EL Mirage

EL Mirage is a busy brunch cafe on the Lygon Street strip in Brunswick East, and it welcomes dogs at its street-side tables. If you want a coffee and a solid feed with the dog parked beside you, this is an easy inner-north stop.

The dog setup. Dogs are welcome at the outdoor and footpath seating along Lygon Street. Inside is best kept to assistance dogs, so aim for a footpath table, ideally under cover if the weather is turning. Staff have been known to hand out dog treats, and a water bowl is easy enough to ask for.

Good to know. The kitchen is the draw here, with a well-regarded brunch and lunch menu and reliable coffee. It gets loud and busy on weekends, so a calm dog that can settle underfoot will have the better time.

Getting there. Street parking on Lygon Street is limited at peak weekend times; the side streets like Albert Street or Stewart Street are your better bet. The Route 1 and 6 trams run right along Lygon Street.

Nearby with the dogs. Fleming Park off-leash area is a short walk away for a run before or after your meal, and the quieter Brunswick East side streets make for an easy amble.

Go on a weekday morning if you want a table without the queue. Good for a social dog that is happy in a bustling footpath crowd.

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.