You don’t have to leave your mate at home when there are so many dog-friendly eateries to try in the Illawarra. Photo: Kim Treasure.
If you hate leaving your furry bestie at home but love eating out, you’re in luck.
The Illawarra is packed with cafes that welcome dogs, from beachside bowls of acai to shady courtyard hangs. Here are some of the doggone best spots to visit with your pooch.
Moore Street General
23 Moore Street, Austinmer
Moore Street General has a wonderful community vibe. It buzzes with families, kids, and dogs, creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. There’s a spacious alfresco seating area where your pup can stretch out in the sun. The food is excellent, showcasing seasonal dishes, Millers’ croissants, and great coffee.
Timbermill Cafe
2/6 Molloy Street, Bulli
Timbermill is all rustic charm and laid-back energy. With an entirely outdoor setup, there’s always plenty of space for you and your four-legged mate. Expect a solid lineup of coffee, breakfast and lunch classics, plus a little French magic thanks to the in-house pastry chef.
Park Road Garage
233 Princes Highway, Bulli
Tucked away just off Bulli’s main street, Park Road Garage feels like a secret spot. Wander through the cafe and you’ll find a leafy alfresco courtyard perfect for pooches. Breakfast, lunch, sweet treats, and great coffee are all on offer, and if you fancy a cheeky glass of wine, they’re licensed too.
Lily J Cafe
Unit 1/156 Corrimal Street, Wollongong
Serving the Illawarra since 2016, Lily J is proudly dog-friendly and built for sunny mornings. A recent renovation means there’s now a sprawling outdoor area where you can relax under the trees with a coffee and your pooch. Expect hearty, wholesome food and a welcoming, rustic vibe.
Diggies Kiosk
1 Cliff Road, North Wollongong
While Diggies’ main cafe might be a little trickier for pups, the Kiosk next door is made for them. There’s loads of outdoor seating, tables with barriers you can leash your dog to, and unbeatable ocean views. Sip your coffee, tuck into brekkie, and enjoy the salty air at North Wollongong Beach. Diggies cafe in Kiama is also a great option!
Opus Coffee Brewers
120 Keira Street, Wollongong
Opus has always worn its dog-friendly status proudly, with a steady stream of doggo pics gracing its Instagram. Park yourself in the laneway seating area with your pup and prepare for plenty of pats from fellow coffee lovers. Bonus: it’s one of the best spots in Wollongong for bagels and seriously good coffee.
Longboard Cafe
1 Marine Drive, Wollongong
Beachy, breezy and relaxed, Longboard is a solid post-swim option for you and your dog. There’s outdoor seating aplenty, plus a menu featuring dog-friendly treats alongside human favourites like breakfast burgers and fresh juices.
Passionate Palate
1 Stanthorpe Drive, Kanahooka
Tucked away in the peaceful Forest Grove estate at Kanahooka, this family-run cafe is a local favourite for breakfast, lunch and everything in between. With a beautiful pond-side setting, plenty of outdoor seating, and space for furry friends, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. You’ll find all your brekkie staples, homemade cakes, and quality coffee served with a friendly smile.
Lou’s Place
21 Addison Street, Shellharbour
Lou’s Place is a laid-back, dog-friendly cafe where you and your canine companion are always welcome. With most of the seating outdoors, it’s the pawfect spot to enjoy a coffee, breakfast or lunch in the sunshine. The menu covers fluffy pancakes, eggs your way, and all the classics, plus great coffee and even a few special treats for furry customers too.
The Hungry Monkey Kiama
5/32 Collins Street, Kiama
The Hungry Monkey has built a reputation for epic burgers, great coffee, and a warm, dog-loving vibe. Snag a spot in the outdoor seating area, order a towering stack of pancakes or a burger, and soak up the sunshine with your pup.
The Kiosk Werri Beach
Pacific Avenue, Werri Beach
Beach vibes don’t get better than this. The Kiosk Werri Beach is a casual, no-fuss spot with plenty of outdoor space for dogs and humans alike. Perfect for a coffee after a morning walk along the sand or a juice if you’re feeling the coastal energy.
Have we missed your favourite dog-friendly cafe or eatery spot? Drop us a line and let us know about it – [email protected].
