Happy As Larry Cafe

Happy As Larry at 106 Charman Road is a popular local brunch cafe with a diverse menu and a couple of ways to sit with a dog. The undercover rear deck is the standout: an option that holds up in cold or wet weather, with heaters and blankets on hand.

The dog setup. Two outdoor options. Small umbrella-shaded tables sit on the front footpath on Charman Road, and an undercover decked courtyard at the back welcomes dogs, usually reached via a rear laneway. The covered deck with heaters and blankets makes winter visits workable. Keep your dog leashed and off the furniture, and bring a water bowl to be safe.

Good to know. Open daily for brunch (roughly 7am to 3pm), with freshly baked muffins, fusion plates and a good gluten-free and vegan range. It is casual and family-friendly, so expect a lively room at weekends.

Getting there. Street parking is on Charman Road (check the time-limit signs), with public bays in nearby side streets and shopping car parks. It is a short walk from Mentone station.

Nearby with the dogs. Mentone Beach and its off-leash western sand sit a short trip down Charman Road, between Charman and Plummer Roads. Charman Road itself has other dog-friendly stops for a longer outing.

When to go. The back deck is the pick in cold or wet weather. Weekday mornings are quietest; weekends fill with the brunch and family crowd.

Sources

• Happy As Larry Mentone · happyaslarry.co
• Dog Friendly Eateries in and around Bayside · baysidedogownersgroup.com.au

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