Kerrie's Cafe

Kerrie's Cafe is a small, family-run local favourite on Kentwell Road in Allambie Heights, right next door to Hallstrom Park on Sydney's Northern Beaches side. The combination does most of the work: an outdoor seating area out front that is genuinely dog-friendly, and a park across the boundary for the walk either side of it.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating out front, on a lead and close to your table, since the space is shared with other diners. A water bowl is typically put out for dogs and the staff are cheery with regulars' pets, though carrying a collapsible bowl is smart for the park leg. Indoor seating is for people only. The vibe is neighbourhood casual: prams, school runners and dogs on morning loops.

On the plate

The menu leans local cafe classics with a Brazilian touch: falafel wraps and Turkish bread toasties, bacon and egg rolls, acai bowls and a gravy roll with its own following, plus mini cupcakes for the kids. Reviewers consistently single out the friendly, cheery staff. It trades 5:30am to 4pm on weekdays, closed Tuesdays, and from 6am on weekends.

Getting there and parking

The cafe sits at 2/33 Kentwell Road near the corner with Wakehurst Parkway. Street parking on Kentwell Road is the easiest option, and arriving before nine on weekends is the difference between an outdoor table and a wait.

Make a day of it

Hallstrom Park is right next door for a leg-stretch before or after coffee, and Hinkler Dog Park at North Manly is a short drive for a proper off-lead run. Behind The Beans in Frenchs Forest is the nearby alternative for another morning.

More options are on the NSW dog friendly cafes guide and the Allambie Heights destination page.