Dirty Apron Cafe

The setup. Dirty Apron is a warm local on McKean Street that welcomes dogs at its outdoor tables - footpath seating plus an alfresco area off the front. Inside is generally people-only, but the outside options are ample, and the cafe is known to keep treats on hand and make a fuss of visiting dogs. Ask for a water bowl and grab a table out of the walkway.

What it is known for. Modern Australian breakfast and lunch built on local produce, with the blueberry buttermilk hotcakes, beef rib sandwich and cauliflower salad among the regular picks. Coffee is Gridlock Espresso. It has a proper neighbourhood feel, so it fills with locals on weekend mornings.

Getting there. Find it at 232 McKean Street, a short walk from Clifton Hill Railway Station. Street parking on McKean and the side streets is suburban and can be tight at peak times.

Make a morning of it. Darling Gardens is a few minutes away for a post-coffee stroll, and the Merri Creek trail network is close for a longer leg-stretch. Aim for a weekday or an early weekend slot to land an outside table with space for the dog.

Sources

• The Dirty Apron - Broadsheet · broadsheet.com.au
• Dirty Apron Cafe - Tripadvisor · tripadvisor.com.au
• Dirty Apron, Clifton Hill - Australian Good Food Guide · agfg.com.au

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