Feasting with Fido
Discover five local restaurants that allow four- legged diners
Most people consider their pets to be part of their family ( albeit a very furry family member) and love to spend time with them. While living in Southwest Florida, I’ve seen dogs shopping, driving, and even fishing with their owners. Now you’re even able to eat with your pets. Interested? Here are some locations that allow your four- legged friend to join you for a meal.
Located in an “Old Florida” home that’s been renovated into a restaurant, Cristof’s on McGregor features local ingredients and flavors combined into dishes that are deceiving in their simplicity. Cristof’s allows pets on its front brick patio, which thankfully has plenty of large umbrellas for shade and water bowls for dogs as well.
My mother, brother, golden retriever Loomis, and I headed to Cristof’s recently for some afternoon appetizers. Chef Trevor Simon said that the restaurant sees dogs with their owners at least once a day, and it’s happy to provide water for canine customers. But if owners want their pets to chow down as well, they’ll need to bring their own doggie food or treats. Or you could go my family’s route and appease ( read: “give into”) those puppy eyes under the table with some bread.
If you’re looking for a more casual yet still urban atmosphere, a ten- minute drive to downtown Fort Myers will bring you to Ford’s Garage. Located on First Street, the restaurant has the vibe of a 1920s service station, with “grease rags” for napkins and an antique Ford suspended above the bar.
Speaking of bars, Ford’s boasts an amazing collection of craft beers ( more than 180 bottled and twenty drafts), along with a full range of cocktails both traditional and unique. You can enjoy your