Frank's

Frank's is the brunch spot of the Cheltenham strip, on Cavanagh Street near Charman Road, with an open kitchen and a menu that leans Asian-French rather than standard big-breakfast territory. Think crispy pork belly benedict, chilli scrambled eggs and a house katsu chicken sando, with meats sourced through a local butcher and proper coffee. For dog owners it is one of the more reliable sit-down options in Bayside's south-east.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables across the front of the cafe, and staff routinely put water bowls out without being asked. The footpath seating is finite, and weekend mornings fill it fast, so arrive before the rush if you are bringing the dog. Inside is a no, per standard Victorian food rules, so this is fair-weather brunching.

The vibe

Busy and popular with locals, particularly Saturday and Sunday mornings when the queue stretches. Weekday mornings from 7am are calmer if your dog prefers space. The kitchen turns out house-made cakes and tarts, and regulars argue about the best order, which is usually a good sign.

Max: get here before 8am on a weekend or the front tables are gone. The water bowl arrives fast, but the shade does not.

Getting there and parking

The cafe sits at 97 Cavanagh Street, Cheltenham, an easy walk from Cheltenham Station and the Charman Road shops. Street parking runs along Cavanagh Street but turns competitive at weekend peak, so the train or an earlier start wins on Saturdays. Hours run 7am to 3pm weekdays and 8am to 3pm weekends.

Close by with the dogs

Cheltenham Park Dog Off Leash Area is a short walk for a run before or after breakfast, and Snowdon Reserve Fenced Dog Park offers a secure option nearby. On a warm day, Mentone Beach Dog Off Leash Area is a few minutes down the road.

More options are on the Victoria dog-friendly cafes guide and the Cheltenham destination page.