FRED Eatery

FRED Eatery is one of the busiest breakfast and brunch spots in Aldgate Village in the Adelaide Hills, and it is genuinely set up for dogs rather than just tolerating them. The shaded outdoor courtyard takes dogs, and the cafe backs it up with a water bowl on request, complimentary biscuits and a lactose-free "doggie latte" on the menu.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome in the courtyard and alfresco seating, which is shaded with a good run of tables. As with most South Australian eateries, dogs are not permitted indoors. Ask for the doggie latte when you order, it comes with a biscuit alongside the lactose-free milk. Keep your dog leashed and settled at your feet, because the courtyard fills quickly from mid-morning, especially on weekends.

The vibe

FRED has built its reputation on all-day breakfast and brunch with an Asian-influenced, fresh take on cafe food: gnocchi, french toast, indian eggs and pork belly make regular appearances, along with a cake cabinet and a kids menu. It runs 7:30am to 3:30pm Tuesday to Sunday and is closed Mondays. The room is lively and sociable, which regulars come back for and which suits confident, easygoing dogs.

Getting there and parking

The cafe is at 220 Mount Barker Road, right in the middle of Aldgate Village, an easy stop off the Adelaide Hills Freeway. There is a car park behind the village shops, but it fills on weekend mornings, so a side-street park and a short walk is a realistic backup.

Close by with the dogs

Woorabinda Bushland Reserve, a short drive towards Stirling, has lovely walking trails, but note that dogs must be on-leash at all times there because the bushland is protected habitat. For proper off-lead time, Wright Road Fenced Dog Park at Stirling is a fully fenced park with shade, small creeks and a separate area for small dogs. For another dog-tolerant table nearby, Patch Kitchen and Garden is just up the road.

Worth knowing

Weekday mornings are the calm window. More options are on the South Australia dog-friendly restaurants guide and the Aldgate destination page.