Oscar Smith

Oscar Smith is an all-day cafe and bar at 518 High Street in Preston, trading 7am to 4pm every day with tapas and drinks events on top of the daytime menu. Opened in 2025 and running under new management, it has quickly become a High Street regular's spot: breakfast and brunch classics through the morning, a hearty steak sandwich at lunch, and rotating small plates with wines and cocktails later in the day.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome at the open-air and footpath dining areas out front, which makes it an easy stop on a High Street walk. Indoor seating is for human guests only, so plan to settle your dog outside. The outdoor zone sits on a busy strip, so a settled dog comfortable with passing prams and trams suits best. Bring your own water bowl and treats to keep them comfortable while you eat.

Max: skip the weekend brunch peak if you want an outdoor table without a wait, and keep your dog tucked in tight off the footpath.

Worth knowing

The kitchen gets particular praise for its steak sandwich and lemon avocado smash, with fish tacos and porchetta panini appearing on the rotating menu. The venue is wheelchair friendly, and the modern, busy dining room spills onto the footpath in fine weather.

Getting there and parking

The 86 tram stops nearby and Preston station is within walking distance, so arriving on foot or by tram with the dog is straightforward. Street parking on High Street and the side streets is available but competitive at meal times.

Close by with the dogs

Ray Bramham Gardens on St Georges Road is handy for a post-brunch stroll, with ornamental lakes and formal plantings, though City of Darebin requires dogs on lead throughout. For a proper off-lead run, Adams Reserve Dog Off Leash Area is the closest dedicated space. For another coffee nearby, Red Bean Coffee Roaster and Moon Rabbit Cafe are other dog-friendly Preston cafes.

More options are on the Victoria dog friendly cafes guide and the Preston destination page.