National Pet Day

National Pet Day is April 11th, and there's no better way to honor our beloved furry pals than by indulging them in a day out filled with tail-wagging adventures. San Diego, with its vibrant culture and delightful weather, opens its arms to pet lovers, offering a plethora of dog-friendly spots where you can relish scrumptious food, refreshing drinks, and the company of your faithful companions.

Get ready for a celebration that's not just through the roof but through the woof at Mavericks Beach Club. After a playful romp on the beach, whisk your beloved pet straight to this vibrant watering hole, mere steps away from the shoreline, where the infectious spirit of San Diego thrives. Amidst the dynamic ambiance of five stories filled with ceaseless entertainment, the dog-friendly patio beckons, offering expansive outdoor seating, refreshing libations, and tantalizing Baja-inspired dishes. Mavericks even has a ‘Mutt Menu’ created especially for all the pups who come to dine. Options include a grilled chicken breast, all beef burger patty, and grilled mahi mahi, all served with white rice, and you can add American cheese or bacon to the side!

Experience the laid-back charm of PRK 101 in Historic Carlsbad Village, where pet-friendly adventures await the entire family. With a rooftop lounge, an atrium courtyard with fire pits, and an LED Jumbotron centerstafe for every sporting event, this multi-level complex promises a harmonious blend of leisure and outdoor excitement. Your four-legged family member is welcome to join the party! The spacious outdoor seating area beckons you both to enjoy the North County sunshine. Enjoy dishes like the Loaded BBQ Mac: picture tender pulled pork bathed in spiced BBQ sauce, harmonizing with the tangy notes of Carolina mustard, nestled amidst a blanket of shredded cheese crumbles, and garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chives.

Start your day with the delightful aroma of freshly brewed coffee and tail-wagging fun at Spill the Beans, now welcoming patrons at their latest Mission Valley location. Here, traditional morning favorites receive an innovative makeover as bagels embrace creativity and coffee transcends its mere role as a wake-up call. Step into the spacious patio, offering ample room to bask in the morning sun, and treat your beloved pup to the ultimate indulgence with a 'Pup Cup', ensuring they, too, partake in the bark-tastic moments of delight. Spill the Beans’ Mission Valley also hosts a Sweet Gigi Meet Up, the first Monday of every month from Noon - 2pm, where fans of the viral pup sensation (@sweeti_gigi) can receive a 10% discount using the code “GIGI”.

Elevate your dining escapade alongside your beloved Fido at Duck Dive in Pacific Beach, where bottomless mimosas await. Immerse yourself in the laid-back, surf-inspired ambiance just two blocks from the sun-kissed shores, ensuring that the spirit of summertime reigns eternal. Delight your palate with the irresistible Salmon Poke Bowl, featuring succulent Atlantic salmon drizzled with miso sauce, adorned with juicy mango, crisp onions, refreshing cucumber, vibrant bell pepper, a hint of spicy mayo, and finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds atop fluffy white rice—a harmonious blend of flavors and invigorating freshness that will leave you craving for more. The dog-friendly patio adds an extra layer of charm to your experience, allowing you to cherish precious moments with your furry friend while basking in the gentle warmth of the San Diego sun. 

For a unique taco experience, head to City Tacos’ OB Playground in Ocean Beach, where delicious tacos meet a playful atmosphere. Imagine a charming canopy-shaded courtyard adorned with picnic tables, inviting lounges accented by fire pits, and the allure of bar rail seating—a harmonious blend of comfort and excitement. Indulge in Scallop Dreams Taco made with pepper cream flambéed scallops topped with Mexican squash, green onions, bacon, and cotija cheese on a crispy flour tortilla while your doggie frolics in the gated dog park adjacent to the seating area. This thoughtful arrangement allows you to enjoy your meal while keeping an eye on your beloved pet. 

Immerse yourself in the laid-back Caribbean ambiance at Miss B's Coconut Club, a charming open-air restaurant nestled in Mission Beach. Just steps away from the sparkling ocean, this spot is an oasis of tiki-infused flavors and relaxation for you and your furry baby to enjoy together. Don't resist the temptation to indulge in their Jerk Jackfruit Wrap, an exquisite fusion of seasoned jerk jackfruit, fresh spring mix, tangy pineapple mango salsa, juicy tomatoes, roasted garlic aioli, and luscious mango chutney, all beautifully wrapped in a tomato tortilla. Complement this culinary delight with one of their refreshing cocktails, and reward your doggie with its favorite bites.

After strolling through the beauty of Balboa Park, lounge away with an al fresco meal at Barrio Star. Located in Bankers Hill, this vibrant eatery offers modern Mexican soul food complemented by award-winning margaritas and captivating live music. Their inviting outdoor bar welcomes both patrons and their faithful companions, providing ample space to savor vibrant Latin flavors while soaking up the sun's rays. Try their amazing Barrio Torta, made with your choice of chicken or carnitas, with guacamole, cheese, jalapeno, lettuce, tomato, and mayo, served with house-thick fries and Cholula ketchup. As you treat your taste buds, be sure to share the joy with your friend, treating them to their favorite bites from the menu.