Mount Erica Hotel

The Mount Erica Hotel is a historic corner pub at 420 High Street, Prahran, and the reason dog owners keep coming back is the pair of large paved courtyards out the back, with covered and heated sections that keep everyone comfortable through a Melbourne winter.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome in the two courtyards, which are the main dog-friendly space, kept on a lead and well behaved. There is limited footpath seating out front as well, and water bowls are usually available outside. Community reports say well-mannered dogs are sometimes allowed inside when the pub is quiet, but treat that as a bonus rather than a plan, because the courtyards are the safe bet.

The bistro leans classic pub: steak, schnitzels, oysters and a crab linguine, with a Sunday roast that draws a crowd and a steak special on Tuesdays. The pub trades from midday to late every day, and it is a busy local, so expect a lively room at peak meal times.

The vibe

It is a proper neighbourhood bistro pub with an indoor fireplace for the cold months and a long history on this corner of High Street. Book ahead for weekend dinners, and ask for a courtyard table when you arrive with the dog.

Getting there and parking

The number 6 tram stops nearby at Williams Road and High Street, which is the easiest way in. Street parking exists around the block but is limited, so read the signs carefully, particularly in the evening.

While you're out there

Victoria Gardens Dog Off Leash Area is a short walk away for a leg-stretch before lunch, and Orrong Romanis Reserve is the bigger off-lead option nearby.

For a morning coffee before the pub, Aura espresso bar & cafe is close by, and Fawkner Park in South Yarra suits a longer off-lead run. See more dog-friendly pubs in Victoria or our guide to Prahran with the dogs.