ZipPicks Awards
Best Pet Friendly Restaurants in Elmwood Park
Master Critic Review
Ashley's Cafe & Tap
7.7
A neighborhood cafe-bar hybrid that’s unusually friendly to dog owners—BringFido explicitly notes dogs are welcome inside. Keep the order tight: one coffee lane plus one small bite, and treat it as a quick hang rather than a full meal destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dark Matter Coffee, Do-Rite Donuts, Empanadas
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Dogs are explicitly welcomed inside, not just on a patio.
Who should go: Dog owners grabbing coffee and a bite
When to visit: Late morning for a relaxed pace
What to order: Coffee, donut, empanadas
Insider tip: Make it a 2-item ticket: one drink + one bite, then bounce.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Primarily street parking along nearby residential blocks; generally manageable during mornings and weekdays, tighter on weekends.
Dress code: Very casual — athleisure, dog-walk outfits, and jeans all fit the room.
Noise level: Low to moderate — easy conversation, occasional café-bar hum.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak brunch hours; evenings are usually lighter.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — pastries, empanadas, and small café-style bites work for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — some baked goods or snacks may qualify, but options rotate.
Gluten-free options: Limited — not a dedicated gluten-free kitchen; ask before ordering.
Best For
Better for: Dog owners who want to bring pets inside while grabbing coffee or a small bite.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re looking for a full brunch spread, extensive menu, or a long, sit-down meal.