La Cabra Mexican Mornington

La Cabra Mexican is a lively cantina at 111 Main Street in the thick of Mornington's dining strip, and it makes a point of welcoming dogs: the front footpath and outdoor seating is where leashed dogs settle while the tacos and margaritas come out.

The dog setup

Dogs are welcome in the front outdoor and footpath seating, on lead beside your table with room to lie down. Staff are happy to bring a water bowl on request, which earns its keep on warm Peninsula afternoons. Only assistance dogs go inside; regular dogs stay in the outdoor area.

On the plate

The kitchen runs a strong gluten-free Mexican menu: fresh guacamole, pork and prawn tacos, enchiladas, fajitas and cauliflower hot wings, with loaded fries and churros for the table. Margaritas are the house drink, with a happy-hour crowd that lifts the volume in the early evening. Doors open from midday Monday to Friday and from 11am on weekends, trading to 9 or 10pm.

Getting there and parking

Main Street parking is limited at peak dining times. The side streets such as Albert Street and the public car parks nearby are easier, and they put you a short walk from the tables.

Close by with the dogs

For off-leash time, the Pine Avenue Reserve and Civic Reserve fenced dog parks are both a short drive from the strip. Beach options close in too: Fossil Beach is a rugged local spot where dogs are welcome off-leash, while sections of the Mornington foreshore are on-leash only, so read the signage. Under shire rules, dogs go back on lead within 20 metres of playgrounds and picnic areas. If coffee comes first, Commonfolk Mornington is dog friendly. More on the Mornington guide.