Hoppa and Joe

Hoppa and Joe is a neighbourhood brunch cafe at 457 Heidelberg Road, Fairfield, that leans genuinely dog-friendly rather than just tolerating pets. It is a busy morning-walk stop, with shaded footpath and alfresco seating built for dogs at your feet, and staff who hand out treats.

The dog setup

Dogs go in the outdoor alfresco and pavement seating, which is the spot to aim for. Staff are known to be warm with dogs and keep treats on hand, and heaters keep the outdoor area usable through the cooler months. Inside is for indoor dining, so plan on the exterior with your dog on a lead tucked under the table.

Worth knowing

The coffee is strong and the brunch menu runs beyond the standards, with dishes like Duck Benny, breakfast gnocchi and pistachio French toast, plus solid gluten-free bread. Hours run Tuesday to Sunday from 7 to 7:30am, closing 2:30 to 3pm; it is closed Mondays, so do not plan a Monday dog-walk brunch here.

Getting there and parking

It sits right on Heidelberg Road, easy to reach but busy. Free street parking is available on the side streets or on Heidelberg Road itself; check signage for clearway times before you leave the car.

Close by with the dogs

The T H Westfield Reserve off-leash area is close by for a proper run, and the Yarra Bend Park trails are a short trip south for a longer riverside walk, with the off-lead pockets at Darebin Parklands just up the road in Alphington. The Fairfield Park Boathouse makes a good riverside follow-up with dogs welcome outside.

Weekday mornings are the pick if your dog prefers calm over crowds. More of the area's dog-friendly options are under Victoria cafes.