Looking for the best pet friendly hotels and restaurants in Charleston?
At The Iris, we don’t just welcome pets — we roll out the red carpet for them. Our pet-friendly policy ensures that your four-legged companions feel just as at home as you do. And the best part? We’re surrounded by Charleston’s top dog-friendly restaurants, so you and your pup can explore the city’s vibrant food scene together — no pet-sitter required.
Whether you’re in the mood for casual brunch or upscale dinner, these are the top ten places (in no particular order) to enjoy a meal with your pet by your side.
1. Brown Dog Deli (225 Calhoun St – approx. 0.8 miles from The Iris Hotel)
Brown Dog Deli is a local favorite known for its quirky decor and welcoming vibe. As the name suggests, this deli loves dogs – they even offer a special dog menu so your pooch can dine alongside you on the patio. Humans aren’t left out, of course. The menu features delicious sandwiches and salads with standout options like the fried green tomato & pimento cheese BLT and the “Pig ‘N Fig” BBQ sandwich.
The atmosphere is casual and fun, making it a great spot for lunch after a stroll. With dog-friendly outdoor seating, friendly staff, and even water bowls for pups, Brown Dog Deli guarantees a tail-wagging good time for both you and your pet.
Pet-Friendly Perks: Dog menu available (treats for Fido!), plenty of outdoor tables, and staff happy to provide water.
Standout Menu Items: Gourmet sandwiches (try the BLT with fried green tomato) and creative daily specials. Vegetarian options and hearty salads are on offer too.
Vibe: Laid-back and eclectic. It’s a casual deli where tourists and locals mingle – you’ll often see a bowl of water set out for canine visitors while their owners enjoy lunch.
2. Poogan’s Porch (72 Queen St – approx. 1.3 miles from The Iris Hotel)
Poogan’s Porch is an iconic Charleston restaurant named after a friendly neighborhood dog, Poogan, who used to greet guests here. Housed in a charming Victorian home, this historic spot has a front porch perfect for dining with your dog – and yes, dogs are absolutely welcome in the outdoor seating areas.
Pet owners love the Southern hospitality: servers will often bring your pup a bowl of water while you peruse the menu.
Speaking of the menu, Poogan’s is famous for its Southern comfort cuisine. Weekend brunch is legendary – expect dishes like chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and crab cake eggs Benedict that have people lining up on the weekends.
Pet-Friendly Perks: Ample porch seating where dogs can relax by your table (weather permitting). Don’t forget to snap a photo with your pup on the porch – it’s a bit of a tradition here. (They even sell souvenir dog bowls as a memento!)
Standout Menu Items: Brunch favorites like chicken & waffles and shrimp & grits are must-tries. For dinner, the buttermilk fried chicken and she-crab soup are local favorites.
Vibe: Southern charm and upscale comfort. Despite the refined cuisine, Poogan’s is welcoming and dog-friendly, carrying on the legacy of its namesake pup in true Charleston fashion.
3. FUEL Charleston (211 Rutledge Ave – approx. 0.3 miles from The Iris Hotel)
A short 5-minute walk from The Iris, FUEL is a casual “island-inspired” cantina set in a converted 1950s gas station. Its expansive outdoor patio is the main draw – dogs are welcome to join owners on the patio while you eat.
In fact, FUEL’s patio is often buzzing with both locals and their pups enjoying the sunshine. The menu is pub-meets-Caribbean, offering up big portions of comfort food with a twist. Fish tacos are a top pick here, and you can also chow down on juicy burgers, wings, and salads.
Thirsty? Try their signature Dark & Stormy cocktail for a tropical vibe.
Pet-Friendly Perks: A spacious patio with plenty of umbrella-shaded tables – perfect for keeping Fido cool on hot days. Staff are happy to bring out water bowls upon request, ensuring your dog stays hydrated while you hang out.
Standout Menu Items: The fish tacos get rave reviews, and the Caribbean jerk chicken sandwich and plantain nachos are other favorites that pair great with their cocktails or a local beer.
Vibe: Laid-back and lively. FUEL has a fun retro vibe (spot the old filling station details) and can get energetic during trivia nights. It’s a go-to neighbourhood hangout where both two-legged and four-legged patrons feel at home.
4. Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oysters (698 King St – approx. 0.4 miles from The Iris Hotel)
Leon’s Oyster Shop (often just called Leon’s) is an Upper King Street hotspot known for its fried chicken and oysters – and it happily welcomes dogs on its covered outdoor patio.
Walk about 8 minutes from The Iris and you’ll find this renovated old garage buzzing with activity. Dogs are welcome at the pet-friendly outdoor tables, where there’s shade and often a cool breeze.
Leon’s menu is a seafood and Southern lover’s dream. Highlights include the char-grilled oysters, fried Brussels sprouts, and their famous fried chicken. You can also snack on peel-and-eat shrimp or hushpuppies while sipping a craft cocktail. It’s an ideal spot for a pet-friendly happy hour or casual dinner.
Pet-Friendly Perks: Covered patio seating means even on a hot or drizzly day, you and your pup can relax comfortably. The staff is attentive and will usually offer a water bowl for your dog. The lively outdoor scene here means your dog might even make a new friend or two (Leon’s is a popular stop for dog owners).
Standout Menu Items: Chargrilled oysters and fried chicken steal the show. Also notable are the fresh seafood specials, crispy fried fish, and seasonal salads. Don’t leave without trying the soft-serve ice cream for dessert – a Leon’s signature treat for humans (sorry pups, chocolate isn’t for doggies!).
Vibe: Trendy yet unpretentious. Leon’s has a bustling, social atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can dress down, enjoy high-quality food, and feel comfortable having your dog at your feet as you crack into a tray of oysters on a sunny afternoon.
5. Melfi’s (721 King St – approx. 0.5 miles from The Iris Hotel)
Craving Italian? Melfi’s is an upscale-casual Italian bistro on Upper King Street – just about a 10-minute walk from The Iris – and it features a dog-friendly outdoor patio cooled by fans. This chic spot is known for its wood-fired Roman pizzas and handmade pastas.
Your well-behaved dog is welcome on the patio, so you can enjoy a date-night dinner or leisurely lunch without leaving your pup behind. The menu offers classics with a gourmet twist: think tuna crudo, a rich bucatini cacio e pepe, and their popular “Porky Boy” pizza loaded with house-made sausage.
Pet-Friendly Perks: A covered patio with fans to keep you and your dog cool in Charleston’s warm weather. Because Melfi’s is a bit more upscale, the patio is a calmer setting – great if your dog is content to lie by your chair while you dine. Water is available on request for pups.
Standout Menu Items: Melfi’s is known for thin-crust wood-fired pizzas (try the Porky Boy or the white clam pie). Pasta lovers rave about the cacio e pepe and lasagna, and starters like the tuna crudo are refreshing and bright. Save room for classic tiramisu to finish the meal.
Vibe: Retro supper-club meets modern trattoria. Inside you’ll find leather banquettes and vintage decor; outside on the patio, it’s airy and relaxed. Melfi’s strikes a nice balance – it feels like a special night out but remains welcoming to pets and their owners in the outdoor area.
6. Little Jack’s Tavern (710 King St – approx. 0.4 miles from The Iris Hotel)
Little Jack’s Tavern is a charming neighborhood restaurant famous for its award-winning burger and old-school tavern atmosphere. Better yet, it’s pet-friendly – owners are welcome to sit with their dogs at the outdoor tables while enjoying lunch or dinner.
Located about 8 minutes from The Iris by foot, Little Jack’s transports you to a retro era with checkered floors and vintage boxing photos inside, and a cozy sidewalk patio outside. Customer favorites range from hearty salads (the Farro Spoon Salad is a surprise hit) to the indulgent Tavern Burger, often hailed as one of the best in Charleston.
You can pair your meal with a classic cocktail or a cold beer from their full bar.
Pet-Friendly Perks: Sidewalk patio seating is available (limited tables), so it’s wise to go at off-peak times if you have a dog in tow. The staff is very friendly and will bring a water bowl for your pup. The quiet side-street setting means your dog can relax without too much foot traffic around.
Standout Menu Items: The Tavern Burger is a must-try – juicy, with a special sauce and melted American cheese, it’s a nostalgic delight. Other popular picks include the Surf & Turf sandwich and steak frites, as well as rotating specials like prime rib night. Don’t skip the truffle fries; your dog might beg for a nibble!
Vibe: Classic American tavern with a touch of nostalgia. It’s casual yet polished – think dim lighting and friendly chatter inside, with a laid-back outdoor seating area perfect for people-watching on Upper King. Little Jack’s is as comfortable for a quick burger with your dog by your side as it is for a longer, sit-down supper.
7. Juanita Greenberg’s Nacho Royale (439 King St – approx. 0.5 miles from The Iris Hotel)
For a fun, Tex-Mex fix, head to Juanita Greenberg’s Nacho Royale – an easy 10-minute walk from The Iris Hotel. This funky cantina is extremely dog-friendly, making it a popular stop for pet owners exploring Upper King Street. There’s a covered outdoor seating area where you and your pup can kick back with a bowl of chips & salsa.
The menu is all about “Mexican-ish” comfort food: giant one-pound burritos, cheesy quesadillas, loaded nachos (they even have a tasty tofu nacho option!), and of course, tacos. Many people come for the margaritas – Juanita’s has a reputation for serving some of the best in town, from classic top-shelf margaritas to fruity, pineapple-infused creations.
Pet-Friendly Perks: A covered patio means shade for your dog and year-round outdoor seating for you. The atmosphere is lively but casual, and it’s not uncommon to see multiple dogs lounging near their owners’ tables. Staff will happily provide water for your pup.
Standout Menu Items: Nachos, nachos, nachos! They’re famous for them – try the Ultimate Nachos with your choice of protein or the vegetarian “tofu nachos”. The Gigante Burrito lives up to its name and can likely feed two. Wash it down with a Cadillac margarita or an ice-cold cerveza for the full experience.
Vibe: Colorful, quirky, and upbeat. Juanita Greenberg’s feels like a fiesta. There’s often music playing, TVs with the game on, and a friendly crowd. It’s the perfect casual spot to unwind with your dog after a day of shopping on King Street – no one will bat an eye if Fido is snoozing under your chair while you enjoy your tacos and margaritas.
8. Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer (4 Vanderhorst St – approx. 0.6 miles from The Iris Hotel)
Coffee lovers with pups in tow will adore Kudu, a beloved coffee shop and beer bar tucked just off King Street (about a 12-minute walk from The Iris). Kudu features a large, enclosed courtyard patio that is extremely pet-friendly – in fact, this café is a go-to hangout for many local dog owners.
You’ll often find a mix of people working on laptops, friends chatting over lattes, and a few dogs happily sprawled in the shade. The menu at Kudu offers high-quality espresso drinks, pour-overs, and local craft beers on tap. They also carry fresh pastries and light bites from local bakeries.
It’s the ideal spot for a morning coffee, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even a low-key evening beer.
Pet-Friendly Perks: Spacious outdoor courtyard with plenty of seating where dogs are welcome to lounge. The courtyard is walled and set back from the street, so it feels safe and contained – great for dogs who might be skittish of traffic. Kudu’s staff loves animals; water bowls are usually available and they might even offer the occasional dog treat. It’s no wonder Charleston Guru named Kudu their “pick for coffee” among dog-friendly patios.
Standout Menu Items: For humans, the latte made with locally roasted beans is a must-try, or grab a nitro cold brew on a hot day. They have a rotating list of craft beers – check the chalkboard for what’s on tap. While Kudu doesn’t have a full kitchen, you can snag a fresh croissant or muffin to go with your drink, and there are often food trucks parked nearby if you’re craving more.
Vibe: Relaxed and artsy. Kudu has a courtyard fountain that adds a serene background sound, and string lights that give it charm in the evenings. It’s a no-frills café focused on quality. You’ll see students, professionals, and tourists all enjoying the laid-back atmosphere – many accompanied by their dogs, making it feel like a community living room where everyone, canine or human, is welcome.
9. Xiao Bao Biscuit (224 Rutledge Ave – approx. 0.4 miles from The Iris Hotel)
Xiao Bao Biscuit is a hip Asian-fusion eatery located in a former gas station in the Cannonborough neighborhood – just about a 5–7 minute walk west of The Iris.
Known for its creative dishes (the okonomiyaki Japanese cabbage pancake is a fan favorite), Xiao Bao offers a distinctly different flavor profile from the Southern fare Charleston is known for. Even better, Fido is welcome to join you at one of their pet-friendly outdoor tables in the gravel patio area out front.
Many diners bring their dogs while they feast on spicy Sichuan noodles or Thai curries, and the casual outdoor setup makes it comfortable to do so. Picnic tables and sun umbrellas create a communal feel.
Pet-Friendly Perks: Outdoor picnic-style seating that is dog-friendly by design. Because it’s a converted gas station, the restaurant’s outdoor area is spacious and open-air. Staff are accustomed to having dogs around and will bring out a water bowl upon request. The vibe is super casual, so nobody minds if your dog stretches out in the sun or greets a neighboring table.
Standout Menu Items: The menu changes with the seasons and according to what “kick-ass grandmother” recipes they’re inspired by (as the restaurant cheekily says). Consistent winners include the Okonomiyaki (savory cabbage pancake drizzled with sauce), Mapo Tofu (rich, spicy and deeply flavorful), and the daily curry or noodle dish. Portions are great for sharing – perfect if you want to try a few items. Spice levels can be high, so have a cool drink handy (they’ve got awesome iced teas and sake cocktails).
Vibe: Eclectic and trendy. You’ll likely find a mix of foodies and in-the-know locals here. Despite its trendy status, Xiao Bao remains unpretentious. The indoor space is small, so most people opt for the patio, creating a friendly, communal atmosphere. Dogs fit right in among the laid-back crowd. It’s an excellent choice when you want something offbeat and delicious, and you don’t want to leave your pup behind.
10. 39 Rue de Jean (39 John St – approx. 0.6 miles from The Iris Hotel)
Rounding out our list is 39 Rue de Jean – a French café and bistro that brings a taste of Paris to downtown Charleston.
Situated near Marion Square (about a 12-minute walk from The Iris), this restaurant offers dog-friendly sidewalk patio seating in front of its elegant brick facade. The atmosphere is refined yet inviting, with hanging flower baskets and bistro tables that make you feel like you’ve been transported to a sidewalk café in France.
Pets are warmly welcomed on the patio; the attentive waitstaff will even bring your furry companion a water bowl so they can relax in style. Rue de Jean’s menu features classic French dishes alongside Lowcountry favorites.
You can start with escargots or a steaming bowl of French onion soup topped with cheesy crouton (a crowd-pleaser here), then move on to steak frites or coq au vin.
Pet-Friendly Perks: Sidewalk patio with Parisian ambiance where your dog can people-watch as you dine. The staff’s hospitality extends to four-legged guests – expect prompt water service for your pup. Because this spot is adjacent to a hotel (and just around the corner from The Dewberry hotel), they’re quite used to travelers with pets and strive to make everyone comfortable. Keep in mind the patio is right on the sidewalk; well-behaved dogs on short leashes are best here so they don’t disturb passersby.
Standout Menu Items: You can’t go wrong with the French classics: Croque Madame, mussels in white wine, and the steak frites are all outstanding. Locals also love the sushi rolls here (surprise – they do have sushi, and it’s very good) and the weekend brunch. Whatever you order, save a bit of the crusty bread for your pup – it’ll keep them occupied while you indulge in crème brûlée for dessert.
Vibe: Sophisticated yet relaxed. Rue de Jean manages to be both a nice night-out destination and a casual lunch spot. The interior is bustling with a French brasserie feel, while the outdoor seating is more peaceful. It’s an excellent pick for when you want a slightly more upscale dining experience and a pet-friendly setting. You’ll enjoy white-tablecloth service on the patio, with your dog happily lounging at your feet – très bon!
Last Thoughts
Charleston’s dining scene truly has something for everyone – including our furry friends. From casual cafes to refined restaurants, these ten spots prove you don’t have to sacrifice quality or ambiance when searching for pet-friendly options.
Each offers a unique flavor of the Holy City and a warm welcome to dogs and their humans alike. So next time you’re staying at The Iris Hotel and hunger strikes, leash up your pup and explore these pet-friendly restaurants in Charleston.
You’ll get to savor delicious Lowcountry and international cuisine, enjoy some of the best outdoor dining in Charleston, and make unforgettable memories with your four-legged companion by your side.
Bon appétit – and bone appétit! 🐾