Cafe Rafaele

The short version. Cafe Rafaele sits at 19 Havelock Ave, a couple of minutes' walk back from Coogee Beach, and it runs a large outdoor space that comfortably takes dogs. It is an easy stop before or after a beach walk rather than a destination in its own right.

The dog setup. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor area, which is roomy by cafe standards, so there is space for a settled dog beside your table rather than a squeeze on a narrow footpath. Indoors is for people only. Staff are used to dogs; ask at the counter if you need a water bowl rather than assuming one is out.

Good to know. It does breakfast and lunch daily from 7:30am to 3pm, with dinner Thursday to Saturday. Coffee is the draw for most regulars, alongside French-leaning brunch plates. Weekend mornings run busy with the beach crowd, so the outdoor tables fill.

Getting there. Street parking on Havelock Ave and the surrounding streets is limited once the beach fills, so arrive early on a fine weekend or plan to walk in.

Make a morning of it. Combine it with the on-leash grassed areas at the southern end of Coogee Beach or a stretch of the coastal path toward Gordons Bay. Go earlier rather than later if you want an outdoor table with room for the dog.

Sources

• Cafe Rafaele · caferafaele.com
• Cafe Rafaele, Coogee - 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.