In this extract from the book Dog Friendly London, we discover four restaurants and bars where both you and your pooch will be pampered.
Pavilion Cafe, Victoria Park
Top up your stroll around Victoria Park by settling in among the Frenchies, whippets, and dachshunds of east London at this chilled brunch hotspot. Eggs benedict and other favourites are on the menu, but you’re really here for the Sri Lankan breakfast — a bountiful and fragrant plate of moreish hoppers, warming lentil dhal, and flaky roti.
Your friend, on the other hand, is here for the homemade dog treats. Pavilion's interiors are flooded with natural light thanks to a vast glass dome, but still, one of the breezy lakeside seats is hard to beat in the summer, especially if you’re keen to indulge your pup in a bit of duck-spotting.
Old Ford Road
Closest green space: Victoria Park
The Bull & Last, Highgate
Back in the 18th century, the last coach stop out of London, before heading north, was at an inn called the Bull —a cry of "the Bull and last" was the signal. That's the name taken by this fine restaurant and boutique inn (note: dogs are only permitted in the pub area), which attracts the hounds and humans from all over London stomping across the nearby Heath.
The casual, light-filled space makes an ideal weekend hangout, and they've got enough British ciders and craft ales on tap to make you linger. When you do, take advantage of the kitchen, where they turn out perfectly updated British classics, like homemade scotch eggs. They'll take care of your pup, too. The Bull & Last's cookbook includes a chapter of recipes dedicated to our four-legged friends.
168 Highgate Road
Closest green space: Hampstead Heath
Noble Rot, Bloomsbury
Visit Noble Rot with your dog as your date and you'll be treated to a semi-private table tucked away from the main room in its townhouse digs. But, happily, you won't miss out on the vibe of this casually hip wine bar/restaurant.
Try to work your way through the drinks list that could keep even the most discerning of wine lovers satisfied. Which makes sense: Noble Rot also produces a magazine on the topic, and published the book Wine from Another Galaxy in 2020. The food here is also sublime: seasonal British produce is cooked with aplomb. That said, Noble Rot's a prime spot for cosying up with a late-night cheese board and a glass of English bubbles.
51 Lamb's Conduit Street
Closest green space: Russell Square
Forza Wine, Peckham
With a frozen negroni in one hand, a world-class toastie (yes, they exist) in the other, and a panoramic view of Peckham and beyond — the setting could hardly get better, right? Oh, but it can. Because by your side at Forza Wine sits your hound, undoubtedly delighted to accompany you on a day out to one of London's best rooftop offerings.
A retractable glass wall offers floor-to-ceiling views in any season, and, when open, space to spill out
onto the generous outdoor dog-friendly deck. Each item on the menu of uncomplicated Italian fare pairs perfectly with its list of Italian-only wines. Come for lazy afternoons several storeys above street level; stay for delicious food and canine company.
The Rooftop, 133A Rye Lane
Closest green space: Peckham Rye Park and Common
Dog-Friendly London, Hoxton Mini Press and Four&Sons, RRP £17.95.
