Are you looking for dog-friendly restaurants around the Durban area? You’ve arrived at the right place.
From casual beachfront cafes & stylish urban courtyards to tranquil spots on the Dolphin Coast, this article highlights some of the best spots in the city that offer a great dining experience for you & your furry companion.
Additionally, whether you’re exploring a new restaurant or lounging at home, it’s always reassuring to know that your pets are taken care of when it comes to regular vet appointments & unexpected medical bills. MediPet offers various pet insurance plans that provide comprehensive, genuine, & transparent cover. Get an obligation-free quote online in seconds today.
Key Takeaways:
- Durban offers a diverse mix of pet-friendly cafés, bistros & beachfront restaurants for every occasion.
- From relaxed spots like FOAM Café to luxury venues like The Oyster Box, pets are warmly welcomed & well accommodated.
- Coastal favourites such as Surf Riders Café and Bellevue Café provide the perfect mix of good food, ocean views, and room for your pup to unwind.
Top 9 Dog-friendly Restaurants in Durban
With its sunny weather & beachside culture, Durban boasts a fantastic restaurant scene where many establishments eagerly welcome your whole family, pets included.
We’ve curated this list based on venues offering prime locations, ample outdoor patios for pets to settle comfortably, & any specific features like dedicated menus for dogs.
Continue reading to browse our top choices across the North Coast & city, ensuring you & your canine companion find the perfect spot for a delicious & fun outing.
1. Surf Riders Café
Location: 17 Erskine Terrace, South Beach, Durban, 4001
Surf Riders Café is an iconic, laid-back beachfront eatery situated right on the Durban Promenade, near uShaka Marine World. This cafe is a local institution, famous for its chilled “Just Good Chow” philosophy & its unbeatable location, making it an ideal spot for a meal after a long walk on the beach or the promenade.
Surf Riders Café operates daily, typically from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm. It is highly recommended to call them directly at 062 747 7037 before visiting, as they do not take reservations on weekends or public holidays. You can also visit the Surf Riders Café website for more information.
Pet-Friendly Features
This café is celebrated as one of Durban’s most genuinely pet-friendly venues. They feature a specialised section in their menu dedicated entirely to their four-legged guests, which includes a deluxe snack-biscuit & other treats. Pets are welcomed by restaurant staff in the outdoor seating area, where they can relax & savour their treats.
What's on the Menu?
For human guests, the menu offers a diverse selection of contemporary food. You can enjoy everything from hearty breakfasts & wood-fired pizzas to burgers, Korean brioche toasties, & even a few vegan options. The atmosphere is relaxed & trendy, providing spectacular views of the ocean.
2. Bellevue Café
Location: 5 Bellevue Rd, Kloof, Durban, 3610
Bellevue Café in Kloof offers a cool, leafy escape just behind the Delcairn Centre. This much-loved local spot combines a relaxed, neighbourhood feel with contemporary flair. It’s known for friendly service, a peaceful garden setting, & an easy-going charm that keeps regulars coming back for breakfast with friends or long, lazy lunches.
To book, use the reservation form on their website or call them on 031 717 2780 or 063 696 7743. Bellevue Café is open from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm on Mondays to Fridays, 8:00 am to 9:00 pm on Saturdays, & from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm on Sundays.
Pet-Friendly Features
Dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables, where the shady trees & open space make it a perfect stop for pet owners exploring the Upper Highway area. The café’s calm environment & welcoming team create a genuinely pet-friendly vibe that’s ideal for families, friends & furry companions alike.
What's on the Menu?
Guests can enjoy a wholesome menu featuring delicious breakfasts, healthy salads, fresh pastas, & decadent desserts, all complemented by great coffee & a selection of premium wines. The kitchen focuses on quality ingredients served with casual sophistication.
3. Old Town Italy
Location: 39 Meridian Drive, Umhlanga Rocks, Durban, 4319
Old Town Italy captures the warmth & authenticity of a traditional Italian marketplace in the heart of Umhlanga. With rustic décor, aromatic coffee, & the buzz of its in-house deli, it’s a favourite for leisurely breakfasts, hearty lunches or sociable dinners with friends or family.
To make a reservation, use the booking form on the Old Town Italy website or call ahead on 031 566 5008. They’re open Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am – 10:00 pm, & Sundays from 7:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome in the outdoor seating area, where well-behaved dogs on leads can relax beside their owners. While official pet amenities aren’t advertised, guest reviews frequently mention friendly staff who provide water bowls & make pets feel at home – making it a genuinely inclusive spot for pet lovers.
What's on the Menu?
The menu features artisanal pizzas, hand-rolled pastas, fresh salads & indulgent desserts, all crafted with premium ingredients & authentic Italian flair. Their bakery serves croissants, sourdoughs & pastries – perfect with a barista coffee or an afternoon Aperol Spritz.
4. FOAM Café
Location: Shop 1B, 30 North Beach Road, Umdloti Beach, eMdloti, 4350
Nestled along the shoreline of Umdloti, FOAM Café is a relaxed coastal gem loved by locals for its fresh seaside air, ocean views & laid-back atmosphere. The café’s beachy décor & friendly staff make it an inviting spot for breakfast, brunch, or a sunset coffee after a walk on the beach.
You can check daily specials, updates & opening hours via the FOAM Café Facebook page. They’re open daily from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Pet-Friendly Features
FOAM proudly welcomes all well-behaved pets on leads into the café. Dogs are provided with fresh water bowls & plenty of affection. The open, breezy layout ensures pets stay comfortable, while the café’s dog-friendly approach has earned it a loyal following among local dog owners.
What's on the Menu?
Human guests can enjoy barista-made coffee, wraps, salads & baked treats crafted with fresh ingredients. The menu reflects the relaxed beach vibe – simple, wholesome & full of flavour, ideal for a post-surf snack or an easy morning meal.
5. Mimosa Restaurant & Bar
Location: 1 Old Fort Road, Foxhill, Salt Rock, Dolphin Coast, 4420
Nestled within the scenic Sage Centre in Salt Rock, Mimosa Restaurant & Bar offers a relaxed garden dining experience that perfectly captures the North Coast’s laid-back charm. Surrounded by lush greenery & rustic-chic décor, it’s a favourite for families, brunch gatherings, & pet owners looking for a tranquil outdoor escape.
To make a reservation, visit the Mimosa page on the Sage Centre website or call 032 061 0336. Opening hours on Monday are from 7:30 am – 3:00 pm, Tuesday – Sunday’s operating hours are 7:30 am – 4:00 pm, extended to 8:00 pm for Friday dinners.
Pet-Friendly Features
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in Mimosa’s spacious outdoor courtyard, where shaded tables & fresh coastal air make for a comfortable experience for both pets & owners. The restaurant’s friendly staff are known to accommodate furry guests with a warm smile & fresh water on request.
What's on the Menu?
The menu celebrates wholesome, seasonal ingredients with a contemporary twist. Expect wood-fired pizzas, vibrant salads, flavourful breakfasts, & freshly baked treats, alongside craft coffees, smoothies & cocktails. Mimosa’s Friday dinner service adds a touch of coastal elegance for a night out with your family & furry friend.
6. The Oyster Box
Location: 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks, uMhlanga, 4319
An icon of luxury on the KwaZulu-Natal coastline, The Oyster Box is one of South Africa’s most celebrated hotels – & one of the few five-star venues in Durban that truly caters to pets. Overlooking the Indian Ocean & with its iconic red-&-white Umhlanga Lighthouse, the hotel’s elegant charm & exceptional service extend seamlessly to its relaxed dining spaces.
To reserve a table, visit the Oyster Box website or call 031 514 5000. The hotel’s restaurants are open daily from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, offering a luxurious yet pet-friendly seaside dining experience unlike any other in Durban.
Pet-Friendly Features
The hotel welcomes well-behaved pets exclusively at their Ocean Terrace or Oyster Bar dining areas, offering a dedicated pet-friendly policy & even a special Pet Menu crafted by their culinary team. Dogs can join their owners on the terrace while enjoying fresh air and gentle sea breezes, with attentive staff ensuring furry guests are just as comfortable as their humans. For those looking to extend their stay, The Oyster Box also offers luxury pet-friendly accommodation, making it an ideal choice for a seaside getaway with your four-legged companion – you can explore more options like this in our guide to pet-friendly accommodation in Durban.
What's on the Menu?
For pet owners, The Ocean Terrace serves an exquisite range of meals, from wood-fired pizzas & signature seafood curries to decadent desserts & cocktails. Meanwhile, the Oyster Bar is perfect for sundowners with its impressive oyster & champagne pairings.
7. African Roots Café
Location: 15 Chartwell Drive, Umhlanga, Durban, 4320
Situated in the vibrant heart of Umhlanga Village, African Roots Café blends contemporary flair with African-inspired warmth. Its relaxed setting, earthy décor & lively street-side atmosphere make it a popular gathering spot for locals & travellers alike. Whether you’re grabbing a morning coffee or meeting friends for lunch, this café offers an inviting space that celebrates community, creativity & coastal charm.
To find out more about their menu, specials or contact details, visit the African Roots Café website. They’re typically open daily from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Pet-Friendly Features
African Roots Café is proudly pet-friendly, welcoming well-behaved dogs on leads in its outdoor seating area. The shaded patio offers a cool & comfortable environment for pets to rest while their owners enjoy a meal. Staff are known for being friendly & welcoming to dogs, often offering water on request.
What's on the Menu?
The menu showcases a fusion of fresh, locally inspired flavours. Expect hearty breakfasts, wholesome wraps & indulgent desserts. They also serve excellent artisan coffee & refreshing fruit drinks, ideal for Durban’s sunny weather.
8. Mahā Café
Location: 5 Mahatma Gandhi Road, Point Waterfront, Durban, 4001
Tucked into Durban’s revitalised Point Waterfront, Mahā Café brings together fine dining finesse & relaxed coastal charm. Meaning “great soul”, the café celebrates local ingredients, modern design, & a passion for coffee – with a menu led by Michelin-trained chef Rowan Larkin. The result is a contemporary café that feels both refined and welcoming – perfect for slow brunches, a post-walk coffee stop, or relaxing with your pup by your side.
To make an enquiry or confirm their current menu, you can call 082 817 2957 or visit Mahā Café’s Tripadvisor page for updates. They’re open daily from 6:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Pet-Friendly Features
Mahā Café’s resident dog, Daisy, is a much-loved mascot – a clear sign of its pet-friendly spirit. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome in the outdoor seating area, where you can enjoy harbour breezes while your pup lounges nearby. It’s a stylish yet laid-back space for dog owners looking to unwind after a walk along the Point Waterfront.
What's on the Menu?
Guests can indulge in creative seasonal dishes such as Truffle Mac & Cheese, Braised Rib-Eye Steak, and Chicken Curry Pie, with freshly baked pastries and vegan-friendly options like Hummus & Focaccia adding to the appeal. Their coffee, roasted locally by Terbodore, remains a major highlight and a must-try for caffeine lovers.
9. Lupa Osteria
Location: Shop 6, 157 Jan Hofmeyr Road, Westville, Durban, 3629
Lupa Osteria is a traditional Italian restaurant known for its authentic Roman-inspired dining & homely neighbourhood feel. The Westville branch, housed in a heritage building more than 150 years old, blends old-world charm with modern Italian warmth. Exposed brickwork, rustic finishes, & a casual yet refined atmosphere make it a favourite local spot for leisurely lunches & relaxed evening meals.
For reservations, visit the official Lupa Osteria website or call 031 267 0372. The restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday, 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and on Sundays from 12:00 pm to 08:00 pm.
Pet-Friendly Features
This branch offers a dog-friendly patio, where guests can dine outdoors with their pets. The space provides a comfortable setting for dog owners to enjoy classic Italian dishes while soaking up Westville’s easygoing community vibe.
What's on the Menu?
The menu highlights include wood-fired pizzas, hand-crafted pastas, & comforting antipasti dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. It’s ideal for sharing meals with family & friends – including your four-legged companion.
Final Thoughts on the Best Pet-friendly Restaurants in Durban
Durban’s food scene truly shines when it comes to pet-friendly dining. From the oceanfront views at Surf Riders Café to the laid-back garden ambience at Sage Café or the refined setting of The Oyster Box, there’s a spot for every pet owner to enjoy. Each restaurant embraces furry companions with open arms – offering outdoor settings, water bowls & plenty of tail-wagging hospitality.
As you plan your next meal out with your pup, make sure you’re protected with reliable pet insurance. Explore our pet insurance plans & get an obligation-free quote online in seconds today.
For more inspiration, explore our guides to pet-friendly accommodation in Durban or doggy daycare options across South Africa. Because with MediPet, your pets are always part of life’s best moments.
