the Lilydale General

the Lilydale General is a rustic specialty-coffee cafe on Beresford Road, a popular stop on the way into the Yarra Valley and a genuine local favourite for dogs. The draw for owners is the fenced front courtyard.

The dog setup. Dogs are welcome in the front outdoor courtyard, which is enclosed by a picket fence and shaded with umbrellas, so it is a secure spot to settle a dog. There is no fee. Indoors is for human customers. The cafe is known to keep treats on hand for regulars; bring your own water bowl to be safe.

Good to know. The kitchen does Axil specialty coffee, all-day breakfast and lunch, plus Yarra Valley wines and beers. Reviews mention chilli scrambled eggs, smashed avo and freshly squeezed juice.

Getting there. 110 Beresford Road, Lilydale. Street parking is available on Beresford Road and the nearby residential streets.

Nearby with the dogs. Lillydale Lake is a short drive for a walk and off-leash run.

Weekend mornings are the busy stretch; a weekday or mid-morning visit is calmer for a dog who would rather not be in a crowd.

Sources

• the Lilydale General | Specialty Coffee · thelilydalegeneral.com.au

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