Pleasanton, a community of 75,000, is the wealthiest middle-size city in the country according to the 2010 national census, and it’s as pleasant as its name suggests when it comes to the Fido factor. Unlike other communities that block off streets and ban canines at farmers’ markets and street fairs, Pleasanton welcomes patrons with four-legged companions at its 1st Wednesday Street Parties, held May through September and featuring more than 150 vendors each week. Come celebrate the Dog Days of Summer at the dedicated-to-dogs 1st Wednesday Street Party on August 5 and watch all the dogs in the neighborhood shake their stuff in the popular pooch parade down Main Street.
In celebration of Fido, stop into Murphy’s Paw to pick up a special treat for your four-legged friend and then take a break to dog-watch from an outdoor table at one of many pup-friendly restaurants, including Oasis Grille & Wine Lounge, New York Pizza or Tomo Sushi Bar & Grill.
Nearby Danville gives Pleasanton a run for the money when it comes to laid-back vibe and dog-friendly venues. You and Daisy can contemplate the next leg of your visit over award-winning California cuisine served in the shady courtyard of The Peasant and the Pear, whose name reflects a contemporary take on rustic bistro classics. Chow Danville is an affordable, farm-to-table venue, while Danville Station Firehouse Bar and Grill features one of the largest outdoor dining areas in town (dog-friendly, of course). And don’t miss Doggie Night, May 21, when canines will be out in force, businesses will be offering free dog treats and a variety of vendors will set up shop for a 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. pet fair outside Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee at 425 Hartz Ave.
For a memorable meal in a rural setting, take Rosco along to Garre Winery and Café, whose Italian roots are reflected in the restaurant’s Mediterranean lunch menu. Choose a table on the expansive, dog-friendly patio and ask the server to pair your dishes with wines made from grapes grown right in front of you. Then, repair to the bocce court and bowl a game while your fur buddy looks on in amusement.
