Hi, Melbourne 👋

Here’s the thing about cafes and dogs in Melbourne: We love to bring our pups along for a cuppa, but this thing called the State Food Act can make it a bit difficult sometimes.

The State Food Act makes it illegal to allow animals that are not assistance animals inside food premises. Like, period. No exceptions. It’s not up to the business owner, it’s law. So, what we call a dog-friendly cafe, is when the business owner allows dogs in the outdoor dining areas.

Luckily, there are lots of great cafes around Melbourne that are welcoming to dogs. And we are constantly adding new places to this article, to make sure that you can easily find a dog-friendly cafe near your home.