For those of you who are pet owners, you’re likely all too familiar with the constant dilemma of finding dog-friendly restaurants in the city. When you are out and about, especially on a hot summer day, the last thing you want to do is leave your pet in the car while you enjoy a bite to eat. Finding a dog-friendly eatery is the epitome of the perfect day out with your furry friend. As dog lovers ourselves, we’re here to help! Nashville is filled with dog-friendly restaurants—nearly 200, according to BringFido—ready to welcome you and your pet to their outdoor seating. These are just a few of our personal favorites. 

12 South Taproom & Grill

We may have a fondness for this restaurant simply because it was one of the first dog-friendly places we tried in Nashville. Fresh bowls of water and picnic-style seating on their ample patio made this the perfect first dinner out with our fur baby in Nashville. Located in the 12 South neighborhood, the taproom offers nearly 30 different beers and ciders on tap, as well as a wide selection of food for nearly every appetite, from tacos and burgers to salads, seafood, and even some kid-friendly choices. 12 South Taproom has been a staple in the neighborhood since 2006 and has earned their badge as one of our favorite—and one of the first—dog-friendly restaurants in Nashville.

2318 12th Ave South 

Nashville, TN

Double Dogs

We might as well keep this restaurant at the top of the list since it is one of Nashville’s restaurants actually named after our favorite pets. Double Dogs is a pub-style eatery that has locations in both Tennessee and Kentucky, including two in Nashville. Dogs are welcome on the patios at both the Hillsboro Village and Sylvan Heights locations. While the patios aren’t large—the Sylvan Heights location offers more seating—they are fenced in and covered, providing a safe, shaded place for you and your dog to enjoy a meal out. 

Hillsboro Village

1807 21st Avenue South

Nashville, TN 37212

Sylvan Heights

4017 Charlotte Ave.

Nashville, TN 37209

Greko Greek Street Food

If you’re in the mood for some great Mediterranean food, we recommend heading over to this East Nashville favorite. Greko Greek Street Food offers a great selection of fresh, authentic food and incredibly ample portions. Not only that, but you and your fur baby can enjoy the spacious private patio (which is partially shaded) along with all of your friends.

704 Main Street

Nashville, TN 37206

Village Pub and Beer Garden

Village Pub is another East Nashville favorite located at the intersection of McGavock Pike and Riverside Drive. This fun, neighborhood pub offers a great selection of libations and some fun pub food favorites, including their famous stuffed pretzel sandwich. And don’t forget to try the classic warm pretzel and housemade beer cheese. Best of all, the covered, wraparound patio offers plenty of space for your furry companion to stretch out and catch some pretzel crumbs while you enjoy an evening out.

1308 McGavock Pk 

Nashville, TN 37216

Peg Leg Porker

Head on over to the Gulch to enjoy some of Nashville’s favorite BBQ and a spacious dog-friendly seating area. Peg Leg Porker is a local favorite (we recommend taking your out-of-town friends and family!) and as dog-friendly as they come. Picnic-style seating on their large patio leaves plenty of room to find the perfect spot for you, your friends, and Rover too.

903 Gleaves St

Nashville, TN 37203

Tennessee Brew Works

Looking for a place to enjoy a fresh happy hour drink? You and your dog are welcome at Tennessee Brew Works and its abundant outdoor seating area. The SoBro taproom not only boasts a huge selection of craft beer, but also a great menu of artisanal food options. Come for a taco, stay for a beer, and don’t forget to bring your furry friend.

809 Ewing Ave

Nashville, TN 37203

Frothy Monkey

Our list of favorite dog-friendly restaurants wouldn’t be complete without a coffee shop. Although, if you have been in Nashville any length of time, you know that Frothy Monkey is way more than just a coffee shop. Whether you come for brunch, lunch, or to refuel, and nearly all of the area’s locations welcome pets in their outdoor seating areas. Looking for a nice place to enjoy brunch on the patio? You’ll definitely find plenty of space for you and fido at the 12 South and Franklin locations.

12 South

2509 12th Ave South

Nashville, TN 37204

The Nations

1400 51st Ave N

Nashville, TN 37209

Franklin

125 5th ave south

Franklin, TN 37064

Other Dog-Friendly Places We Love

Steadfast Coffee

603 Taylor Street

Nashville, TN

Edley’s Bar-B-Que

East Nashville: 908 Main Street

12 South: 2706 12th Ave S

Sylvan Park: 4500 Murphy Road

Pomodoro East

701 Porter Rd

Nashville, TN 37206

Germantown Pub

708 Monroe St

Nashville, TN 37208

Butchertown Hall

1416 4th Ave N

Nashville, TN 37208

Hurry Back

2212 Elliston Pl

Nashville, TN 37203

Puckett’s Downtown

500 Church St

Nashville, TN 37219