The Best Dog Friendly Restaurants in Asheville, NC
Attractions,  Family Friendly

The 15 Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Asheville

Asheville’s most significant honor is to be known as “Dog City, USA.” This city loves dogs and welcomes them (almost) everywhere. There are lovely dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, bars (including a dog playground with a bar for humans!), and breweries to hang out with your best friend while exploring our fantastic food and beverage scene.

Of course, the city’s green areas and surroundings make it an ideal place for the family’s furry members to join you on your trip! Also, most stores allow well-behaved dogs on leashes, and plenty of walkable neighborhoods will let you take your friend for a stroll.

Did you know that our city features the first Dog Welcome Center? It’s downtown by the Grove Arcade and is the go-to place to find information about dog-friendly activities in our area, including the best dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville. This is also an excellent place to take a break from walking the busy streets, drink water, and get doggie snacks.

A restaurant with outdoor seating that doesn’t allow dogs is rare. Most establishments welcome them outdoors, and many are happy to have them indoors. All the breweries, for example, are so glad to have dogs on their patios just for you to get to experience two of the best things life (and Asheville!) has to offer at once. 

Please remember that dogs must be leashed at all times, and it’s always a good idea to bring bowls, treats, and even a bed for them to be more relaxed. 

If you’re looking to go out on the town with your furry friend and don’t know where to start, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville – but there are many more. Some of these restaurants even feature dog menus, including beer and desserts!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Asheville

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Dog-Friendly Asheville Restaurants

1. Malaprop’s 

Dog Friendly Things to Do in Asheville: Malaprops

Malaprop’s is the oldest, most loved independent bookstore in Asheville. Founded in 1982 and located in the heart of downtown, it features a broad collection of local and regional authors, an excellent, interactive children’s section, fun Asheville gifts for the bookworms in your life (including you!), and a well-stocked café. 

Of course, the furry members of your family are welcome, and this invitation is not limited to dogs. You can also bring your cats, rabbits, and other adorable creatures if they are well-behaved and willing to share their book recommendations. Plus, you’ll love to have your puppy featured on the new Malapups Instagram profile (“A Literary Canine Compendium”) that’s melting everyone’s heart.

Dog Friendly Restaurants in Asheville: Malaprops

The café serves Counter Culture Coffee, premium teas, and yummy treats and drinks from local companies. Don’t miss the baked goods from The Rhu, the Buchi kombucha, the grass-fed jerky from Hickory Nut Gap, and the Small Axe Hemp Gummies. Plus, it’s one of the best coffee shops in Asheville to work from

Read our complete review of Malaprop’s here!

Location: 55 Haywood Street, Asheville


2. Luella’s Bar-B-Que

Restaurants tha are Dog Friendly in Asheville:  Luellas
Images courtesy of Luella’s

Luella’s has been around since 2007 and serves some of the best Southern comfort food in town. The North Asheville location is accessible from Five Points and Montford by walking or biking the Reed Creek and Glenn Creek’s greenways and next to Weaver Park. 

So, you and your furry friend will have plenty of chances to exercise before settling down for lunch or dinner. The roomy, enclosed, heated outdoor seating area is perfect for doggies and their humans, making Luella’s one of the top dog-friendly Asheville restaurants.

You will enjoy the award-winning wings, the chopped pork BBQ, and the fantastic side dishes. We love the Hush Puppies, the Fried Okra, the Mac and Cheese, and the homemade sauces, especially the Sweet Pisgah. Also, their Scratch-Made Banana Pudding is the perfect end to any meal. They have seasonal pies all year round, too.

You and your pup will love the welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere, the hospitality, and the family packages that will give you the best value for your money. 

Location: 501 Merrimon Avenue, Asheville


3. 12 Bones Smokehouse

Dog Friendly Restaurants in Asheville: 12 Bones Smokehouse
Images courtesy of 12 Bones

12 Bones Smokehouse in the River Arts District has been around since 2005, when today’s famous art district wasn’t nearly as hip as it is today. This is where the Obamas eat when they visit Asheville, and it’s made it to the worldwide news for the famous guests and the excellent food. The users of the app Bring Fido have consistently given 12 Bones the highest ranking (5 bones!) as one of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville, NC.

The outdoor area is perfect for dogs, and the location by the French Broad River, parks, and greenways allows plenty of opportunities for exercise and sunshine. Also, most of the River Arts District’s art galleries and shops are pet-friendly, so Fido can enjoy (or inspire!) local art.

You’ll adore the 12 Bones Baby Back Ribs with Blueberry Chipotle sauce. Make sure you order it with plenty of side dishes, and don’t miss the Jalapeño Cheese Grits, the Smoked Potato Salad, and the melt-in-your-mouth Damn Good Corn Puddin’. 

This barbeque is unique and different from anything you’ve tried. So “Let the purists be the purists, fire up the grill, and enjoy some Southern ‘cue, 12 Bones style!” 

Location: 5 Foundy Street #10, Asheville


4. White Duck Taco Shop

Best Dog Friendly Things to Do in Asheville: White Duck

Well, not all dogs eat tacos, but if your dog is like mine and enjoys food as much as you enjoy your dog, you’ll have to bring them to White Duck in the River Arts District.

This is one of the top dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville, mainly because of the plentiful outdoor seating by the French Broad River and the opportunity to walk around the River Arts District and play by the water. 

Remember that dogs are not allowed inside, and the counter service is indoors. So, you’ll need to leave Fido outside, either in the yard or in your car, while you order.

White Duck tacos are amazing, but they are not traditional Mexican tacos. Still, you’ll love the Lamb Gyro, the Crispy Chicken BLT, and Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tacos. Also, their queso is the best in town! 

Read our complete review here!

Location: 388 Riverside Drive, Asheville


5. The Cantina

The Cantina Fresh Mex and Tequila Bar at the Historic Biltmore Village serves upscale Mexican food and welcomes furry friends during every season. They have all the classic Mexican food staples, and all dishes are handmade using local and seasonal ingredients.

Are you or your dog avocado fans? Try their famous Stuffed Grilled Avocado filled with shrimp or chicken paired with the Avocado Margarita (for humans only!). 

Its proximity to the entrance of the Biltmore House makes it an ideal place to visit before or after seeing America’s largest home. Remember that dogs are welcome to walk the grounds and gardens of the Biltmore Estate and are not allowed in the buildings. There are self-service kennels where you can leave Fido during your visit to the House, but please call in advance to confirm the availability of these services.

Besides being one of the most dog-friendly Asheville restaurants, The Cantina is very amenable to vegans and people with gluten sensitivities. It also shows sports games, in case you want to watch the big game. 

Location: 10 Biltmore Plaza, Asheville


6. All Day Darling

Restaurants tha are Dog Friendly in Asheville:   All Day Darling
Images courtesy of All Day Darling

All Day Darling is a jewel loved by locals. It’s open every day from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm (9:00 pm in the summer). It has a broad menu of food and drinks, plenty of outdoor seating, the friendliest staff in the city, and it’s in the walkable and historic neighborhood of Montford.

You’ll see dogs and their humans at all times there, proving this is one of the top dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville, NC. The food is excellent, and you should try the Israeli Shakshuka (eggs with tomato sauce and homemade pita bread), the Lox Plate, and the Fried Chicken Biscuit. 

In addition, they have a kids’ menu, the offer a great selection of house-made pastries, and their signature drinks are incredible – give the Spicy Drinky a try (a latte with cayenne, vanilla, and cinnamon).

The café is in Montford, close to Montford Park, the Tempie Avery Park, and greenways, perfect for a stroll with your dog.

Before you leave All Day Darling, buy one of the best treats (another hidden jewel) in town: Folk Saints, dulce de leche that’s homemade in Asheville by a native from Argentina. 

Read our complete review of All Day Darling here!

Location: 102 Montford Avenue, Asheville


7. Green Man Brewery

Dog Friendly Asheville Restaurants:  Green Man Brewery
Image courtesy of 12 Bones Green Man Brewery

Green Man Brewery, “the Soul of the South Slope,” was founded in 1997, and it’s one of North Carolina’s original breweries, producing traditional English-style brews and now serving food. 

Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome to sit indoors with their humans. This and the fact that the pups can get treats made with the exact grain that goes into Green Man’s award-winning beer make this brewery one of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville.

Green Man Brewery is located in Downtown’s South Slope, an entirely walkable district full of breweries, restaurants, and art galleries. You’ll love walking your dog while following the South Slope Mural Trail.

In addition to exceptional beers, in 2022, they opened Green Man Eats, serving “scratch-made pub fare done right.” Don’t miss the Fish & Chips made with cod coated in Green Man IPA beer batter, fried to order, and served with house-cut fries, fresh lemon, and tartar sauce. 

Location: 27 Buxton Avenue, Asheville 


8. The Hop

Dog Friendly Asheville Restaurants:  The Hop

The Hop is one of the best dessert places in Asheville and one of the pioneers of including furry family friends in their menu: the ice cream shop has been offering frozen treats for dogs and cats since 2010!

They offer prepackaged servings of all-natural peanut butter and frozen banana yogurt (no sugar added) in stock at their four locations in North, West, and Downtown Asheville, as well as Black Mountain.

The Hop in Downtown Asheville is in the S&W historical building, a food court with fantastic food and drink options for everyone. Pritchard Park is across the street, making it an ideal stop for Fido to enjoy some ice cream in the shade. 

Downtown Asheville is very walkable and dog-friendly. Another great stop to take a break from strolling the city and play Frisbee is Pack Square in the center of town.

Of course, The Hop also has the most incredible desserts for humans! The flavors are unique, and they often include ingredients from other Asheville shops, like French Broad Chocolate or local beers, along with other seasonal and locally grown produce. 

Location: 56 Patton Avenue, Asheville


9. Mellow Mushroom

Mellow Mushroom is a Southern pizza classic known for its excellent stone-baked pizzas, calzones, hoagies, and sandwiches. The patio is perfect for puppies. It has umbrellas, plenty of space between tables for dogs to lay down, trees, and funky, psychedelic decor. It also features a wall around it, adding extra privacy from pedestrians (this is important because the location is very centric).

Dogs are offered a water bowl, and you can order a plain burger for them to enjoy while you eat your Mighty Meaty or Veg Out pie. (Please don’t forget to avoid giving food to your dog if other dogs are around.) Of course, doggies are not the only pets welcome at Mellow Mushroom. We’ve seen cats and even chickens on a leash!

You’ll love the colorful patio and dining room (Grateful Dead-inspired decor, anyone?), the fun cocktails, the local beer flights, and the outdoors Ronald McStardust statue (imagine a mystical version of Ronald McDonald!). Also, since 2008, they have turned 3,750,000 pounds of pizza scraps into some of the richest compost in Asheville. 

Location: 50 Broadway Street, Asheville


10. Posana

Dog Friendly Things to Do in Asheville: Posana
Images courtesy of Posana

Posana is a fantastic and unique restaurant in Downtown Asheville. It’s one of the top places for a romantic date and one of the top dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville, NC. Among its unique features, it offers a 100% gluten-free menu (also lovable by those who eat gluten) with dishes made with locally grown, seasonal produce, a top-notch wine selection, and a three-course dog menu!

Dogs are welcome on the covered, heated patio most of the year. It’s a lovely space to people-watch since it’s right across the street from Pack Square. Something is always happening on that corner, which is probably the busiest in town.

The dog menu includes house-made doggie biscuits to start, an entree of grilled Joyce Farms chicken and brown rice, and a seasonal selection of doggie ice cream for dessert. Of course, dishes are served in adorable dog bowls. Water bowls are provided as well, but your pup might choose to drink either the Bowser Beer, Cock-a-Doodle Brew or the Bowser Beer, Beefy Brown Ale – or both! 

Location: 1 Biltmore Avenue, Asheville


11. Liberty House Café

Dog Friendly Asheville Restaurants: Liberty House Café

Liberty House Café is one of the coolest off-the-tourist track places to eat breakfast, lunch, and brunch, and it features an extensive outdoor, grassy area, fruit trees, flowers, and shade for dogs and kids.

Located in North Asheville and within walking distance to Downtown Asheville, it is in a cute little section by the YMCA and Trader Joe’s, next to the renowned Asheville Yoga Center. 

The menu has something for everyone, from Avo Toast, French Toast, and a Farmhouse Skillet featuring local produce to Southern food staples, salads, and sandwiches, including a fantastic burger that Fido will love. The house-made baked goods are very tasty, and the menu features various drinks.

You’ll especially enjoy the seating areas on the covered porch and the garden. You’ll find privacy and get inspiration from the fruit trees, the gigantic sunflowers in the summer, and the bees and butterflies that bring life and color to this beautiful urban garden. 

Location: 221 South Liberty Street, Asheville


12. Farm Burger

Farm Burger is hands down one of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville. It has a covered (and heated) outdoor seating area where dogs and their humans can enjoy fantastic grass-fed burgers and local beers.

The burgers are made with meat from cows that were never given antibiotics or hormones and were humanely handled. The result is a fantastic menu of burgers, including chicken, pork, and vegan options. Their salads are made with seasonal produce and are so good! 

They offer a variety of side dishes, including Slow-Cooked Collards, Sweet Potato Hushpuppies with Apple Butter, Sweet Potato Fries, and FB Fries with spicy garlic, parmesan, and herbs.

If you are thirsty for more local beer after dinner, go to the basement and find One World Brewing, the only Asheville brewery in a basement where dogs are allowed inside the building. 

Location: 10 Patton Avenue, Asheville


13. Wag Bar

Dog Friendly Things to Do in Asheville: Wag Bar
Images courtesy of Wag Bar

You and your dog will have a blast at Wag Bar, which was voted “Best Pet-Friendly Bar/Brewery” by local Mountain Xpress readers. The idea is genius: a 25,000-square-foot park where dogs can play off-leash while their humans enjoy drinks and food. 

This is not your plain-old muddy when it rains/dusty when it’s sunny dog park with zero shade. This playground is for dogs, and the equipment includes agility obstacles and a kiddie pool. Plus, the possibility to hang out with local and visiting dogs (and their humans). 

They serve local beers, ciders, wines, and nonalcoholic beverages. Of course, they also have snacks for your doggies because this is all for them! Some human snacks are for sale, but you can also bring outdoor food from one of your favorite restaurants.

The good news? Wag Bar is next door to Stoney Knob Cafe, an excellent Greek restaurant that will make the perfect choice for your lunch at the doggie playground. 

Location: 320 Merrimon Avenue, Weaverville


14. Isa’s French Bistro

The brasserie-style restaurant Isa’s French Bistro features seasonal lunch, dinner, and brunch menus, focusing on local ingredients and offering international and New American dishes. 

Doggies are welcome on the patio along the sidewalk, which is the best part of the restaurant, overseeing one of the most active parts of Downtown Asheville, ideal for people-watching.

Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays. The comprehensive menu offers something for everyone, from NC Chicken & French Toast and Lox & Waffles to fabulous house-made pastries and many beverage options. Don’t hesitate to order a plain hamburger for your fur friend!

In addition, Isa’s Bistro offers complimentary valet parking through the Haywood Park Hotel next door. 

Location: 1 Battery Park Avenue, Asheville


15. Twisted Laurel

You and your pup will be total foodies like us when you leave Asheville! Like Posana, Twisted Laurel also features a dog menu. To make it even better, besides having one of the best patios in downtown, this dog-friendly Asheville restaurant is across the street from Pack Square, which features a green area and a splash pad in the summer where dogs are welcome!

There are four protein choices: Grilled Trout, Burger, Veggie “Burger,” and Scrambled Eggs. But, of course, you’ll want to have a side of veggies, and this is when Grilled Brussels Sprouts, Asparagus, and Sweet Potato come to the rescue. While no dog beer is involved here, snacks and doggie ice cream are available. 

For the humans in the family, Twisted Laurel serves excellent Italian-American-inspired comfort foods, including to-die-for stone hearth pizza pies. 

Location: 130 College Street, Asheville 

There you have it! The 15 best dog-friendly restaurants in Asheville, NC. What are your favorite dog-friendly Asheville restaurants? Let us know so we can add them to the list!


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Born in Argentina, Laura is a journalist who's lived in Asheville for 10 years. She loves all things Asheville, from the vast business scene to the beautiful nonprofits, magical people, and marvelous nature. She loves being involved in projects that are the change she wants to see in the world.

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