town, is one of the Bay Area’s most popular jogging destinations and another DogTrekker magnet. Linger over an upscale lunch or dinner at Lake Chalet Seafood Bar, a special-occasion venue; or indulge in Italian comfort food at Barlago Italian Kitchen, where heated outdoor tables take the chill off the often brisk marine air. Heart and Dagger Saloon is a local’s hangout with a cool, kick-back ambience. It features a large patio with shaded tables, a diverse libation selection, free Wi-Fi, and a jukebox covering every musical genre known to man and dog.
When it’s time to let your dog be the center of attention, take her to one of the city’s off-leash dog parks and let her get some exercise in the company of her own kind.
Drake's Dealership date with Leopold. Photo Credit: Alysha M. Hoffman
