National Dog Day

Second Chance Beer Company (courtesy photo)

With National Dog Day just around the corner, August 26th marks the perfect occasion to shower our furry friends with extra love and appreciation! Get ready for a howling good celebration, where tail-wagging excitement takes center stage! We've curated an exceptional selection of San Diego's finest dog-friendly spots, ensuring an unforgettable outing that promises cherished memories and delectable dining experiences. 

Kick off your pet-filled adventures with your favorite brew at Second Chance Beer Company, the “Seize a Pint, Save a Pup” brewery with locations in Carmel Mountain Ranch and North Park. This is the ultimate spot to relish an award-winning beer alongside your pup, all while contributing to local dog rescues. Delight your loyal friend with an assortment of canine treats while you indulge in the exceptional flavors of Buddy Lager and New Day IPA – co-founders Virginia Morrison and Marty Mendiola donate 1% of sales of the core beers to local dog animal rescues like The Animal Pad and Second Chance Dog Rescue. Since the brewery’s founding in 2015, Morrison and Mendiola have donated more than $400,000. 

Elevate your weekend with Fido at Duck Dive in Pacific Beach, where a bottomless mimosa brunch awaits! Unwind in a surf-inspired beach lounge atmosphere while relishing American cuisine, coastal favorites, and a rotating list of local microbrews and craft cocktails. Don't miss their signature Carblano Benny, a delectable creation made with citrus-marinated carne asada, grilled tomato, and microgreens, topped with two poached eggs on an English muffin, slathered in a creamy poblano sauce, and served with breakfast potatoes. The dog-friendly patio adds to the charm, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your furry friend as you soak up the sun and savor every moment.  

Seeking a livelier change of pace? Take your pup over to Mavericks Beach Club, the quintessential waterfront multi-level bar capturing the festive spirit of San Diego. Immerse yourself in the iconic SoCal vibe on their dog-friendly patio, boasting expansive outdoor seating, live music, refreshing drinks, and Baja-inspired cuisine. You can't go wrong with their irresistible California Fries, a delectable ensemble of carne asada, queso fresco, guacamole, and pico de gallo, crowned with zesty lime crema. As you savor the moment, your furry companion can busk in the sun's warmth, relish a delightful assortment of treats from the mutt menu and engage with playful toys. 

After strolling through the beauty of Balboa Park, lounge away with an al fresco meal at Barrio Star. Located in Bankers Hill, this restaurant offers modern Mexican soul food complemented by mouthwatering margaritas and captivating live music. Their outdoor bar, which welcomes both humans and their furry companions, boasts ample space to revel in vibrant Latin flavors while basking in the sun's warmth. Try their amazing Barrio Torta, made with your choice of chicken or carnitas, with guacamole, cheese, jalapeno, lettuce, tomato, and mayo, served with house-thick fries and Cholula ketchup. As you treat your taste buds, be sure to share the joy with your friend, treating them to their favorite bites from the menu. 

Immerse yourself in the laid-back Caribbean ambiance at Miss B's Coconut Club, a charming open-air restaurant nestled in Mission Beach. Located steps away from the ocean, this outdoor oasis of tiki-infused flavors and relaxation makes for the perfect destination for you and your pup to enjoy together. Savor the flavor with their Jerk Jackfruit Wrap, an exquisite fusion of seasoned jerk jackfruit, fresh spring mix, tangy pineapple mango salsa, juicy tomatoes, roasted garlic aioli, and luscious mango chutney, all beautifully wrapped in a tomato tortilla. Complement this culinary delight with one of their refreshing cocktails- Miss B will supply the drinks, if you provide the pups! 

For a unique dining experience, head to City Tacos’s OB Playground in Ocean Beach, where delicious tacos meet a playful atmosphere. Imagine a charming canopy-shaded courtyard adorned with picnic tables, inviting lounges accented by fire pits, and the allure of bar rail seating—a harmonious blend of comfort and excitement. Indulge in Scallop Dreams Taco made with pepper cream flambéed scallops topped with Mexican squash, green onions, bacon, and cotija cheese on a crispy flour tortilla while your doggie frolics in the gated dog park adjacent to the seating area. This thoughtful arrangement allows you to enjoy your meal while keeping an eye on your beloved pet. City Tacos has won Best Taco accolades from Ranch & Coast magazine’s restaurant survey of its readers for four years in a row beginning in 2020. 

Make this National Dog Day an unforgettable escapade for both you and your loyal companion. Discover these charming dog-friendly locales that promise a bark-tastic extravaganza, great food, and moments that will linger in your hearts.