After a long, strange string of snowstorms and wild temperature fluctuations, it feels as though we here in Kansas City are finally settling into the brief but glorious season of Spring! As a transplant to the midwest, I’m always thrilled at the awakening that occurs; flowers in bloom, trees leafing out, fountains gurgling and a plethora of pet lovers heading out and about to enjoy the many dog-friendly spots Kansas City has to offer!
Here at Beyond the Dog, we are huge fans of the many pet-friendly restaurants and eateries that dot the metro area. We love to explore with our dogs-in-training and are thrilled when we run into former four-legged clients and see their good manners on full display as they enjoy a bit of socialization and delicious food alongside their owners! As you get out and about, we recommend checking out some of our favorites:
The Char Bar
Always a great stop for delicious BBQ, the Char Bar’s outdoor seating area and bar are perfect for enjoying some fun with your pet! Located in historic Westport, this restaurant is popular among families, young professionals and college students, all of whom love to hang out and enjoy the fire pit, patio bar, ping-pong and cornhole games! If the temperatures aren’t quite up to snuff, there are heaters to keep you and your pets nice and toasty too.
We recommend: After a weekend walk or hike with your four-legged friend, stop by and enjoy the Char Bar’s delicious brunch offerings served 10-2 Saturday and Sunday!
Brewery Emperial
If craft brews and seasonal eats are more your style, check out the beer garden at Brewery Emperial! This fun spot is located a few blocks from Union Station, the Crown Center and Hospital Hill, making it a great place to refresh after taking in some of the Kansas City sights.
We recommend: Spend some time after work tossing a ball or frisbee at Washington Square or Hospital Hill Park and walk the quick few blocks to wet your (and Wibur’s) whistle with a craft brew and complimentary water bowl. Make sure to order your very good boy (or girl) a “bEgood Doggo Burger” – they’ll reward you handsomely with lots of slobbery kisses.
Chicken N Pickle
At the forefront of the pickleball craze, Chicken N Pickle’s original North Kansas City location is one of our favorite spots to show off our athleticism (or lack thereof)! Their ample outdoor seating is pet-friendly and their other game offerings – giant Battleship and Connect Four – ensure there is plenty to do while waiting for a court to open up! Chicken N Pickle now also has locations in Overland Park and Wichita as well as Oklahoma City, San Antonio and Grand Prairie, TX!
We recommend: If your pup is ball obsessed, make sure to bring one of their own lest they snag a wayward pickleball from some unsuspecting patron! (On the flip side, this is a great spot to work on obedience and manners around lots of distractions.)
Taco Republic
When you and your pup are in the mood for some delicious Mexican and creative cocktails, we suggest heading to the dog-friendly patio at Taco Republic! The a la cart menu ordering ensures you can get just the right amount of tacos – plus one for your BFF, of course. Just across from another famous KC eatery, this busy hub provides excellent opportunities for socializing your dog around people and pets.
We recommend: As the temperatures warm, spend some time on a stroll with your pup through Loose Park to see the gardens in bloom and watch the ducks and then head on over to enjoy some fresh chips, guacamole and a spicy Verde margarita!
The Kansas City area is quickly becoming one of the more pet-friendly cities in the country! We love to see more and more spots adding patio seating and offering pup-friendly menu options too. As you explore, keep an eye out for our trainers, they can often be spotted working with one of their dogs-in-training at one of the great spots.
Have another pet-friendly restaurant you’d like to recommend?
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