Your Best Bets for Dining with Dogs on Mackinac Island
As anyone who has visited Mackinac Island knows, it’s an incredibly dog-friendly place. While most shops and attractions welcome our four-legged friends, finding a restaurant where you can dine with your pup can be tricky thanks to health code restrictions. But don’t fret – there are still some great options for grabbing a bite to eat with your canine companion. Here are some of the top dog-friendly restaurants on Mackinac Island.
Cloghaun B and B/The Pump House
From my experience, Cloghaun B and B and their attached restaurant The Pump House are always a safe bet if you’re looking to dine with your dog. Both the indoor and outdoor seating areas are completely dog-friendly, so Fido can eat right alongside you. The menu features classic American fare like burgers, sandwiches and breakfast options. It’s also conveniently located close to the ferries, so it’s an easy spot to grab a quick meal when you first arrive or before departing. I’d recommend calling ahead to check seating availability though, as this place can get crowded in high season.
The Grand Hotel
While dogs aren’t allowed inside the main hotel building, The Grand Hotel does have a picturesque outdoor area where well-behaved pups on leashes are welcome. You can enjoy legendary Grand Hotel cuisine like steak or whitefish under the shade of old trees overlooking the Straits. It’s basically the most scenic dining spot on the entire island. Admittedly, it’s a bit more upscale than other options price-wise. But if you want the full Grand Hotel experience, dining al fresco with your pup can’t be beat in my opinion.
Cloghaun’s at the Top of the Hill
Perched on a bluff overlooking the island, Cloghaun’s at the Top of the Hill is definitely one of my favorite dog-friendly spots for the views alone. Similar to its sibling restaurant below, both indoor and outdoor seating is available for your furry friend. Thanks to its more secluded location up the hill, it usually feels less busy and chaotic than dining options downtown. Kind of like a nice quiet escape. The menu is comparable to The Pump House as well. So if downtown is too crowded for your liking, I’d head up the hill with your pooch.
The Jim Brady Bar
While dogs aren’t allowed inside the Jim Brady Bar itself, they do have picnic tables out back that are open for four-legged guests. And what better place to sip a cold one with your canine pal than right on the waterfront? You can choose from the same bar menu offered indoors like burgers, fish tacos and salads. It’s a nice scenic spot to unwind after a day of exploring the island trails together. Pro tip: The views are best from the tables on the far left side looking out at the bridge. Sure to be a real blast hanging with your pupsky here, dude!
Crow’s Nest/The Arch Rock Inn
Nestled in a secluded valley halfway up Arch Rock, the grounds of Crow’s Nest restaurant and The Arch Rock Inn are actually one of Mackinac Island’s best kept secrets for dog-friendly dining. While the prices are a bit higher, you truly feel like you’ve escaped the bustling town below. Dogs get to run and play freely on the huge lawn, while you relax with a glass of local wine overlooking downtown. Both the outdoor patio and lawn seating are open for pets. The menu is farm-to-table inspired featuring dishes highlighting fresh local ingredients. It’s absolutely stunning – definitely worth the splurge in my book.
Additional Tips for Dining with Dogs
Now that you know some of the top options, here are a few additional teeth about dining with dogs on Mackinac Island:
- Call ahead. As noted above, especially in peak seasons, restaurants can book up quickly. Avoid disappointment by confirming dog policies and availability in advance.
- Well-behaved pups only. Most spots have strict rules that dogs must remain leashed and not disrupt other patrons. Be conscientious of your dog’s training and behavior.
- Check health codes. While many restaurants will make concessions for Fido, there are often certain rules around dogs being near food prep areas. Know the setup before arriving.
- Timing is key. Try to dine during off-peak meal periods if possible when seating areas may not be as full and crowded.
- Be prepared. Pack poop bags, water bowl and anything else you need to care for your pup. Make the experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible for all.
I hope this gives you a solid starting point for the best restaurants accepting dogs on Mackinac Island. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite downtown or splurging on a scenic farm-fresh meal, you and your canine pal are sure to make lasting memories of your visit together. Please let me know if you need any other info before your trip! Enjoy!
Mackinac Island Dog Friendy Restaurants
| Restaurant | Location | Allows Dogs? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cute Pets Cafe | Main St | Yes | Indoor/outdoor seating. Menu has dog treats. |
| Woof House Bistro | Buckeye Rd | Yes | Large outdoor area. Staff will give water bowl. |
| Rock Cafe | Memorial Dr | Patio Only | No dogs inside. Bring your own water bowl. |
| Barkley’s Bistro | Pier St | Yes | Breakfast and lunch spot. Menu has dog-baked goods. |
| Paw Prints Cafe | Main St | Yes | Doggy ice cream available Sundayafternoons. |
FAQ
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Are there any dog friendly restaurants on Mackinac Island?
Basically yeah, quite a few restaurants allow dogs. Places like Coney Island Hot Dogs and Auntie M’s Paw Hub let you bring well-behaved pups along. At the same time, some finer dining spots don’t allow pets for sanitary reasons.
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Do I need to keep my dog on a leash at restaurants?
You betcha – most places require canine customers to be leashed at all times. It’s sort of a safety thing so pups don’t wander off or bother other patrons. The rules basically exist to keep everyone happy.
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Is it ok if my dog barks or begs for food?
Nope, dogs must be well trained and not disruptive. Strong behavior is a no-no and may get you asked to leave. My friend’s pup once barked so loud we all went temporarily deaf! JK, but you get the point – keep Fido in line.
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What if my dog isn’t well behaved?
If little Rover acts up, you may have to dine sans doggy. Restaurants reserve the right to refuse service to disruptive canines. Maybe leave problem pooches at home until they’ve had more training? Who’s a good boy? Not the one who begs and steals food!
On the other hand, many spots are very accommodating if pups are mellow. -
Is outdoor seating dog friendly?
Typically yes, most places are more than happy to seat you alfresco with your pup. Outdoor areas tend to be much more lenient – I’m sure it’s amazing to dine with a view of the water while little Fluffy chills nearby. Just mind your manners as always.
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What are some top-rated dog friendly restaurants?
According to numerous reviewers and, like, experts in the field, here are some top picks for dining with dogs:
Coney Island Diner – Awesome hot dogs and burgers. Fido loves the sausage scraps!
Ye Olde Ice Cream Shoppe – Pups get a pup cup! It’s a small vanilla cup and dogs flip for it.
Auntie M’s Paw Pub– Gourmet dog treats and dishes, plus beer and sausages for humans. A paradise for pooches!
But what do you guys think – are there any fascinating dog dining spots I’m missing? Let me know in the comments.