Recently I adopted an absolute gem of a dog from the Cayman Islands Humane Society.  Seeing that she enjoys playing outside and is well behaved around others, we have been exploring different bars and restaurants on island that are considered dog friendly.  This is just a list of my personal favourites when taking Millie with me for an outing, but if you want a more extensive list visit Pawprints In Paradise’s website.

Camana Bay

This expansive community is great if your dog can handle a bustling environment; bicycles, cars, joggers and kids playing are just a few distractions.  There are so many eateries with outdoor seating in Camana Bay that it’s hard to choose just one.  It you prefer a casual meal consider meat-filled sandwiches from Carnivore, Caribbean fusion from Tomfoodery Kitchen & Bar or healthy bites from Jessie’s Juice Bar.  UNION Grill & Bar may be considered a high-end restaurant, but they are known for serving chef-made dog treats and host puppy breakfast events alongside One Dog At A Time.  Looking to end your day with something sweet? Visit Gelato & Co. for some of the best homemade desserts on island, and order their doggie gelato for your fur baby on a hot day.

Macabuca

This casual seaside restaurant is a favourite spot for residents, tourists, and shore divers.  You’ll usually find a few dogs relaxing around the bar, exploring the nearby rock pools on the ironshore or divers walking around in their gear.  The Macabuca staff cater to your pup by bringing over a bucket of ice-cold water, but they also have homemade dog treats made by biltong maker Todd Shipster known as Shipster’s Scooby Snacks.

Coral Beach 

If your dog enjoys playing in the sand and swimming in the sea, then make sure you take time to visit the white sands of Seven Mile Beach.  Some beaches tend to be quite busy with frisbees, umbrellas and crowds like Governor’s Beach, while others are more relaxed and quieter, such as the casuarina-covered Cemetery Beach.  I find that Coral Beach is a good option as it offers sun and shade, sand, and sea and of course there’s food and beverages for the dog parents to enjoy.  The property up top is large and has a variety of seating areas, but due to the recent beach erosion below, the area can’t accommodate tables or loungers, so it gives your dog some space to dig, run and play (while leashed, of course).

Rackams

This casual seaside bar is known for being extremely dog friendly, so it’s a great spot if your dog is social. Dogs are allowed in the main bar area only, but that means they get a lot of attention from the dog obsessed staff.  They have dog bowls on hand and fill them with chilled water to keep your pup hydrated as you enjoy cocktails, beer, and grub.  Don’t be surprised if they ask questions about your furry family member as many of them have also adopted locally from the Humane Society or One Dog At A Time. 

Follow Island Epicurean on Instagram and Facebook to learn more about the culinary scene in Cayman.