Dog Friendly Restaurants in Bar Harbor
Introduction to Bar Harbor
If you’re searching for the best dog friendly restaurants in Bar Harbor, you’re in luck. This guide is designed specifically for dog owners visiting Bar Harbor who want to enjoy the town’s vibrant dining scene without leaving their furry companions behind. Bar Harbor is a popular destination for travelers with pets, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, scenic beauty, and abundance of outdoor activities. As more people travel with their dogs, knowing where you can dine together is essential for a stress-free and enjoyable trip.
A dog friendly restaurant in Bar Harbor is an establishment that welcomes dogs at their outdoor seating areas, often providing water bowls and sometimes treats or a dog menu. These restaurants understand the needs of pet owners and strive to create a comfortable environment for both humans and their canine companions.
Bar Harbor offers several dog-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating. Many provide water bowls for dogs at outdoor tables, and it’s best to check resources like BringFido or call ahead for the latest pet policies. Always keep your dog on a leash and under control, and be mindful of other diners to help maintain Bar Harbor’s reputation as a pet-friendly destination.
Key Takeaways
One afternoon I watched a dachshund commandeer an entire patio table while its humans sipped iced coffee – total mayhem, but in the best way, and the server actually brought a bowl before we even asked.
Harbor-front patios are the real draw for dog folks – great views, breezy vibes, and staff who usually get the pet thing. Patio seats fill fast. Want the sweet spot? Call ahead or show up early.
I once ordered a burger and my dog got a tiny grilled chicken bite from the chef – he strutted off like he’d won the lottery.
Lots of places offer water bowls, treats, or even a mini dog menu, so your pup doesn’t have to beg. Some spots even have dedicated pet-friendly items. Don’t hesitate to politely request amenities or accommodations for your pet, like a water bowl or a spot on the patio—just ask what they have.
On a rainy morning we learned the hard way that not every restaurant lets dogs inside, even if they’re okay outside – lesson learned, we towel-dried and moved on.
Check policies before you go: leash rules, indoor vs patio access, and busy-season hours change things fast. For the most up-to-date hours and pet policies, it’s advisable to check restaurant websites or call ahead. Always scan menus and signs, and bring a towel or mat just in case.
Dog Friendly Restaurants
Bar Harbor is known for its welcoming attitude toward dogs, and many restaurants offer inviting outdoor spaces where dogs are genuinely welcomed. Outdoor seating is common, and amenities like water bowls are often provided for your pup. Checking resources like BringFido or calling ahead is recommended for the most up-to-date pet policies, as hours and rules can change seasonally. Remember to bring your own water bowl just in case, keep your dog leashed and under control, and choose a quiet spot where your dog can settle in comfortably. A little mindfulness goes a long way in keeping Bar Harbor’s dining scene as pet-friendly as it is today.
Below is a comprehensive, fact-based table summarizing all verified dog-friendly restaurants in Bar Harbor, including their outdoor seating policies, notable amenities, and unique features:
| Restaurant Name | Outdoor Seating | Water Bowls | Dog Menu/Treats | Unique Features / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Side Street Cafe | Yes (deck) | Yes | Sometimes | Award-winning lobster rolls, hearty comfort food, relaxed patio atmosphere |
| Thirsty Whale Tavern | Yes (patio) | Yes | No | Pub food, lobster rolls, harbor area location |
| Peekytoe Provisions | Yes | Yes | No | Sandwiches, seafood, quick meals, ideal for walkers |
| Blaze | Yes (enclosed) | Yes | No | Pizza, creative New American dishes, mostly enclosed back patio |
| 2 Cats Bar Harbor | Yes (expansive, shaded) | Yes | No | Homemade breakfast fare, pet-friendly patio shaded by trees |
| McKay’s Public House | Yes (fenced-in) | Yes | No | Locally sourced ingredients, fenced-in outdoor area |
| Beerworks | Yes (spacious) | Yes | No | Variety of dishes, spacious outdoor patio |
| Paddy’s Irish Pub & Restaurant | Yes (with heaters) | Yes | No | Irish-American cuisine, heated pet-friendly patio |
| Stewman’s Lobster Pound | Yes (outdoor, picnic tables) | Yes | No | Waterfront, classic Maine lobster, casual maritime atmosphere, open seasonally |
| Travelin Lobster | Yes (outdoor) | Yes | No | Fresh Maine lobster, walk-up window, open seasonally |
| Chart Room | Yes (waterfront deck) | Yes | No | Waterfront patio, seafood favorites, scenic harbor views |
| Mainely Meat BBQ | Yes (outdoor) | Yes | Yes | Dog menu, BBQ specialties |
| Looking Glass Restaurant | Yes (deck) | Yes | No | Casually upscale, harbor views, leashed dogs welcome |
| C-Ray Lobster | Yes (outdoor) | Yes | No | Seasonal lobster shack, picnic tables |
| Geddy’s | Yes (outdoor) | Yes | No | Popular seafood, near Agamont Park, scenic views |
Many lobster pounds in Bar Harbor offer picnic tables and welcome dogs, providing a relaxed, al fresco dining experience for guests and their furry companions.
Side Street Cafe
Allows dogs on the outdoor patio. Popular for casual dining, seafood, burgers, and a relaxed atmosphere close to downtown. The dog-friendly deck is also known for award-winning lobster rolls, making it a favorite for guests and their pets.
Thirsty Whale Tavern
Dog friendly patio seating available. Known for pub food, lobster rolls, and harbor area location.
Peekytoe Provisions
Outdoor seating welcomes dogs. Offers sandwiches, seafood, and quick meals ideal for visitors walking the town with pets.
Blaze
Welcomes guests and their dogs on a mostly enclosed back patio, serving pizza and creative New American dishes. Open daily.
2 Cats Bar Harbor
Features an expansive, pet-friendly patio shaded by trees and serves homemade breakfast fare. Open daily.
McKay’s Public House
Offers a fenced-in outdoor seating area that is pet-friendly and emphasizes locally sourced ingredients. Open daily.
Beerworks
Allows dogs on their spacious outdoor patio and serves a variety of dishes. Open daily.
Paddy’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
Features a pet-friendly outdoor patio with heaters, making it comfortable for guests and their pets. Open daily.
Stewman’s Lobster Pound
A popular, waterfront, pet-friendly Maine seafood restaurant specializing in lobster. It offers outdoor seating with picnic tables and a casual maritime atmosphere for guests and their dogs. Stewman’s is open seasonally.
Travelin Lobster
A pet-friendly seafood restaurant with outdoor seating and a focus on fresh Maine lobster, welcoming guests and their dogs. Open seasonally.
Chart Room
Offers a dog-friendly waterfront patio deck, perfect for guests seeking fresh seafood dishes with scenic views.
Mainely Meat BBQ
Allows dogs at outdoor tables and offers a dog menu.
Looking Glass Restaurant
Provides casually upscale dining and welcomes leashed dogs on their deck.
C-Ray Lobster
A seasonal lobster shack with outdoor seating where dogs are welcome.
Geddy’s
A popular seafood restaurant in Bar Harbor that welcomes dogs at outdoor tables.
Now that you know where to dine, let’s explore some of the most popular menu items for you and your pup.
Popular Menu Items
Side Street Cafe Menu
- Lobster mac and cheese
- Crab cake sandwich
- Fish and chips
- Side Street burger
- Seafood chowder
Thirsty Whale Tavern Menu
- Maine lobster roll
- New England clam chowder
- Fried haddock sandwich
- Fish tacos
- Pub style wings
Peekytoe Provisions Menu
- Lobster roll
- Crab roll
- Shrimp roll
- Chowder and bisque
- House made lemonade
Waterfront Dining
To help you quickly compare which restaurants offer waterfront views, outdoor seating, and dog-friendly policies, see the table below:
| Restaurant Name | Waterfront Views | Outdoor Seating | Dog Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Street Cafe | No | Yes | Yes |
| Thirsty Whale Tavern | No | Yes | Yes |
| Peekytoe Provisions | No | Yes | Yes |
| Stewman’s Lobster Pound | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Chart Room | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| The Terrace Grille | Yes | Yes | Confirm |
| Geddy’s | Near water | Yes | Confirm |
- Side Street Cafe has outdoor seating but is not located directly on the water. It sits in downtown Bar Harbor with a casual patio atmosphere that is comfortable for pet owners.
- Thirsty Whale Tavern offers outdoor and garden style seating, but there are no direct harbor or ocean views from the dining area.
- Peekytoe Provisions is located in the downtown district and provides outdoor seating, but it does not offer waterfront tables or visible shoreline views.
- For true waterfront dining where you and your pet can enjoy harbor scenery, consider spots such as The Terrace Grille at the Bar Harbor Inn, Geddy’s near Agamont Park, Stewman’s Lobster Pound, and The Chart Room. Always confirm patio rules and seasonal seating policies directly with the restaurant before visiting.
Next, let’s take a look at what makes Maine cuisine so special and what you can expect to find on local menus.
Maine Cuisine
Maine cuisine is known for its fresh coastal flavors, simple preparation, and ingredients sourced directly from the Atlantic and local farms. Visitors to Bar Harbor can enjoy classic dishes such as lobster rolls served warm with butter or cold with mayo, rich New England clam chowder, and freshly caught haddock or cod. Many restaurants highlight seasonal menus that reflect what is available locally, including mussels, scallops, and steamed lobster. Some Bar Harbor restaurants use a wood-fired oven to prepare specialty pizzas or regional seafood dishes, enhancing the flavor and authenticity of Maine cuisine. Blueberries are another staple of Maine cuisine and are commonly featured in pies, muffins, and desserts. The region also emphasizes farm to table dining, with locally grown produce, artisan cheeses, and fresh baked breads. The focus on fresh, local ingredients and pet-friendly dining options reflects the active, community-oriented lifestyle of Bar Harbor. Whether dining at a casual harbor side eatery or an upscale restaurant, Maine cuisine delivers authentic coastal taste and a true sense of place that reflects the state’s maritime heritage.
With your appetite whetted, let’s explore what Main Street has to offer for you and your pup.
Main Street Attractions
Bar Harbor’s Main Street is the beating heart of downtown, where the energy of the town comes alive and every stroll feels like a celebration of local flavor. Whether you’re starting your day with a walk or winding down after exploring Acadia National Park, Main Street offers a vibrant mix of sights, sounds, and tastes for you and your pup to enjoy together.
Lined with an array of unique shops, galleries, and some of the best dog friendly restaurants in Bar Harbor, Main Street is a haven for pet lovers. Many restaurants here, like the ever-popular Side Street Cafe and Stewman’s Lobster Pound, welcome dogs at their pet friendly outdoor tables. It’s easy to find a spot where you can relax with your pup while savoring a bowl of creamy clam chowder, a classic lobster roll, or a plate of steamed clams. If you’re craving something different, you’ll also find wood fired pizza, juicy burgers, and fresh seafood dishes that showcase the best of Maine’s coastal cuisine.
As the sun sets, Main Street transforms into a lively hub with live music drifting from patios and the buzz of families, friends, and four-legged companions enjoying the evening air. Many of the pet friendly restaurants and street cafes offer outdoor patios or decks, so you can dine al fresco with your dog by your side, soaking in the friendly atmosphere that makes Bar Harbor so special.
Don’t miss a stop at the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, conveniently located on Main Street. The staff are always ready with tips, maps, and the latest info to help you make the most of your trip—whether you’re looking for the best pet friendly restaurants, planning a day in Acadia National Park, or searching for local events.
Main Street is also a shopper’s delight, with boutiques and gift shops offering everything from Maine-made crafts to dog treats and souvenirs. Grab a coffee or a snack at a cozy café, browse for unique finds, or simply sit back and people-watch as your pup enjoys the parade of new friends.
With its welcoming vibe, diverse dining options, and plenty of places for your dog to join the fun, Main Street is a must-visit for anyone exploring Bar Harbor. Whether you’re here for a family meal, a quick bite after a hike, or a leisurely evening out, Main Street promises a memorable experience for both you and your furry companion.
Ready to plan your visit? Here are some important things to consider before you go.
Things to Consider
Booking and Reservations
When planning your visit to Bar Harbor, you may encounter trouble finding dog-friendly accommodations and restaurants, especially during peak season, so it’s wise to book early and confirm pet policies in advance. Reservation planning is also important, as restaurants, tours, and oceanfront hotels often book weeks or months in advance.
Travel Timing
Travel timing plays a major role, as summer and early fall are the busiest seasons with heavier crowds and higher lodging rates. Parking can be limited near popular attractions, so early arrivals or use of the Island Explorer shuttle can save time and stress.
Weather and Packing
Weather conditions along the Maine coast can change quickly, making layered clothing essential even during warmer months.
Pet Policies
Many restaurants are attentive to the needs of their patrons, both human and canine, offering outdoor seating and friendly service. If traveling with pets, confirm policies for lodging, dining patios, and park restrictions. Bar Harbor also features plenty of shops catering to pet owners, where you can find treats, gear, and souvenirs for your furry companion.
Proximity to Attractions
Lastly, consider proximity to Acadia National Park entrances, dining areas, and walking paths to reduce daily driving and maximize your time exploring the area.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth and enjoyable stay in Bar Harbor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dogs in Restaurants in Bar Harbor
Q: Which restaurants near the Bar Harbor harbor actually welcome dogs, and what should I expect when I bring mine?
A: Compared to the bland chain patios that pretend pets don’t exist, Bar Harbor’s local spots tend to be way more welcoming – especially the waterfront places and tiny cafes with a sunny deck.
You’ll see three common types of dog-friendly setups: casual seafood shacks and lobster pounds with outdoor decks, small cafes and bakeries that have sidewalk seating, and a few breweries and pubs with roomy patios. Most of these places don’t let dogs inside, but they’ll happily seat you outside where the breeze and sea smell make everything taste better.
Service often includes a water bowl, a quick head-scratch from staff if your pup is chill, and lots of friendly tourists who’ll want to say hello – which is great unless your dog hates strangers. Call ahead if you want a specific table or if your dog is large, because space can be tight in peak season.
Patio seating is where you want to eat with your dog.
Q: What etiquette and gear should I bring when dining with my dog in Bar Harbor?
A: Like packing for a day hike where a little prep saves everyone time, bringing the right stuff and following basic rules makes dining out with your dog pleasant – for you, your pup, and other diners.
Bring a short leash, a collapsible water bowl, poop bags, and maybe a small towel if your dog likes to shake off after a harbor romp. Keep your dog close and under control – don’t let them sprawl in walkways or jump on people. If your pup’s a counter-surfing ninja, a chew or a long-lasting treat will buy you peace while you eat.
Don’t feed your dog seafood straight off your plate unless you asked the staff – shellfish and rich sauces aren’t always a good idea. And if your dog starts to stress or bark, cut the visit short – it’s better to leave with everyone still smiling.
Ask before giving your dog any human food.
Q: Are there rules, seasonal changes, or legal things I should know about service animals versus pets in restaurants?
A: While some spots let pets lounge on the deck year-round, others change policies with the season – summer patios get busy, and places tighten up rules or close outdoor seating in the off months.
Service animals are treated differently under the law – they can accompany handlers into public areas where customers are normally allowed. Businesses can ask two short questions to verify it’s a service animal, but they can’t demand documentation or quiz you about your disability. Emotional support animals usually don’t have the same access rights as trained service animals, so call ahead if that’s your situation.
Local health codes sometimes affect where pets can go – shellfish shacks and places that prep raw food may restrict animals to separate outdoor areas. A quick phone call clears up most mysteries and keeps you from getting surprised when you arrive.
Call first during July and August – it’s the busiest time and things change fast.