11 Dog Friendly Pubs, Bars, Cafes and Parks to Visit in Footscray, Melbourne
An inner-western suburb, Footscray, can be found five kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD. Its diverse and multicultural shopping and eateries reflect the successive waves of immigration Melbourne experienced for several decades in the latter parts of the 1990s. There are numerous dog-friendly parks and walks to be enjoyed in this western suburb. You can’t go past a Vietnamese roll or a smooth latte down Footscray Road with your pup.
Dog-friendly Parks and Walks
1. Footscray Park
Ballarat Road
This 15-hectare Edwardian Park is on the Heritage list of Victorian parks, and for a good reason. The park boasts beautiful local fauna and is a central hub for many socialists. So take your furry friend on a walk through the park and enjoy the views of the city and the Yarra River. Park had a dedicated off leash area.
2. Martin Reserve
Essex Street, West Footscray
Martin Reserve is fenced off making it an ideal area for dogs to be off-lead. The reserve has seating available for dog owners/handlers to sit while supervising their dogs as they roam and play in the shade of one of the many trees in this open space.
3. Hansen Reserve
Roberts Street, West Footscray
Hansen Reserve is a designated dog off-lead area with the exception of the area between the tennis courts and Roberts Street. At no times are dogs permitted to be off-lead in the area between the tennis courts and Roberts Street.
4. Newells Paddock
Jamieson Avenue
This beautiful park is a great place to walk your dog (on lead) as you both enjoy the peacefulness and enjoy the wetlands throughout. Note of warning, there are snakes about, so keep an extra eye out.
Free V.I.Pooch Travel Kit with every booking!
Dog-Friendly Pubs and Bars
5. The Station Hotel
59 Napier Street
Known for their steak, the Station Hotel will cater for any steak eater with their unique cooking styles and cuts of meat. So enjoy a cut in their large courtyard and maybe slip a tad bit under the table for your furry friend.
6. Back Alley Sally’s
4 Yewers Street
A previously abandoned multistorey warehouse, Back Alley Sally’s is the perfect pit stop for a beer and a cheap slice of pizza. With specials on most weeknights, you might as well grab your dog and say you’re going for a walk and ‘accidentally’ end up here.
7. Up In Smoke
28 Hopkins Street
Yes, this references the Chich and Chong film of the same name, but that’s where the references end. This dog and kid-friendly venue features a 20k smoker that cooks mean BBQ meat. Your pooch is welcome in the large beer garden where you can sip away on the numerous craft beers.
8. The Cheeky Pint
231 Barkly Street
With great homebrewed beer and a menu to match, what’s there not to like? This small and comfortable bar has outdoor seating for you and your pup, weather permitting. So, grab the dog, have a walk and grab a cheeky pint or two.
9. Littlefoot Bar
223 Barkly Street
The food and bev menu is kept substantially Victorian or Australian and they support local traders and farmers wherever possible. The delicious new dining options are inspired by their own and Footscray’s Italian heritage. Dogs are welcome on the covered outdoor dining area.
Free V.I.Pooch Travel Kit with every booking!
Dog-Friendly Cafes and Eateries
10. Myrtle Cafe
45 Moreland Street
Escape to a cozy oasis of coffee and comfort at dog friendly Myrtle Cafe – Melbourne’s hidden gem cafe. Savour their signature brews and delicious bites in a lush, plant-filled setting that’s sure to soothe your soul. Dogs are always welcome at the Myrtle Cafe and they also stock healthy treats for the furry customers. Thirsty for something delicious? Myrtle’s got you covered with their irresistible drink selection! From expertly crafted cocktails to refreshing mocktails, we’ve got something to satisfy every thirst.
11. The Local Cafe
38 Moore Street
The Local Cafe is a great dog friendly spot to stop for a coffee and/or breakfast. Super friendly service, great coffee and of course treats available for the furry customers. Dogs are always welcome to join you at The Local Cafe. Open from 5am for the early birds & pups.
