Take a stroll down Central Avenue in EDGE District and you’re sure to run into tons of dogs. Nearly every downtown restaurant that offers outdoor dining is also dog-friendly, most even provide water bowls and treats. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find a restaurant in the EDGE District that isn’t dog friendly. It’s no wonder St. Petersburg was voted one of the most dog-friendly cities in the United States!
While most EDGE District restaurants are pet-friendly, there are a few that go above and beyond to cater to your furry friend.
Ferg’s Sports Bar
1320 Central Avenue
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Ferg’s takes the top prize for dog-friendliest restaurant in the EDGE District. How can you top a sport’s bar that has a small and large dog park on to their property? But wait, there’s more! They have their very own doggy dining menu too.
For those that’ve never been, Ferg’s is an institution in the EDGE District. Encompassing nearly two city blocks, there is something for everybody at Fergs, including your dogs. With over 90 TVs and tons of indoor and outdoor seating, get ready for a fantastic afternoon in the EDGE District. Order Ferg’s Famous Wings for you and some Beer Grain Hushpuppie Cookies for the good boy, sit back and watch the game.
No Vacancy
937 Central Avenue
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
CREDIT: DOG FRIENDLY ST PETERSBURG
Local restauranteur Stephen Schrutt, who also owns The Avenue and Park and Rec, opened No Vacancy in the EDGE District in 2019 to much fanfare. The restaurant and bar features an expansive outdoor garden, which includes a container bar serving full liquor, beer and wine.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join their humans on the patio and water bowls are available upon request. The menu is full of Florida favorites including seafood nachos, lobster dip, grouper sandwiches, punch bowls and local draft beers.
No Vacancy is a nod to St Petersburg's historic mom and pop motels of the 40’s and 50’s. In fact, St. Petersburg's Fourth Street used to be advertised as "the longest motel street in the world”. Some still exist today, but No Vacancy pays proper tribute to our city’s past.
Red Mesa Mercado
1100 1st Avenue North
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Red Mesa Mercado is the fast-casual sibling of Red Mesa Cantina, one of downtown’s most popular restaurants serving modernized Mexican fare. Mercado offers the same tasty burritos, tacos, bowls, and quesadillas out of a take-out window with a huge covered patio that’ll keep your pooch shielded from the Florida sun while you enjoy your meal.
And take it from a local… Don’t sleep on Mercado’s breakfast!
Poppo’s Taqueria
1033 Central Avenue
St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Although dog’s are not allowed inside Poppo’s Taqueria, the outdoor bar area has leash hookups on the wall and a filtered water station for your pup. Poppo’s is a local favorite in the EDGE District, known for their made-to-order tortillas and chips. Although our personal favorite is the Baby Bowl, your choice of one protein and toppings in 16 oz bowl. At just under six bucks, you really can’t find a meal for cheaper in Downtown St Pete.
