Playfish

Playfish is a family-run, retro-themed cafe at 53 Forbes Street, just outside Devonport's city centre, and it is listed as pet-friendly on the regional tourism directories Discover Tasmania and Spirit of Tasmania. The retro decor, generous portions and early opens have made it a local favourite, rated 4.7 across roughly 250 reviews.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome in the outdoor dining area, which suits the small, home-style feel of the place. Staff are known for a warm welcome and can usually bring out a water bowl on request, but permanent bowls are not part of the listing, so a travel bowl is worth packing. Confirm the outdoor tables are open when you arrive, as space is limited and the room fills early.

The vibe

The kitchen runs light, home-style cooking with nothing deep-fried, blending Australian, Asian and European dishes. The Big Fish Breakfast and the Playfish Combo, a hot drink with an egg and bacon muffin, anchor the morning menu, the chicken sando has a following, and there are vegetarian and vegan options plus a chai latte worth the trip. Sweets and baked goods come out of the on-site pastry kitchen. Hours are 6am to 2pm weekdays and 7am to 11:30am Saturdays, closed Sundays.

Getting there and parking

Forbes Street sits just off the main drag, with free unmetered street parking right outside and step-free access. It is an easy detour if you are catching the Spirit of Tasmania or heading along the Bass Highway.

Close by with the dogs

Devonport City Council lists Back Beach in the Mersey Bluff precinct as a 24/7 off-leash beach, a short drive west, and the fenced Devonport dog park off Steele Street covers the off-leash run without sand. The Mersey River walk near the Bluff suits an on-lead stroll before coffee. The Little Goat and Lumen Coffee Lounge are other dog-friendly cafes across the river in East Devonport.

More options are on the Tasmania dog friendly cafes guide and the Devonport destination page.

Max: doors open at 6am on weekdays and the early slot is the calm one. Come at 8am with a dog and you will be weaving leads between the breakfast crowd.