Westower Tavern

Westower Tavern is the local family bistro at 89 to 93 Kalinga Street in West Ballina, with dogs welcome in the covered outdoor dining area, ample parking and a handful of good off-lead options a short drive away.

The dog setup

Dogs are allowed in the covered outdoor seating area, leashed and under control, with staff usually putting out a water bowl on request. Indoor dining is for humans only under standard NSW food rules, so check in with staff when you arrive to be pointed to the right table. Policies can vary by shift, so confirm with staff on arrival.

Max: ask for a table on the quiet edge of the covered area rather than the middle of the traffic between the bar and the play area. Both of you will eat better for it.

Worth knowing

The kitchen runs classic pub food: schnitzel, pork belly, salt and pepper squid and prawns, in a relaxed, family-friendly setting with live music some nights and a spacious dining area. Hours run late most nights, which makes it a workable dinner stop after a full day out with the dog.

Getting there

The tavern is on Kalinga Street in West Ballina with on-site parking, easy to reach from the main road into Ballina and a short drive from the Pacific Motorway exit.

Close by with the dogs

The Missingham Park off-leash area by the Richmond River is the natural pairing for a run before lunch, and Seven Mile Brewing Co is another dog-friendly pour nearby. The pet-friendly Waterfront Village and Tourist Park makes an easy base if you are staying in the suburb.

Go for a weekday lunch if you want the outdoor tables to yourself. More options are on the New South Wales dog-friendly pubs page, with others nearby in the West Ballina guide.