(Left to right) Claire Newman with her favorite date, Winston, on the porch at Bistro A Vin; Charleston Sports Pub.
Like to eat out with your pal? While most local eateries allow well-behaved dogs at their outdoor tables, here are a few standouts that go the extra mile in welcoming, and sometimes serving, four-legged diners—plus some dog-centric watering holes.
Bohemian Bull: Leashed canine patrons can party with their people in the fenced back area of this James Island burger haven. Water bowls and treats await, and pups can order grilled chicken or a plain burger patty if they want a snack. 1531 Folly Rd., James Island. bohemianbull.com
Charleston Sports Pub: Sit and stay a while on this shaded patio near Mount Pleasant Towne Centre where humans can load up on your favorite pub fare (think wings, burgers, fish and chips, and more) and four-legged friends have their own special menu. It features foods all dogs dream about: bacon, scrambled eggs, chicken, sausage, and burger patties. 1909 N. Hwy. 17, Mount Pleasant. charlestonsportspub.com
Ellis Creek Fish Camp (pictured above): This rustic eatery has a large, outdoor deck with picnic tables, booths, and marsh-side seating where guests can comfortably dine with their canines. Water bowls are at the ready, and refills keep coming. There’s even a doggie menu, including “Camp Plates” of beef stew or turkey dinner, as well as King of Pups dessert, so there’s no begging when your meal arrives. 1243 Harbor View Rd., James Island. elliscreekfishcamp.com
Lost Dog Café: Dog lovers feel right at home in this comfy, casual breakfast, brunch, and lunch favorite named in honor of the owner’s golden, Hocus, who took regular walkabouts. Here, canines are treated like VIPs—Very Important Pooches. They’re greeted with treats at the door and just might get their photos added to the wall of fame. 106 W. Huron Ave., Folly Beach. lostdogfollybeach.com
Tattooed Moose: Brunch under the oaks of this John’s Island outpost of the recently closed downtown original. You’ll find spacious outdoor seating, Food Network-worthy sandwiches, music, water bowls, and lots of other leashed friends to sniff. 3328 Maybank Hwy., John’s Island. tattooedmoose.com
Photographs courtesy of Bistro A Vin & by (Charleston Sports Pub) Hulsey Photography & (Ellis Creek Fish Camp) Elizabeth Gouldin