Are you looking to eat out and want to bring your pets along?
While some traditional Lexington restaurants and bars have patios that can accommodate dogs, several go out of their way to make pets and their owners feel welcome.
From expansive outdoor areas to treats for your furry friend, this guide and list offer some of the best Lexington restaurants that are perfect for an outing with your dog.
Are dogs and pets allowed in restaurants?
Pets are not allowed inside of restaurants unless it is a service animal and there are rules for outdoor pets.
“Dogs may be allowed in outdoor dining areas if specific criteria is met,” said Kevin Hall, communications officer for the Fayette County Health Department.
According to Hall, dogs must not come in contact with any food service items and must be kept on a leash while on restaurant property. Businesses who allow dogs need proper signage indicating these rules.
The outdoor area also can’t be fully enclosed and must have a separate entrance for customers with a dog.
Here are eight pet-friendly local dining options for you and your furry friends to enjoy.
The Service Station is a bar and canteen that is dog friendly with large out door space and water bowls in Lexington, Ky., Friday, June 17, 2022. Silas Walker swalker@herald-leader.com
The Service Station
3092 Leestown Rd., 502-427-0388
The Service Station is a bar and canteen that has arange of beers and bourbons, along with hot dogs and a variety of food trucks that serve on site.
Previously called Leestown Garage Bar, The Service Station has an big outdoor area that welcomes dogs.
“Dog watching is admittedly one of the regulars’ favorite pastimes in the expansive yard at The Station,” their website says.
Inside, The Station features TVs playing a variety of games and Happy Hour specials all week.
A reviewer on Facebook said The Station is “an amazing place for good service, great atmosphere, and good bourbon.”
Ryan and Dixie Kendall with their Great Dane Harley at The Service Station, one of several pet-friendly restaurants and bars around Lexington. Silas Walker swalker@herald-leader.com
Wise Bird Cider
1170 Manchester St #140, 859-309-1863
Wise Bird Cider is a family-run business that crafts ciders and recently opened Little Fork, a farm-to-table permanent food truck located on Wise Bird’s dog-friendly patio.
This comes as a part of an outdoor expansion plan, which includes the addition of two bocce ball courts and a sand pit.
“Little Fork will add a new dimension to the cider experience by serving dishes that focus on fresh, local ingredients that pair with our ciders,” said Tim Wright, co-owner and cider maker.
After the pandemic led to the closure of Portofino, a former Italian restaurant in Lexington, a group of employees came together and opened The Goose, according to its Facebook page.
With 4.4 stars on Google, many reviewers mentioned their casual “pup patio” as one of the best pet-friendly spots in Lexington.
Double Dogs also features a “pet of the week” on their Facebook page each week, where they highlight a pet from a local animal shelter.
Proud Mary BBQ
9079 Old Richmond Rd., 859-913-5611
Proud Mary BBQ has pet-friendly outdoor seating options as well as indoor dining and features live entertainment.
Proud Mary BBQ opened in 2015 and is situated next to the Kentucky River for a riverfront dining experience.
Customers enjoy food and drinks at the outside seating of Proud Mary BBQ in Lexington, Ky., Wednesday, September 30, 2020. Silas Walker Lexington Herald-Leader
It features “some of the best food, drinks, and local sounds in the Bluegrass,” according to its website.
A commenter on the Lexington food & dining news and sharing Facebook page said, “Absolutely delicious as always! We especially like the summer months for the outdoor music and bar but any time is great! Go see them.”
The menu features barbecue, seafood, salads and more.
Proud Mary BBQ has a 4.4 star rating on Google.
Kentucky Native Cafe
417 E Maxwell St., 859-281-1718
Kentucky Native Cafe is located within Michler’s, a family-owned Lexington nursery, so this cafe is surrounded by greenhouses and native plants.
Which makes for a shady and enjoyable place to hang out with your pet to try local craft beer and wine.
Kentucky Native Cafe is a hidden restaurant tucked into an old greenhouse behind Michler’s. You can get craft beer and food there while you enjoy a quiet oasis in Lexington. Photo provided Penina Goldstein
With 4.7 stars on Google, many reviewers mentioned its unique outdoor dining area.
Kentucky Native Cafe also offers Bavarian pretzels and daily rotating salads and special dishes.
Located in the Chevy Chase neighborhood, The Sage Rabbit offers a variety of foods, including their specialty house-made pasta and roast pork.
The Sage Rabbit is farm-sourced and chef-owned according to its Facebook page.
Bringing in 4.3 stars on Google, many reviewers complimented the atmosphere and the variety of cocktails.
A commenter on the Lexington food & dining news and sharing Facebook page said, “The service is perfect every time and their Old Fashioned is on point!”
The Sage Rabbit features a dog-friendly patio, and according to its Facebook page, has treats for dogs who come to visit.
Sage Rabbit at 438 S. Ashland Ave. has a pet-friendly patio. Herald-Leader
Boonedogs
5902 Old Richmond Rd., 859-554-6000
Boonedogs serves specialty hot dogs, artisan sausage, craft beer, cocktails and more.
Not only is there a sizable side yard for your dog to enjoy, but there is a “best friend wall” where customers can bring in a 5x7 photo of their dog/dogs to be hung up in the restaurant, according to its Facebook page.
Boonedogs gourmet hot dog restaurant is located on Old Richmond Road just outside Lexington. They have plenty of outside seating for dogs to roam around. Silas Walker swalker@herald-leader.com
