3 of Phoenix’s Best Patios and How Your Dog Would Rate Them
Companies love to identify as “dog-friendly” and we mostly have to take their word for it…
Is your dog sitting on hot pavement next to an empty water bowl while someone’s golden retriever lunges at your breakfast burrito? That’s what we call dog-tolerant.
Restaurant and bar ratings focus on the human experience. That’s understandable. Your dog may have an Instagram, they probably don’t have a Yelp account. Their experiences matter too. So we made something to help out: The Wag Index. You can read the full explanation here, but here’s a quick breakdown:
The Wag Index
Our 10-point scale breaks dog-friendliness into five categories, each scored from 0 to 2:
1. Dog Policy – Is there clarity and intentionality in allowing dogs?
2. Food & Water – Are dog-specific treats, menus, or water provided?
3. Space to Move & Rest– Are dogs constricted or able to walk, play, or lounge?
4. Enrichment & Socialization – Are there toys, events, intentional layouts that support enrichment and social experiences?
5. Comfort & Safety – Is the space shaded, ventilated, and secure?
Depending on the points received on the above criteria, a business could fall into one of three tiers:
• Tier 1 (8–10 points): Truly Dog-Friendly
• Tier 2 (5–7 points): Dog-Positive
• Tier 3 (0–4 points): Dog-Tolerant
Based on this scale, we looked at some of the most popular and well regarded patios for dogs in the Phoenix area. Spoiler alert. Just because humans love the location doesn’t mean that your dog would rate as highly.
Tier 3 (the lowest tier): Dog Tolerant
Chelsea’s Kitchen – Score: 4/10
Of the best patios in the valley, Chelsea’s Kitchen is at the bottom. Sorry, Chelsea. There’s no dog policy posted but ask any staff if dogs are allowed and they’ll confirm that Chelsea’s is “dog friendly” (1 point). There’s no dog menu or food for dogs but the staff is great about making sure each dog gets their own bowl of water (1 point). The trees do filter light but don’t provide consistent shade. There are, however, umbrellas and misters with fans (2 points). Otherwise, your dog needs to be on a leash, under your table, on the concrete (0 points). If I was a dog, I’d be bugged. I recommend the deviled eggs, but don’t share with your dog.
Tier 2: Dog Positive
Luci’s at the Orchard – Score: 5/10
I personally adore Luci’s vibe. It’s visually lush, which is something we need more of in Phoenix. I enjoy the energy of the kids playing in the fountain/splash pad. But for a dog experience, Luci’s is functionally average.
They have clear policies that dogs are allowed on the patio, owners must pick up after their pets, and dogs are not allowed in splash pad (2 points for clarity on the policy). The shade is another strong amenity here. Between the trees, tent, and umbrellas. There’s lots of opportunities to be in shade. They also have misters (2 points).
Outside of that, they provide water but no dog menu (1 point). The flooring is concrete, rocks, and fake turf. That turf gets pretty hot (0 points). Dogs must stay on a leash and again they aren’t allowed on the splash pad. Just a few tweaks and Luci’s would be a dog haven.
Tier 1: Truly Dog-Friendly
The Park at OHSO – Score: 9/10
OHSO is a local chain known for being “dog-friendly” but they really walk the walk at their Gilbert location. The Park is built with dogs to the point that it seems ridiculous to say that they have a clear dog policy. But, they do. Dogs are welcome (2 points).
They have umbrellas and sun sails but they desperately need more shade (1 point). The floors are covered with artificial turf, which can get hot enough to burn paws (0 points).
Though small, they have a fenced in play are where dogs can play off-leash (2 points). This is great enrichment space and dogs are encourage to interact outside the area while on a leash (2 points). Dogs and people are so integrated here that there’s no side eye or judgment from customers or staff when a dog acts like a dog. We love to see it.
Dogs get water bowls and treats (1.5 points). It would be really nice to see even a small dog menu. Maybe some grilled chicken, sweet potato, and a dog ice cream?
More shade, some cooler flooring, and even a tiny dog menu would give The Park a perfect rating.
Final Thoughts
Being “dog-friendly” can’t just mean that your dog won’t get kicked out. The Wag Index is designed to reward intentionality—places that think about the dog as a guest, not just a tag-along.
While searching for spots that perfectly check all the boxes, All Dogs is also building that spot. We need an air conditioned space for dogs and their people. You can join the wait list here.
