Nothing rings in summertime like sandals; Frederick, Maryland's Alive @ Five events; and dining al fresco.
Since moving into Downtown Frederick two years ago, Illumine8’s entire team has tried all the wonderful dining options that Frederick offers.
We don’t leave anyone behind including Lucy, our Director of Wellness and Engagement.
Looking for a great place to take your four-legged friend? Here are Lucy’s recommended spots for outdoor dining at Frederick Maryland's best dog-friendly restaurants.
Restaurants (all outdoor seating, covered seating noted)
La Paz
A Frederick staple since 1978, this Mexican restaurant has a beautiful view of Carroll Creek Linear Park. We recommend starting with the salsa and a pitcher of sangria or margaritas.
Döner Bistro
Want to experience Oktoberfest fare all year? Take your pup to Döner Bistro, also located with a view of Frederick’s Carroll Creek Linear Park. Döner states “It’s your day, your life; you deserve a little fun.” We couldn’t agree more.
Barley and Hops
In addition to the craft brews and killer Maryland crab soup, we highly recommend their special events, including Yappy Hour on the third Thursday of each month.
Brewer's Alley
This recently renovated and expanded brewery is a Downtown staple. With plenty of outdoor seating and a “puppy patio”, two- and four-legged patrons are in for a great “hoppy” hour and wood-fired pizzas.
Café Bueno
Team Illumine8’s favorite Friday restaurant. In fact, all other food is compared on a “scale of Bueno” - yes, it’s just that good. We highly recommend everything, but especially the daily specials. There are two cafe tables outside for you and the pup.
Cafe Nola
Three words: Bloody Mary Bar. Breakfast and brunch are also highly recommended. Outdoor seating gives you a great view of Patrick Street and the bustling square.
Isabella's Taverna & Tapas Bar
For those days when you just can’t decide - Tapas! Try a little bit of everything on the menu at the Spanish-style tapas restaurant. The Esparragos Fritos con Alioli (crispy panko crusted asparagus “fries” served with a smoked tomato aioli in a champagne glass) are a must.
Fun fact: This is where our founder, Christina, got engaged. Lucy is a fan.
JoJo’s Restaurant and Taphouse
Just down Patrick Street from Cafe Nola, JoJo’s boasts a lovely selection of craft brews, cocktails, and farm-to-fork fare.
Pistarro’s Restorante Pizzeria
Innovative, wood-fired pizza that will remind you of Italy. Feeling adventerous? Try the Blu Fico Pizza: Gorgonzola, yukon gold potatos, figs, mozzarella, and rosemary oil. Top it off with a nice glass of wine under their lovely outdoor pergola and the stars.
Blue Side Tavern
Imagine a restaurant that combines the best of Johnny Cash, The Record Company, and Bob Dylan tossed with your favorite dishes from your southern grandmother - always served on a pretzel bun. What are you waiting for? Dreams of grits and homemade mayo await you.
Vini Culture
Forget the pressure of choosing the perfect wine. Try them all with Vini Culture’s enomatic wine system. A taste or a glass, this urban wine bar and cafe has something for every winelover. We are also big fans of their Illumine8 yellow patio dining chairs.
Pretzel & Pizza Creations
Best described by our Graphic Designer Erik Pitzer, “Pretzel Focaccia - I want you.” Out late? Pretzel & Pizza Creations is open till 3 a.m. on Saturdays. Cafe seating is available but limited.
Monocacy Crossing
Immediately over the Monocacy River, this dining destination has a lovely landscaped outdoor patio. Looking for a lunch or light dinner option? The grilled flank steak salad is an Illumine8 favorite.
Sonic Drive-In
Perfect for on-the-go with a little nostalgia thrown in for fun. For Maryland natives, Sonic is a sure sign that you're getting close to Ocean City! Now Fredericktonians don’t need to drive to beach to get their favorite Sonic Shake.
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Calling all Chipotle-heads! The outdoor dining option at the Clemson Corner Chipotle is Lucy-friendly. Fun fact: Illumine8’s resident Chipotle devotee is none other than our writer, Kelly Jacobson.
a.k.a. Friscos
Another Illumine8 favorite, a.k.a. Friscos specializes in fantastic sandwiches, but what we all really crave are their amazing exploded potatoes. Imagine the best baked potato you ever had with all the fixin’s, as warm potato salad love.
The Wine Kitchen on the Creek
Enjoy flights of wine and innovative culinary creations while overlooking Carroll Creek Linear Park. Lucy prefers her flight of wine while watching the ducks swim through the lily pads.
REINA Restaurant & Bar
Pisco sours and puppies go together like peanut butter and jelly. A quick walk to REINA’s backyard patio, and you and your pup can enjoy this hidden gem away from the street hustle and bustle.
Mediterranean Grill
Located in Westview Promenade, this dog-friendly spot is a good stop off for an authentic gyro or kabob. Want something sweet? The bakery next door also boasts outdoor cafe seating for you and the pup.
AYŞE Meze Lounge
Opa! AYŞE’s expansive outdoor patio is one of the few covered places you and Fido can enjoy a bite or several at this Mediterranean tapas-style spot. Don’t know where to start? We highly recommend the spread platter complete with fresh baked, warm pita.
Don’t see your restaurant listed here? Lucy would be happy to add you to her list of dog friendly restaurants in Frederick MD. Just give her a shout -- or a dog biscuit or two.
You can also download all of Lucy’s recommendations for a doggone good day.
