Each year, we ask Orange County Register readers to choose their favorite places to shop, dine, play and do business in OC.<\/p>\n
Here are the top picks for Best dog-friendly restaurant:<\/p>\n
1. Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar<\/p>\n
Brea, Irvine, Orange; lazydogrestaurants.com<\/a><\/p>\n It\u2019s more than just a name. In the case of Lazy Dog, it\u2019s instructive. Canine companions are not just allowed, they\u2019re invited and catered to.<\/p>\n \u201cCreating a welcoming experience for guests and their dogs is part of what makes Lazy Dog special,\u201d says Chris Simms, CEO and founder of Lazy Dog Restaurants.<\/p>\n There\u2019s even a menu, which includes a complimentary bowl of water<\/p>\n There are also Dog Bowls, featuring grilled chicken or hamburger with rice and vegetables, that \u201callow pups to enjoy mealtime alongside their owners,\u201d Simms says.<\/p>\n Of course the restaurants, three in Orange County and about 50 nationally, are more than just doggie diners, although they enjoy a five-bone rating on Bring Fido. The people\u2019s food menu includes an array of American classics such as BBQ ranch bacon burgers and international dishes such as Korean bao buns and Cuban sandwiches, plus seasonal surprises like peach burrata. You can also get salads, soups and starters.<\/p>\n Guests, human ones, can enjoy craft cocktails, beers, wine and nonalcoholic beverages.<\/p>\n The eateries haven\u2019t gone completely to the dogs. Other than service animals, pups must stay on the patio. They are not allowed in laps or to eat from human plates and glasses, and three Bs are NOT allowed: barking, biting and begging.<\/p>\n As Simms puts it, \u201cIt\u2019s incredibly rewarding to see so many guests make Lazy Dog part of their everyday outings and special moments with their pups.\u201d<\/p>\n Also see: Best of Orange County 2026: See all the winners<\/a><\/p>\n 2. OC Local Taproom<\/p>\n