Best Cafes, Wineries and Pubs for Mutts

Are you heading to the Yarra Valley and can’t bear to leave your fur baby behind? You’re in luck! The Yarra Valley is famous for its beautiful scenery and great wine, but it is also pet-friendly. Whether you’re a dog lover looking for a doggy cafe, a wine lover looking for pet-friendly wineries, or a pub-goer who wants to enjoy a pint with your pup by your side, the Yarra Valley has something for you and your fur baby. Find the best places where your fur baby is more than welcome!

Table of Contents

Why the Yarra Valley is Dog-Friendly

With mountain ranges and skylines as far as the eye can see, the Yarra Valley is a beautiful escape and also has many dog-friendly spots. Many of the region’s venues are pet-friendly, with outdoor restaurants and wine bars that cater to humans and canines. The open spaces, natural settings, and award-winning vineyards make it easy for dog owners to sit back and enjoy a day of wine tasting, knowing their fur baby is welcome and comfortable.
Why the Yarra Valley is Dog-Friendly
dog friendly cafes

Best Dog-Friendly Spots 

Here are some of the top dog-friendly cafes, award-winning wineries and pubs in the Yarra Valley. Each venue has its own unique atmosphere, so there’s something for everyone.

Helen’s Hill

Award-winning wines and dog-friendly. Located in the beautiful mountains, this winery has a peaceful outdoor space where you can do a wine tasting while your dog enjoys the fresh air. The outdoor seating area is set against the backdrop of the vineyards and mountains, so you can take in the scenic views while you taste. Whether you’re tasting their famous Pinot Noir or crisp Sauvignon Blanc, you can sit back and savour each sip while your dog sits by your side. Helen’s Hill is a favourite for visitors who want to combine their love of good wine with a day out in the bush.

Maddens Rise

Maddens Rise is a boutique winery that offers a personal wine experience in the beautiful Yarra Valley. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, this little winery is great for wine lovers and perfect for dog owners. The outdoor seating is ample, so there’s plenty of room to sit back and relax in the peaceful surroundings. Whether you’re sipping on a crisp Chardonnay or a bold Shiraz from their carefully selected range of wines, your dog can roam free in the open spaces or snuggle at your feet as you soak up the serenity. The laid-back, rustic vibe of Maddens Rise is the perfect escape for anyone who wants to spend the day in the countryside with their fur baby by their side.

Rob Dolan Wines

Located in Warrandyte South, this winery has an intimate and cozy setting that is perfect for a great wine tasting. This vineyard is famous for being dog friendly, and dogs are not only allowed but celebrated. With a big outdoor seating area, you and your dog can sit back and take in the views of the vineyard while you taste their range. From the Ingram Road label to their more premium wines, there’s something for everyone. The outdoor atmosphere and friendly staff mean you and your furry friend will feel right at home, so it’s a must-visit for dog owners exploring the Yarra Valley wine scene.

Payten & Jones

Payten & Jones is a modern boutique winery with a chill vibe and great boutique wines. This dog-friendly venue has outdoor seating where you can sit back and spend the day tasting wine with your dog. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for those who want to unwind with their pets while tasting unique wines made with love and care. The winery’s philosophy is to be relaxed and inclusive, so dogs are more than welcome to join in. Payten & Jones is a favourite for dog owners in the area. Whether you’re drinking their unique Shiraz or a glass of Rosé, you can sit back and enjoy the peaceful surroundings with your dog.

Payten & Jones
Wagtime Cafe

Wagtime Café

For dog owners who love a good café, Wagtime Café is a must. This dog-friendly café has an all-day menu with loads of yummy options like French toast, corn fritters and breakfast bowls. But the highlight is their dog menu, so your fur baby can have a treat, too, while you relax. The outdoor seating area is big, so there’s plenty of room for your pet to lounge while you have a casual meal or a specialty coffee. Located in the heart of town, it’s perfect for a lazy brunch or afternoon coffee. With its warm and yummy food, you and your pet will be happy.

Yering Station

Yering Station is one of the Yarra Valley’s most famous wineries, and it is luxurious and dog-friendly. The large vineyard estate that produces some of the region’s best wines is also a great place for dog owners to explore. With outdoor seating and views of the vineyards, you can sit back and enjoy an award-winning glass of wine while your dog roams or relaxes at your feet. With elegant wines, beautiful scenery, and dog-friendly facilities, Yering Station is a must-visit for wine lovers and dog lovers.

De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate

With award-winning wines and exceptional service, De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate is a must-visit. This vineyard is dog-friendly and perfect for dog owners, with big grounds and outdoor seating. While you do a wine tasting with their famous cheese platter, your dog can roam or lounge by your side. The staff are so welcoming you and your pet will feel right at home, it’s a great stop for anyone traveling with their fur babies. The views of the vineyards are stunning, it’s a must visit for wine and dog lovers.

Healesville Hotel

A historic pub in the heart of Healesville, the Healesville Hotel is warm and inviting for foodies and dog owners. The outdoor area is dog-friendly, so you can enjoy a delicious lunch made with local produce while your dog relaxes nearby. With a menu that changes seasonally with fresh ingredients, the Healesville Hotel is a popular spot for those who want to experience the best of local food in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual meal or having a drink with friends, this is the perfect spot to bring your pet.
Pooches and Pinot

Pooches and Pinot

Pooches and Pinot offers a wine tour experience like no other, designed for dog owners. This private wine tour company lets you visit the best boutique wineries in the Yarra Valley with your dog by your side. The tailored tours include stops at wineries like Dominique Portet Winery and Rochford Wines, where everything is tailored to wine lovers and their pets. Whether you’re a wine buff or just looking for a fun day out with your dog, Pooches and Pinot will make it a day to remember.

Puffing Billy Dog Express

For a real adventure, the Puffing Billy Dog Express is a pet-friendly journey through the Dandenong Ranges on a historic steam train. Dogs are welcome on board this scenic train ride, which winds its way through beautiful landscapes and historic sites. A great way to explore the area with your pet, there’s plenty of time to take in the scenic views and have a relaxing day out. Puffing Billy Dog Express is about history, nature, and a bit of adventure with your best mate.
Puffing Billy Dog Express

Innocent Bystander

In the heart of Healesville, Innocent Bystander is a casual eatery with a dog friendly vibe. The outdoor area is big and comfy so you can dine with your dog by your side. The menu has plenty of options, wood-fired pizzas, local wines and specialty coffee, it’s a local and tourist favourite. Whether you’re just popping in for a quick snack or spending the day, Innocent Bystander is a great spot to dine with your dog.

Cherry Tree Café

Cherry Tree Café is a little gem, famous for its specialty coffee and all-day menu. From French toast to freshly baked pastries, there’s something for everyone at this dog-friendly café. The outdoor area means you and your dog can dine in comfort. Whether you’re just popping in for a coffee or spending the day, Cherry Tree Café is a warm and welcoming spot for humans and their dogs.

Cherry Tree Cafe
Domaine Chandon

Domaine Chandon

World-class sparkling wines and a beautiful setting. Outdoor seating is dog-friendly, so you and your dog can enjoy the sweeping views of the Yarra Valley with a glass of bubbles. Domaine Chandon is a must visit for wine lovers and with dog friendly policy your dog can come along too.

Yarra Valley Brewery

If beer is your thing, then Yarra Valley Brewery is a laid-back dog-friendly spot to enjoy locally brewed beers. The outdoor seating area is perfect for chilling with your dog and the brewery is a popular spot for visitors. Whether you pop in for a pint or spend the afternoon trying different beers the Yarra Valley Brewery is a great place to relax with your dog.

The Garage

The Garage is a one of a kind venue that combines intimate dining with a dog friendly atmosphere. The menu has a range of hearty meals and local wines so foodies and their dogs will be happy. The outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, so it’s the perfect spot to grab lunch or a casual dinner with your furry friend. Whether you’re in for lunch or dinner The Garage is a warm and welcoming spot for you and your dog.

FAQ

Yes, Maddens Rise, Rob Dolan Wines and Domaine Chandon have outdoor seating where dogs are welcome.

Yes! Cafes like Wagtime Café and Cherry Tree Café have outdoor seating and even dog menus in some cases.

Yes Pooches and Pinot offers private wine tours for dog owners so you can visit dog friendly wineries with your dog.
Yes, The Yarra Valley Brewery and Innocent Bystander host pet-friendly events throughout the year.
Apart from visiting dog friendly venues you can visit Maroondah Reservoir Park, ride the Puffing Billy Dog Express or take a walk through the award winning vineyards with your dog.

Related articles about Yarra Valley