by Wendy Marshall

NOSH NY Bagels -Okatie (HHI Location on the way)

If breakfast with your pup sounds like the perfect start to your day, Nosh NY Bagels delivers. Fried (not scrambled) Egg & Cheese on an Asiago bagel is my latest addiction— warm, chewy, and cheesy (add bacon, if you’re tempted). Dogs aren’t just welcome — they’re celebrated!

Nosh sells high-protein “Doggie Bagels” (plain or blueberry). Many regulars grab a side of eggs or bacon to share, too. It’s casual, friendly, and exactly what you want in a laid-back Lowcountry breakfast stop with your four-legged brunch buddy. Order ahead on their app, so it’s ready when you arrive! Nosh is expanding! In May, their new Hilton Head location opens in The Villages at Wexford —with all outdoor seating. Simply walk-up to the window and order with your pooch. 🐾

Okatie Ale House

This lively waterfront spot is a favorite, go-to watering hole for locals, visitors, and Sun City residents, thanks to its vibrant outdoor bar and relaxing lagoon views. Dogs are warmly welcomed, making it an ideal stop to unwind with your pup by your side. While there are several high-top tables, you can always request a standard-height table if you prefer to sit closer to your furry companion.

Their generous Grouper Piccata — easily enough for two (or a second meal later), is divine! Two large pieces of grouper are lightly egg-washed before sauteing to keep them perfectly moist, then served with capers, tomatoes, garlic, and lemon butter sauce
over linguini. Prefer chicken? The Chicken Piccata is just as delicious — you really can’t go wrong either way!

Southern Spice Deli & Catering

For all you French fry connoisseurs, I’ve found a hidden gem just off the beaten path serving some of the most delicious, decadent, fresh-cut fries around. They instantly take me back to my childhood—amusement park fries, cooked in hot peanut oil, piled high,
and smothered in salt and ketchup. These alone are worth setting your diet aside for a day.

My favorite is a half sandwich, like the tuna melt on sourdough (several options from which to choose) with a side of those fabulous fries—affordable and satisfying. Hours are limited to weekdays (7 AM–3 PM), making it a perfect lunch spot.
Dogs are welcome outside, and the owner offers free dog biscuits (just be sure to ask). They also offer a frequent diners rewards program.

Pomodori Too!

Friday nights are now “date night” for my dog, Chloe, and me. And while she loves any outing, this is hands-down her favorite. If your pup enjoys roasted chicken, you’ve found “the perfect spot for Spot”! The manager will happily provide a foil container of freshly roasted chicken for your dog—pure tail-wagging joy.

For me, the Pappardelle con Capesante e Vodka: jumbo sea scallops, vodka sauce, pancetta, and fresh basil, over hand-cut pappardelle, topped with grated parmesan, is what I crave.(photo above). It’s as indulgent as it sounds. Order inside at the counter, then choose any open table outside on the patio that suits you and your pooch (just not the front porch). Weather permitting, enjoy live music several evenings per week from 5pm until 7:30pm.

Truffles Cafe

With 20 outdoor tables, Truffles Café makes dining with your dog feel effortless and comfortable. Fresh, sanitized water bowls are brought out for every four-legged guest, and with fans in the summer and space heaters in cooler months, the patio is enjoyable
year-round. (They also have a pet-friendly location in Hilton Head, with outdoor seating.) My must-order here is the Napa Tuna Salad — truly one of the most unique salads I’ve ever eaten. An 8 oz. sashimi-grade yellowfin tuna steak, grilled medium-rare, is served over shredded napa cabbage with toasted almonds, crunchy noodles, sesame seeds, and a sesame ginger dressing. The flavors come together beautifully for a fresh, unforgettable dish that keeps me coming back again and again!

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