For this blog, we’ve got an extra special guest. Meet Lucky The Lab: Riverside resident, unofficial BIA dog ambassador, and your tour guide for today.
Toronto’s Riverside neighbourhood has many businesses that happily welcome your four-legged friends. So, who let the dogs out–or in this case, who lets the dogs in?
Follow along as Lucky takes you around Riverside and some of its dog-friendly places:
Yes, gratuity in the form of treats is very much appreciated!
Dirty Pawz Dog Wash (@dirtypawzto)
Address: 804 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H7
Treat your doggo to dog-friendly gelato after a wash. Dirty Pawz now carries Coppa, a proudly Canadian gelato and sorbet company. You’ll find a freezer stocked with pints of Coppa right beside the vending machine.
Oma Chiropractic and Wellness (@omachiropractic)
Address: 1 Munro St, Toronto, ON M4M 2B7
Did you know that Oma offers chiropractic care for animals as well? This can help address issues such as arthritis, stiffness, and post-surgery soreness. You can find more information or book an appointment over on their website.
The Broadview Hotel (@broadviewhotel)
Address:106 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4M 2G1
Hello, room service? Spoil your dog with a staycation in this chic hotel steeped in history. Although they’re not permitted in the restaurants, dogs are allowed in the rooms. Take advantage of their summer promos and book your stay here.
DOG-FRIENDLY PATIOS
ēst Restaurant (@estrestaurant)
Address: 729 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H
During the warmer months, ēst does a special Paws & Patio menu, which includes a bone marrow appetizer and a beef tartare entree. They only do this while the patio is open, so take advantage of what’s left of the summer and make a reservation soon!
Jimmy’s Coffee (@jimmyscoffee)
Address: 806 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H7
One of Riverside’s hidden gems, the charmingly quaint patio at the back of this beloved coffee shop provides a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Queen East. Bring your dog here for a quick break and try one of Jimmy’s summer offerings.
Queen Garden Cafe (@queengardencafe)
Address: 771 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H5
Tucked away in a little glass greenhouse in the middle of Queen Garden Centre is the Queen Garden Cafe. Stop by for a refreshment and a pastry. Your dog will appreciate the lush surroundings of the patio. There’s plenty of plants to sniff, too.
Dark Horse Espresso Bar (@darkhorsecafe)
Address: 630 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1G3
As you make your way to the counter, you’ll find their *Bark* Horse (you know we love clever wordplay!) pumpkin & peanut butter-flavoured dog treats. Get a drink for yourself and a bag of treats for your dog, and enjoy it on the patio.
Photo credit: Duke’s Refresher
Duke’s Refresher (@dukesriverside)
Address: 709 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H1
Dogs are welcome at Duke’s Refresher’s 2nd floor outdoor patio with a minor caveat: only dogs under 35 pounds are allowed and they can only accommodate a few dogs on the patio at a time. Lucky may not have been able to enjoy the patio, but his smaller friends certainly can! Fancy a weekend brunch reservation?
Boxcar Social (@boxcar_social)
Address: 4 Boulton Ave, Toronto, ON M4M 2J3
This cafe and bottle shop is popular among locals and visitors alike for its selection of beverages, light pastries, and sleek ambiance. On the front patio, treat yourself to an iced latte or a glass of wine while your dog takes a break from the summer heat.
The Opera House Grill & Patio (@operahouseto)
Address: 737 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H1
Just beside the iconic Toronto concert venue is The Opera House Grill & Patio, where you and your furry companion can unwind and grab a bite to eat. The grill’s Shaggy Burger, which was once recognized by Toronto Life as one of the top 25 burgers in Toronto, is a must-try!
Speaking of patios, we have an online patio map as part of Queen East Eats, highlighting 50+ outdoor patios within Riverside and Leslieville where you can dine with your dog.
We’ve also got a paw-some announcement to make: the 2024 Riverside Dog Lovers’ Market is happening next month!
Cool vendors, exciting activities, delicious treats, and more await you and your furry best friend on Sunday, September 15th, 10am-4pm at Riverside Common Park and Joel Weeks Park.
More details will be shared in the weeks to come. In the meantime, follow us on Instagram for updates and make sure to visit the Riverside Blog for new content every week!
Photos by Riverside BIA
ABOUT LUCKY
Lucky is an eight-year-old black Labrador. He’s active, super friendly, and always in a good mood. His favorite treat? Anything, he’s not picky. Don’t be fooled by his size, he remains a puppy at heart. He also understands both English and French. Très bon, Lucky.