Neighborhood Notes

A reader asks...
"I have a "burning" issue for Pearl dogs and their humans---where can we go with our dogs and get coffee?? The Pearl needs a coffee walk-up window! I have a 4 month old pug puppy and I do not want to tie him up to go inside somewhere to get coffee. I tried carrying him in Starbucks and they had a fit. I prefer the local places like Via Delizia and Sip and Kranz, but neither was open that morning (I was out early). Anyway, I just emailed Sip and Kranz about what their dog policy is and whether they would consider a walk-up window or not. I think it's a great idea--what do you think? Or do you know of any dog-friendly (inside) coffee-serving establishments in the Pearl?"

Before I could 'sniff around' for answers, the reader wrote back:

" I got a response from Sip and Kranz! They said dogs aren't allowed for the most part but they make exceptions--they have regulars who bring theirs in, as long as the dog stays next to the owners' feet or the owner is carrying him/her. Sounds good to me. Hooray for Sip and Kranz! (or maybe I should say Arf!)"

First of all, there are several Pearl establishments that make exceptions for regulars. Unfortunately, this puts the establishment in a poor position if they are caught. They don't really have a leg -- or even four to stand on -- so they have to ask the regular and pet to leave. I'm sure there are fines to boot. There is also the matter of customers who disapprove of pets in these establishments. Is it worth it for a business to bend the rules for one customer if it causes them to lose another? I talked to several coffee shop owners and although they are 'pet friendly' the law is simply unavoidable. Paws down, it's just against the rules to take your dog into a coffee shop. As a regular, you're not doing your favorite establishment any favors when you take in your pet. You're asking them to break the law and risk losing other customers to accomodate you and your furry friend.

In short, taking your dog into restaurants, bars and coffeehouses is not a good idea, but as the reader points out, it's equally bad to tether your dog to a table and leave them while you go inside for coffee. In fact, the moment that the leash leaves your hand, your dog is considered "at large" and "out of your control" in the eyes of the law. In other words, tethering your dog is not within the scope of the leash law. It also raises livability concerns for folks that have to listen to howling, barking dogs.

If you pair up with a friend and walk your dogs, there are several spots to sit and enjoy your morning coffee with your dog:

Covered

1. The lobby of Ecotrust (adjacent to World Cup Coffee)
2. The lobby of the Gadsby (adjacent to The Acorn Cafe) at 13th and Hoyt.
3. The loading dock/patio of Urban Grind (14th and Johnson in the Marshall Wells Lofts)
4. The covered seating area adjacent to Peet's Coffee in the Brewery Blocks
5. The lobby of the Ace Hotel is a great place to bring your furry friend. (The lobby opens into Stumptown Coffee.) It's not technically in the Pearl, but it's a great dog-friendly place to enjoy a cup of coffee.

Patio seating

1. Sip & Kranz patio on Jamison Square
2. Via Delizia's patio facing Tanner Springs Park.
3. The patio area by Boyd's Coffee (in the Gregory)
4. Starbucks (any location)

Until someone actually builds a walk up window or sets up a coffee cart, pairing up for walks is our only real solution - other than making your coffee at home.