Uptown Cafe & Bar

Uptown Cafe & Bar is a stylish brunch spot in the thick of the Pakington Street strip in Newtown, at 316 Pakington St. Dogs work best here at the front footpath tables, a bright, busy people-watching perch that suits a settled dog.

The dog setup. Dogs are welcome in the front outdoor and footpath seating along Pakington Street. Inside is generally service dogs only, so plan for the front. Water bowls are usually on offer, and staff have a soft spot for the local dogs that pass through.

Good to know. The menu runs to hearty breakfasts, bao buns, acai bowls and solid coffee, open daily for breakfast through lunch. It gets lively on weekends, which is part of the appeal but worth knowing with a nervous dog.

Getting there. Street parking is on Pakington Street and side streets like O'Connell Street and Riversdale Road. It is an easy walk if you are already exploring Newtown on foot.

Nearby with the dogs. Pakington Street is made for an on-lead wander past other dog-friendly cafes, and the Barwon River tracks are a short walk for a proper leg-stretch either side of brunch.

Aim for a weekday or an early weekend slot. The front tables are the only dog seating, and on a busy morning they go first.

Sources

• Uptown Cafe & Bar · uptowngeelong.com.au
• A guide to the best dog-friendly cafes in the Geelong region · fortemagazine.com.au

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