Mount Gambier has a variety of charming, dog-friendly cafés where you and your furry friend can relax and enjoy some delicious food. Whether you're looking for a quiet brunch spot or a place for a quick coffee, these cafés offer outdoor seating and welcoming atmospheres for both humans and their canine companions.
Location: 2A/4 Wehl St N, Mount Gambier Why it’s Dog-Friendly: Bricks & Mortar Coffee Co. is a haven for coffee lovers and their dogs. They have outdoor seating perfect for sitting with your dog while enjoying their in-house roasted coffee. The proximity to Vansittart Park makes it an excellent stop before or after a stroll. Though seating is limited outside, the friendly staff and delicious brews make it a top spot for dog owners.
What to Try: Their specialty coffee is highly recommended, and the Bircher Muesli makes for a refreshing, healthy start to your day.
Location: 105 Commercial St E, Mount Gambier
Why it’s Dog-Friendly: Presto Eatery is a vibrant café that has quickly become a go-to spot for locals in Mount Gambier. Its fresh, modern vibe gives it a hipster edge, which is reflected in its creative food and drink offerings. While the café’s indoor seating is spacious and beautifully designed, the outdoor seating is a bit more limited. However, Presto Eatery still offers enough space for you to comfortably sit with your dog and enjoy a meal after a walk around town. Located on Commercial Street East, the café’s proximity to the main shopping areas and local parks makes it a convenient stop if you’re exploring the town with your furry companion.
The outdoor area is smaller compared to other dog-friendly spots in Mount Gambier. While the café could benefit from offering a more extensive outdoor seating area, the staff are welcoming to dogs, often bringing out a bowl of water for them on warmer days. Presto Eatery’s slightly smaller patio area makes it a good option for smaller dogs or a quick coffee and snack stop during your day. Because it’s located close to town, it’s a great spot to visit when you need a break while running errands or after a walk around the historic Blue Lake area.
One of the main draws of Presto Eatery is its eclectic and health-conscious menu, which mirrors the modern aesthetic of the café itself. Although seating may not be as plentiful outside for larger groups with dogs, the relaxing atmosphere makes it an ideal stop for a peaceful brunch or afternoon snack. It’s also a good option for those seeking a light meal in the company of their dog, as the outdoor area is away from the busier streets, making it relatively quiet and calm.
What to Try: The menu at Presto Eatery focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and their breakfast wraps and toasties are a huge hit among visitors. The toasties come packed with various fillings, from ham and cheese to more adventurous combinations like spinach, feta, and mushroom. Their breakfast wraps are perfect for a quick meal, featuring scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, avocado, and a flavorful sauce that ties everything together. If you’re looking for something lighter, their range of smoothies is also highly recommended. From green detox smoothies to tropical blends, they offer refreshing drinks that pair well with the café’s healthy food choices.
For those in search of a treat, Presto Eatery is also known for its indulgent homemade pastries and sweets. Whether it’s a decadent brownie or a freshly baked croissant, the café offers something for everyone’s palate. If you’re visiting during lunch, their salads and Buddha bowls offer a nutritious and tasty alternative, perfect for keeping you energized while exploring Mount Gambier with your dog. The portions are generous without being overwhelming, and the café takes pride in catering to a variety of dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Location: 129 Commercial St W, Mount Gambier
Why it’s Dog-Friendly:Bay Blue Espresso Bar stands out as one of the most inviting and pet-friendly cafés in Mount Gambier. Located just a short distance from the iconic Blue Lake, this cozy café offers an ideal retreat for those looking to enjoy a peaceful coffee break with their dog. The outdoor seating area is where Bay Blue truly shines for dog owners. It features several tables that provide a comfortable and relaxed setting for both you and your dog to settle in. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the café’s staff are known for their friendliness toward pets, often bringing out water bowls and giving your pup some extra attention.
While the outdoor seating is generous enough for small groups of dog owners, the space can get busy during peak hours, so it’s best to plan accordingly if you want to secure a prime spot. The café’s location is another big plus—being close to Blue Lake means you can easily take your dog for a scenic walk around the lake and then stop by for coffee and a snack. The staff's willingness to accommodate dogs and their attention to detail in creating a welcoming environment really elevates the experience for pet owners.
Even on colder days, the outdoor area remains cozy, and the café has a steady stream of regulars, both human and canine. It’s common to see locals stopping by with their dogs after a morning walk, which adds to the social, community-driven atmosphere. Bay Blue’s commitment to offering a dog-friendly space is evident in their service; they genuinely make an effort to include pets in the overall experience, ensuring that both you and your dog feel comfortable and well cared for.
What to Try:
Bay Blue Espresso Bar’s menu is just as enticing as its dog-friendly atmosphere. Their Cinnamon Scrolls have earned a bit of a legendary status among regulars, thanks to their soft, fluffy texture and perfectly balanced sweetness. The scrolls are baked fresh, and you won’t want to stop at just one—making them the ideal treat while you relax with your dog.
For a lighter option, the Bircher Muesli is a refreshing choice. It’s packed with fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds, making it a nutritious yet delicious option, especially if you’re visiting after a morning walk around Blue Lake. Paired with one of their expertly brewed coffees or an iced latte, the muesli makes for a perfect brunch or late breakfast option.
If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, Bay Blue also offers a variety of toasties and breakfast wraps. These are made with locally sourced ingredients and are known for their generous portions and great flavor. The café’s homemade baked goods are also worth sampling, with a rotating selection of treats that cater to all tastes—from sweet pastries to savory scones. And of course, their coffee is a standout, with many visitors raving about the quality and care that goes into each cup
Cafe Melzar
Location: 5-7 Englebrecht Ln, Mount Gambier
Why it’s Dog-Friendly:Cafe Melzar offers a tucked-away retreat in Mount Gambier, and its secluded vibe makes it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a quiet atmosphere with their dog. Located in a more peaceful part of town, it’s the kind of café where you can enjoy a relaxing coffee away from the busier streets. If you have a small dog or are visiting during off-peak times, this café is a great option. While the seating outside could be expanded to accommodate more dogs, the peaceful, hidden location means it's rarely overcrowded, making it perfect for those looking for a quieter experience.
Cafe Melzar’s strength lies in its ability to cater to patrons looking for a more tranquil escape. The staff are attentive and happy to serve you and your dog, but the limited outdoor seating space means it’s not always ideal for larger groups of dog owners. However, if you're seeking a more private, calm setting, this café is an ideal place to enjoy a serene morning coffee with your pup. The hidden lane location also contributes to the café's relaxing vibe—giving you the sense that you've stumbled upon a local secret. This makes it particularly good for dog owners who prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of busier establishments.
Because of its off-the-beaten-path charm, the café attracts a loyal following of locals and visitors who appreciate its laid-back atmosphere. It’s especially inviting during the cooler months, with its warm, cozy interior, although dogs will need to remain outside. The outdoor seating area is small but sufficient for those who want to take in the fresh air while enjoying a leisurely coffee with their pet.
What to Try:Cafe Melzar is well-known for its European-inspired dishes, which add a unique flair to its menu. The Eggs Benedict is one of the café’s standout options, praised by many patrons for its perfectly poached eggs and rich hollandaise sauce. The dish is a favorite among regulars, combining familiar flavors with a touch of sophistication.
Beyond the breakfast classics, Cafe Melzar offers a variety of lunch options with European influences, including hearty sandwiches, savoury quiches, and pasta specials. These dishes are all made with fresh ingredients, and the café's commitment to quality shines through in every bite. If you’re visiting later in the day, the lunch menu offers something for every palate, whether you’re craving something light or a more substantial meal.
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