12 Best Dog-Friendly Patios in Minneapolis-St. Paul (2026)
The best dog-friendly patios in Minneapolis-St. Paul include The Howe, Stanley's Northeast Bar Room, Aster Cafe, Stray Dog, Hola Arepa, Burger Moe's, Hai Hai, The Freehouse, Barbette, Book Club, Fletcher's Ice Cream, and Lake & Irving. Each welcomes leashed pups with water bowls, shade, and a warm Twin Cities greeting — perfect for patio season.
It's official, people (and pups!): patio season is upon us. And if you're anything like us, you want the best of the best for you and your dog. From Northeast Minneapolis beer gardens to St. Paul burger joints and a lakeside ice cream stop, the Twin Cities are packed with restaurants that roll out the welcome mat for four-legged guests. Below are 12 of our favorite dog-friendly patios in Minneapolis-St. Paul, plus a quick rundown of the local rules and etiquette that keep patios pup-friendly for everyone. Making the most of the warm months? Your pup is also welcome at these dog-friendly coffee shops around Minneapolis.
Are Dogs Allowed on Restaurant Patios in Minnesota?
Yes — with some local nuance. Minnesota is one of a handful of states with a law specifically allowing cities to permit dogs in designated outdoor dining areas. Under the state statute, a city can adopt an ordinance letting food and beverage establishments welcome dogs on their patios, as long as basic conditions are met (Animal Legal & Historical Center).
At a minimum, dogs must be leashed and under control, can't sit on chairs or tables, and employees generally can't handle them; any accidents must be cleaned up promptly (CBS Minnesota). Because the rules are set at the city level, the specifics vary — in Minneapolis, for example, restaurants must notify the city that they allow dogs on patios (Animal Legal & Historical Center FAQ). The upshot: always call ahead to confirm a patio is currently dog-welcoming before you go.
The 12 Best Dog-Friendly Patios in the Twin Cities
1. The Howe Daily Kitchen & Bar
The Howe is a gem for dog owners, with two pup-friendly patios, a dedicated dog menu, and delicious meals for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. As one of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Minneapolis, it's a must-visit — grab a drink while your pooch relaxes and enjoys some gourmet pup food.
2. Stanley's Northeast Bar Room
Stanley's is your one-stop-shop for everything fun. With a great menu for you and one for your floof, this dog-friendly patio works any time of year. A heated, covered patio, a complimentary "Nilla Woofer," and good times are all waiting for you.
3. Aster Cafe
Looking for a refreshing cocktail on a hot summer day? Aster Cafe is here for you, and its riverside patio is here for your pup. Chill out to live music while Fido soaks up belly rubs from the friendly staff.
4. Stray Dog
Stray dogs are never a good thing — unless we're talking about this Hennepin Ave. patio. Stray Dog has no shortage of menu categories, so you'll find something delicious, and your woofer will be in absolute heaven on the outdoor patio. Dog is right in the name, so you know it's the place to be.
5. Hola Arepa
More fond of the spicier things in life? Add Hola Arepa to your list. The dog-friendly patio comes fully equipped with shade-offering umbrellas and, of course, some of the best arepas in Minneapolis.
6. Burger Moe's
When you're craving a juicy burger (and fries, of course), head to Burger Moe's on St. Paul's lively West 7th Street. You and your pup can enjoy a burger, a brew, and a ball game on the dog-friendly patio, all wrapped in a fun, sports-bar atmosphere.
7. Hai Hai
Hai Hai is a Northeast Minneapolis spot focused on the fresh, bold flavors of Southeast Asia, with menu stars like Hanoi sticky rice and savory Vietnamese crepes. There are gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, plus local craft beer and unique cocktails — and water bowls are available on the patio.
8. The Freehouse
A perennial favorite, The Freehouse delivers house-made and local craft beers alongside delicious New American cuisine, served on a partially tree-shaded patio that seats 80. It's a supremely pup-friendly joint, with water bowls available by request.
9. Barbette
Frenchies will ruv Barbette's dog-friendly patio in Minneapolis. With locally sourced ingredients, a gluten-free menu, and plenty of water and belly rubs, it's a must-visit that'll have you saying paw la la.
10. Book Club
Book Club is a California-inspired eatery serving its twist on New American fare, including green curry mussels and wood-fired Balinese chicken. Pull up a seat and find out what all the fluff's about — water bowls are available for your pup.
11. Fletcher's Ice Cream
Treat yourself and your furry bestie in a single stop at Fletcher's Ice Cream. The menu features a frozen, homemade treat with bananas, peanut butter, and vanilla yogurt that's 100% dog-approved.
12. Lake & Irving
Nestled between Uptown and Bde Maka Ska, Lake & Irving has a welcoming, shaded patio with treats and water bowls on paw for furry guests. Keep the paw-ty going with a walk around the lake, a stop at the Lake of the Isles off-leash area, or a paddleboard cruise together.
Dog Patio Etiquette: How to Be a Great Guest
A few simple habits keep patios welcoming for every dog (and every diner):
- Keep your dog leashed and tucked under or beside your table, out of walkways and away from servers.
- Bring a well-exercised, calm pup. A long walk beforehand makes for a relaxed patio companion.
- Pack the essentials — a collapsible water bowl, a favorite chew, and waste bags.
- Read the room. If your dog is barking or stressed, it's kinder to call it a day and try again another time.
- Tip well and clean up. Gracious guests keep these patios dog-friendly for the next pup.
What to Bring for a Patio Outing
Summer in the Twin Cities can get warm, so plan for your dog's comfort. Bring fresh water (even where bowls are provided), seek out shaded seating, and watch hot pavement on the walk in — if it's too hot for your bare hand, it's too hot for paws. Keep an eye out for dropped food and skip sharing table scraps, since rich restaurant fare can upset a dog's stomach.
Make a Day of It in the Twin Cities
Patio-hopping is even better as part of a full dog-friendly day. Pair brunch with a stop at one of the area's best dog-friendly restaurants, cool off at a Twin Cities brewery that welcomes dogs inside, or plan an overnight at one of the best dog-friendly hotels in Minneapolis. When the weather turns, our guide to heated St. Paul and Minneapolis patios keeps the outdoor fun going year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on restaurant patios in Minneapolis?
Yes, many Minneapolis patios welcome leashed dogs. Under Minnesota law, cities can permit dogs in designated outdoor dining areas, and Minneapolis requires restaurants to notify the city that they allow it. Always confirm with the restaurant first.
What are the rules for bringing a dog to a patio in Minnesota?
Generally, dogs must be leashed and under control, can't be on chairs or tables, and shouldn't be handled by staff. Owners must clean up any accidents. Specific rules vary by city ordinance.
Which Twin Cities patio has a dog menu?
The Howe Daily Kitchen & Bar offers a dedicated dog menu, and Stanley's Northeast Bar Room serves complimentary dog treats, making both top picks for spoiling your pup.
Do dog-friendly patios provide water bowls?
Many do — including Hai Hai, The Freehouse, Book Club, and Lake & Irving — though it's smart to bring your own collapsible bowl just in case.
Is there a patio where my dog can get a treat?
Yes! Fletcher's Ice Cream serves a dog-approved frozen treat made with banana, peanut butter, and vanilla yogurt — a perfect warm-weather reward.
How can I make sure a patio is currently dog-friendly?
Policies can change seasonally, so call the restaurant or check its website or social media before visiting to confirm dogs are welcome on the patio.
What Are Your Favorite Pup-Loving Patios?
The Twin Cities patio scene is always growing, so we'd love to hear where you and your pup like to kick back in the warm weather. Looking for more places to explore together? Find pet-friendly places near you with our dog-friendly Minneapolis-St. Paul shopping guide, and subscribe to the Daily Wag newsletter for fresh dog-friendly Twin Cities recommendations all season long.
