After the umpteenth time of dealing with a parsimonious pal who uses a calculator to divvy up the bill, you may imagine a more pleasant dining experience with anyone else -- even your dog.
After all, your furry friend doesn't nickel-and-dime you. Heck, he doesn't even complain when he's in need of a water refill! For diners wanting to exchange their human eating partners for a canine, here are five restaurants that offer a pet-friendly nosh.
- South Shores Tavern & Patio Bar
502 Lucerne Ave., Lake Worth
South Shores Tavern & Patio Bar boastsa large outdoor patio and features tropics-inspired noshes. The
restaurant's new chef, Joe Angelucci, told Clean Plate Charlie
that the restaurant is seriously considering adding a pet-friendly food
menu. "I get about three to four pet orders a week," says Angelucci.
Hard-boiled eggs and burger patties are the most popular requests, he
explained, and they sell their egg delights for 50 cents! Stay tuned for
the final word on an official pet menu.
- Coconut's Bahama Grill
429 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort Lauderdale
This seafood restaurant, located on the Intracoastal Waterway just south of Las Olas Boulevard and Fort Lauderdale's main beach, says it's "pet friendly for friendly pets" -- and the staff isn't afraid to uphold the doggy code of conduct. "We've had to kick a few dogs out of here," an employee said. If your sociable pet can get past the doorman, there is a doggy treat and a refreshing water bowl waiting for him. The restaurant is happy to accommodate a food order by chopping chow into bite-sized pieces to be served in an animal dish at your table. - Darbster Waterside Bistro
8020 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach
When a restaurant is named after a beloved pet, it's no surprise that the establishment is pet-friendly. The name Darbster is a nod to Darby -- the restaurant owners' 17-year-old poodle. The waterfront vegetarian restaurant features a "Dog Night" every Sunday; receive 20 percent off all entrées if you bring your dog between 5 and 7 p.m. - Georgie's Alibi
2266 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors
Georgie's Alibi, known for being voted "Best Burger in Fort Lauderdale" in the 2010 Riverwalk Trust Burger Battle, will accommodate pet owners with a water dish if you are seated in its outdoor patio. In the company of your adoring animal, you can taste "The Champ" for yourself -- adorned with caramelized onions, chipotle aioli, and American cheese. *Tip: Order the burger plain and without a bun for your buddy. - San Francisco Burrito Co.
5187 S. University Drive, Davie
Watch chefs prepare an inexpensive gourmet burrito, then take your meal to the outside patio with your dear ol' dog. Employees will happily give him a milk bone and a water dish, which may decrease the incessant begging for a nibble of your delicious Southwestern dish.
Do you have a favorite pet-friendly eatery? Let us know in the comments section of another great place to take pets.
