Tag Archives: #pets

Dining Out With DOGS in Metro Phoenix AZ June 2019

Dining out with dogs in Metro Phoenix is just a “Fluff” story about taking my dogs out to eat. It all sort of officially started when my dog Louie got diagnosed with aggressive cancer. He was only given three – at most six months to live so I took him out to eat as often as possible because it was one of the few things he could enjoy. Instead of the 3-6 months Louie made it another seventeen months. Today my current dogs enjoy going out to eat.

Many restaurants in Metro Phoenix have patios but not all restaurant patios are dog friendly. It’s always BEST to call a restaurant and ask if it’s ok to dine on the patio with your dog before you do…..Because sometimes restaurants change their policies or they could be booked for a party. It’s also always BEST to dine at off times. It’s BEST to avoid as many other diners and other dogs as possible. Not everyone shares your love of dogs and some people also are allergic to dogs….Those are problems you need to avoid. The other potential problem is often dogs like to bark at other dogs and you might be asked to leave if that happens. So just make things as easy as possible and call the restaurant first and dine at off times.

There are rules to dining out with dogs. Your dog(s) must be by your side at all times. Dogs are not to sit on restaurant furniture or eat off restaurant plates. It’s a good idea to bring your own dog bowl for water for your dog. You must be aware that most food and drink that you consume can be potentially harmful or even TOXIC to your dog. It’s necessary to consult your veterinarian on food safe and unsafe lists. Usually a small amount of lean sauce free meat is a best choice. The other BIG ONE is that your dog is not as heat tolerant as you. Just like people all dogs have a different tolerance for heat. I’d say in general 90 degrees F and up is too hot for dining out with dogs. Maybe not for all dogs but most younger healthy dogs might be able to dine out in up to 90 degrees F BUT ONLY IN SHADED PATIOS….When in any doubt please leave your dog home.

We might be ready to dine out with dogs now!

I’m turning The Forking Truth over to my dogs now to tell their own story.

“We are going to try some Detroit Style Pizza at The Rec in Peoria AZ”

“The Rec is a small Pizzeria that serves Detroit Style Pizza.”

“Detroit Pizza is delicious pizza!” “It’s cut in squares with really crispy cheesy ends and a crisp buttery bottom with a doughy crust that is bubbly and not too heavy.”

“The plain is topped with a delicious blend of cheeses instead of sauce.” Then a rich chunky sweet tomato sauce goes on top of the cheese so the cheese doesn’t burn.”

“Our folks got a small plain and a medium with pepperoni and sausage.”

“Forking YES!!!!!!!!!!!” “Those crunchy cheesy ends are Forking Grrrrrrrrreat!” “We’ve” loved our first taste of Detroit Style Pizza!”

www.TheRecPizzeria.com

“June got so Forking Hot Fast.”

Just Forking Fast Food

“Our Folks don’t eat food from Burger King but they do take us out to eat there so we can can have something out to eat out.”

“It smells mighty tasty at the drive threw”!

“We scored a package just for us!”

“It was nice sharing Burger King today!” “I like the burger juice on your mouth.”

“Oh FORK!” “More Fast Food”

“It’s still FORKING HOT in Phoenix so we are in the Jack In The Box Drive Threw” “Our folks don’t eat Jack In The Box but they are treating us to something.”

“I’m always amazed that people in buildings toss food out the window”

“There’s no Jack in my box.” “but there’s a cheese burger.”

“Well that was Dining Out with DOGS in Metro Phoenix for June 2019.” “I don’t know if we will get to see you in July.” “We are hoping for a monsoon to cold things down.” “We do hope to see you soon!”

The Forking Truth
In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017

Dining Out With DOGS In Metro Phoenix May 2019


Dining out with Dogs in Metro Phoenix is just a “Fluff” story about my adventure going out to eat with my dogs. It all sort of started when my dog Louie got diagnosed with aggressive cancer and was given a prognosis of 3-6 months. I thought the nicest thing I could do for him was to take him out as often as possible so I did. Instead of the 3-6 months he made it 17 months more. Today I take my current dogs out to eat and they also enjoy it just as much as Louie did.

There are some things you need to know first about dining out with dogs. Many restaurants in Metro Phoenix do have patios but not all patios are dog friendly. For that reason and other reasons it is ALWAYS BEST TO CALL a restaurant before your visit and ask if it’s ok to dine with a dog(s). It is also ALWAYS BEST TO DINE AT OFF TIMES. You need to avoid as many other people and dogs as possible. Some people just don’t like dogs and others are allergic. You also want to avoid dogs barking at each other because you could be asked to leave.

Then there are some rules to dining out with dogs. Your dog must be close and by your side at all times. Dogs are NOT to sit on restaurant furniture and dogs are NOT to eat off restaurant plates. You should provide water and a water bowl from home for your dog. (collapsible water bowls are great) You also need to be aware that most food and drink you consume is not safe, healthy or can even be TOXIC to your dog. You need to consult your veterinarian on safe foods and food and drink to avoid. Usually a small amount of lean meat without sauce is recommended. Here in Metro Phoenix you must be aware that your dog is NOT as heat tolerant as you are. All dogs differ just as people have a different heat tolerance. I would guess that the maximin heat for healthy younger dogs might be up to 90 degrees BUT ONLY WITH SHADE. In the sun this would be too hot. Again all dogs have a different heat tolerance and hopefully you can judge well. If there are any doubts it’s better to leave your furry friend home.

Now I will turn The Forking Truth over to my dogs to tell their stories themselves.

“We are on our way to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery!”

“Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery is a Vietnamese Restaurant that specializes in serving Vietnamese baguette sandwiches.” “They offer many Vietnamese favorites like appetizers, noodle bowls, curry chicken but they DON”T SERVE PHO.”

“Today our folks got a grilled chicken noodle bowl and a BBQ Pork Banh Mi.”

“I can tell you both were delicious!”

“Both the pork and the chicken were tasty and tender!”

“We enjoyed ourselves at Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery!”

www.BanhMiBistroAZ.com

“We are on our way to Salad and Go …..sort of”

“Darn it!” “Salad and Go took out all the Forking Tables!”

“WOW the drive threw is really loaded up with cars today!”

“Looks like someone will order at the self serve computer.”

“I miss the old days not so long back when they used to hand out dog biscuits!” “Now we have to drive away and eat someplace else.”

“The mixed greens salad with walnuts and apple is pretty good with the chicken and only cost $5.74……what a deal!”

“DARN the extra shrimp we paid for didn’t make it to the seasonal salad with deli meat and mozzarella cheese.” “What we tried was fine.”

“We enjoyed the salads from Salad and Go!”

www.SaladandGo.com

“We’re on our way to The Bourbon Cellar in Scottsdale”

“The Bourbon Cellar in North Scottsdale specialty might be the ground in house prime filet burger that they serve on an apple cider bun and top with a wasabi deviled egg.”

“Look at it!” It’s glorious!”

“It’s a very large half pound burger so we are here to help eat it.”

“WOW I never had a ground prime filet burger before but it smells amazing!”

“In house prime filet burgers make me happy!”

“FORKING YUM!” “More please!”

“The patio is lush with a water feature too…….but really you want to come here for the prime filet burger……(p.s. If you can’t finish your burger please call me and I’ll be happy to assist)

“You have some burger juice on your face.” “We did really great at The Bourbon Cellar.”

www.TheBourbonCellar.com

“We are on our way to Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante in Glendale”

“Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante is an Italian Restaurant located in North Glendale.”

“Ummmmmmm The bread here is the most delicious in the area Ummmmmmmmm!”

“Someone got a Strawberry Chicken Salad……..well be eating mostly chicken…Ummmm..one of our favorites!”

“Our other human got an Italian Meat Sandwich on more delicious bread that comes with a side salad topped with amazing cheese.

“Delicious food and a pretty park-like patio too!”

“I can’t wait for my next bite!”

“We loved everything we tried at Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante!”

www.BottegaRistorante.com

“Well that was Dining Out With Dogs In Metro Phoenix for May 2019.” “I don’t know if we will get to see you next month because it’s getting hot in Phoenix but we hope to see you next month!”

The Forking Truth
In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017

Dining Out With DOGS in Metro Phoenix AZ April 2019

Dining Out with Dogs in Metro Phoenix is just a “Fluff” story about taking my dogs out to eat. It all sort of started when my dog Louie came down with aggressive cancer and was only given a 3-6 month prognosis. Louie was also elderly so he couldn’t a lot but he did enjoy going out to eat so I took him out to eat as often as I could. Instead of the 3-6 month prognosis he made it another 17 months. Today I take my current dogs out to eat and they enjoy it.

There are several things to know before you dine out with dogs. Many restaurants in Metro Phoenix have dog patios but not all patios are dog friendly. Some patios are certified Dog Friendly. Most patios are not. Either way it’s always BEST to call a restaurant before showing up with your dog because you never know if the patio is booked for a party as they often are. It also BEST to dine with dogs at OFF TIMES. The restaurant needs your business more at off times. It’s also BEST to avoid other people and other dogs. It’s BEST to avoid as many people as possible because some people don’t share your love of dogs and some people are allergic to dogs and you can be asked to leave. It’s also best to avoid other dogs because dogs like to bark at each other and if the dogs start barking you might be asked to leave. For the reasons mentioned and more DINE AT OFF TIMES and try to avoid as other many people and dogs as possible.

There are some rules for Dining Out With Dogs. Dogs are to be by your side at all times. Dogs are NOT to sit on restaurant furniture or to eat or drink from restaurant plates or bowls. You also need to know that most food and drink that you consume can be harmful or TOXIC to your furry friend. You must consult your veterinarian on a food friendly list and a foods to avoid list. Usually a lean sauce free piece of meat is safe. DOGS are NOT as heat tolerant as you. Over 90 degrees F is too hot to dine out with dogs. All dogs just like people have a different tolerance to heat. Not all but most younger healthy dogs might be able to tolerate up to 90 degrees F BUT ONLY IN SHADE. When in doubt it’s best to leave your dog at home.

We are ready to dine out with dogs now!

I said enough and I’m turning The Forking Truth over to my dogs.

“We are on our way to Pita Kitchen in the Arrowhead Section of Glendale.”

“Pita Kitchen is a fast casual Mediterranean Greek Restaurant in Arrowhead in Glendale.”

“Our male human companion got the two meat plate of gyro and beef meat.”

“Our female human companion got the Greek Salad with a Chicken Kabab.” “I really love that chicken.” “It’s delicious meaty and always moist!” “We wait a long time for it because they cook it real slow and low to order.” “It takes like 25 minutes to get it.” “Our male human companion always says that he’s getting the chicken kabab next time but never does.”

“We Forking love Pita Kitchen especially the Chicken Kabab!”

www.PitaKitchen.net

“WOO HOO!” “We are on our way to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery in Phoenix”

“Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery is a PHO FREE Vietnamese Restaurant that specializes in serving the Banh Mi sandwich.” “They serve about a dozen different varieties of the Banh Mi.” “They also serve many different appetizers, salads, noodle bowls, rice plates, curry and MORE!”

“Today our male folk got the yummy oh so tender and delicious grilled pork rice plate.”

“Our female companion got the chicken and egg roll noodle bowl.” “GOSH that chicken smells good!”

“Move it runt!” “I gotta get chicken first!”

“We FORKING Love Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery! “It’s one of our favorites!”

www.BanhMiBistroAZ.com

“We are on way to Doda’s Pizza in Glendale!”

“Doda’s pizza is a little family owned pizza shop in North Glendale.” ” They got brand new patio furniture with umbrellas so we are checking it out.”

“YUM!” “I smell a cheesesteak and a pepper pizza.”

“I’m Forking Starving.”

“I need some cheesesteak and pizza now!”

“We enjoyed ourselves at Doda’s Pizza!”

www.DodasPizza.com

“We are on our way to Culver’s in Phoenix.”

“Culver’s is a national group of fast food restaurants that is well known for their signature never frozen beef butter burgers, hand battered Icelandic Cod and daily made fresh frozen custard.”

“My folks came here because they were hoping to get the limited walleye pike special that normally runs threw lent to Easter.”

“They are Forking out of walleye so we got hand battered cod and butter burgers and one was for us!”

“Ummmmm butter burgers!’

“The hand battered cod isn’t bad but it’s not as great as the walleye.” “The cod is less meaty and seems to soak up the oil a little more…but is not bad.”

“Can’t wait for my next bite.”

“Maybe someone will drop something?”

“We enjoyed our butter burger and the hand battered cod at Culver’s.”

www.Culvers.com

“That was Dining Out With DOGS in Metro Phoenix for April 2019.” “We hope the weather holds out for us because we like going out to eat!”

“We hope to see you next month!”

The Forking Truth
In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017

Dining Out With DOGS in Metro Phoenix AZ March 2019

“WOO HOO!” “We are going out to eat!”

Dining out with dogs is just a “Fluff” story about taking my dogs out to eat. It all sort of started when my dog Louie came down with aggressive cancer and was only given a three-six months prognosis. He was elderly and couldn’t do a lot but he enjoyed going out to eat so I took him out to eat as often as I could and instead of the three-six months he made it another SEVENTEEN months. Today I take my current dogs out to eat and they also enjoy the experience.

There are a few things you need to know before you dine out with dogs. Many restaurants in Metro Phoenix have patios but not all patios are dog friendly. It’s ALWAYS BEST to call a restaurant before you show up and ASK if it’s ok to dine there with dogs. It is also BEST to dine at off times to avoid as many other people and dogs as possible because not all people like dogs and some are allergic to dogs. Other people might complain and ask you to leave. It’s also best to avoid other dogs because dogs are dogs and they often bark at each other so you could be asked to leave for that too. Avoid problems call the restaurant first and dine at off times.

There are some rules for dining out with dogs. Dogs are NOT to sit on restaurant furniture or to eat off restaurant plates. Dogs must be close to you and by your side at all times. Most food and drink that you consume is NOT safe and can be TOXIC to dogs. You must get a safe food list and foods to avoid list from your veterinarian. Usually a small amount of lean un-sauced meat is a safe bet for dogs. You might want to bring a collapsable water bowl for your dog too. You also need to know that dogs are NOT AS HEAT TOLERANT as you. All dogs have a different heat tolerance just like people but in general 90 degrees F and above is too hot for dining out with dogs. Not all but most healthy younger dogs can tolerate up to 90 degrees F BUT ONLY IN SHADE at 90 degrees. When in doubt it’s better to leave your dog home. Hopefully you know your dog’s heat tolerance.

Now we are ready to dine out with dogs!

The Forking Truth is being turned over to my dogs….I’ll take a break and let my dogs do the talking.

“We are on our way to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery in Phoenix”

“Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery is a Pho Free Vietnamese Restaurant that specializes in the Banh Mi Sandwich.” “Our folks and us have tried Banh Mi Sandwiches from several other Vietnamese Restaurants and we like Banh Mi Bistro’s Banh Mi Sandwiches the best!” “The fillings are always fresh and delicious.” “We don’t eat much of the bread but out folks say that the bread has a Nice crisp exterior and a soft fresh middle.”

Chicken Banh Mi

“Those Banh Mi Sandwiches smell Forking Good!”

“I love all the food I’ve tried from Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery.” “Today I’m loving Chicken Banh Mi and one of the Pork Banh Mi Sandwiches!”

“Ummmm everything is so good and I can’t wait for my next bite!”

“We always enjoy ourselves at Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery!”

www.BanhMiBistroAZ.com

“We are on our way to Burger King”

“Our folks sort of screwed us and took us to a Burger King Drive Threw.” “They don’t FORKING eat Burger King and are going someplace nicer.” “Burger King is ok but not the best for dogs.” “At least our folks sat with us and fed us on the nearby Safeway Patio.”

“It’s a Bacon King.”

“I bet Old Man Louie wouldn’t eat this burger if he was still around and then I’d get more to eat!” “He used to spit out most fast food but me and the little guy aren’t as picky.” “No one was like Louie”…….”He could tell the difference between ground beef from Costco and home ground beef”…..”That Louie wouldn’t eat the Costco ground beef”……”He was THAT picky.”

“WOW” “I wish I met Louie.” “He sure doesn’t sound like any dog I’ve ever met.” I’ll eat Costco Beef.” “What’s Costco beef anyway?” ” “I’m Forking hungry!”

“We’ll eat someplace better next time.”

www.BurgerKing.com

“We are on our way to Culver’s”

“Culver’s is considered to be a national fast food chain based in Wisconsin and growing in locations that are mostly in the mid-west.” “They are famous for their butter burgers that are never frozen, hand battered fish and fresh made frozen custard.” “We are here for their limited time special on hand battered Canadian Walleye Pike.”

“OOOOOOooooh yes…..smelling yummy!”

“They both got walleye pike but I smell more on this side of the table because he has THREE pieces.”

“That walleye pike has such a great crispy batter on it and the fish is so mild and meaty……I just love it!”

“We did Forking alright at Culver’s!”

www.Culvers.com

“We are on our way to The Twisted Italian in Peoria.”

“The Twisted Italian is an American Chicago-Style Italian Restaurant that also offers some Twisted Food such as Italian Rellenos and Pierogi.”

“Our male human companion got this Loaded Chicago Italian Beef Sandwich that smells incredible.” “His sandwich also came with a salad……I tried a crouton and and some lettuce and it was ok but I enjoyed the thin Angus Beef Best!” ($11.50)

“Our female companion got the Salmon Grilled Vegetable lunch special that comes with Angel Hair Pasta in garlic parmesan wine sauce.” ($10.50) “We thought it all was pretty tasty and I even ate zucchini!”

“Ummmm I’m ready for more Angus Beef!”

“That Angus beef sure does smell pretty good!”

“We got to eat pretty well at the Twisted Italian today.” “We had fresh roasted vegetables, croutons, salmon, some pasta and tasty Angus beef!”

www.EatTwisted.com

“Well that was Dining Out With DOGS in Metro Phoenix for March 2019.”

“We hope that you enjoyed and we hope to see you next month!”

The Forking Truth
In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017

Dining Out with DOGS in Metro Phoenix January 2019

“Woo Hoo!” “We are going out to eat!”

Dining out with dogs is just a “Fluff” story about taking my dogs out to eat. It all sort of started when my dog Louie was diagnosed with aggressive cancer. He was given only a 3-6 month diagnosis. Louie enjoyed going out to eat so I thought I’d take him out to eat as often as I could. Instead of the 3-6 months Louie made it 17 months more. Today I take my current dogs out to eat.

Many restaurants in Metro Phoenix do have patios for outdoor dining but not all patios are dog friendly. It’s always a best bet to call a restaurant in advance and ask them if it’s ok to dine there with your dog(s). Even if a restaurant is certified “Dog Friendly” it is still best to call first because the patio might be booked for a party. It is suggested to dine with dogs at “Off Times” to avoid other diners might not like dining with dogs and might complain. Other diners can also be allergic to dogs and also will complain. It’s also better to dine at “OFF TIMES” to avoid others that are dining with dogs because they might start barking at each other and everyone will be asked to leave. For these and other reasons just FORKING dine at off times to avoid as many other people and other dogs and potential problems as possible.

There are some rules for dining out with dogs. Dogs are to be by your side at all times. Dogs are NOT to sit on restaurant furniture or to eat off restaurant plates.

It’s IMPORTANT to know that MOST food and drink that you consume is NOT recommended for dogs and can cause health problems or can indeed be TOXIC. Please get a list of foods and drink to avoid from your veterinarian. In general usually a small piece of lean un-sauced meat is safe and is usually recommended for dogs. You should bring a water dish for your dog so he or she can have water. It’s very important to know that dogs are not as heat tolerant as you. Over 90 degrees is too hot to dine out with dogs. Not all but most healthy younger dogs can tolerate up to 90 degrees F but only in FULL SHADE. Dogs are like people and have different heat tolerances. Hopefully you know your dog well enough to notice their individual heat tolerance. When in doubt leave your dog home.

January started out very cold for desert standards. We had to wait till the second week to dine out with dogs.

“We are on our way to Pita Kitchen in Glendale AZ”

Pita Kitchen is a fast/casual Mediterranean restaurant in the Arrowhead section of Glendale Arizona.

I got my usual, the Greek Salad topped with a Chicken Kabab. Now I’ll take a break here and turn The Forking Truth over to my dogs.

“There’s plenty of juicy, tasty chicken for sharing!” says the little one from under the table. “Ummm my mouth is watering!”

“Our other human got the two meat plate with gyro meat and chicken.” “More food there for us to try.”

“I FORKING love this chicken from Pita Kitchen!” “It’s so juicy, plump and tasty!” “I just love it!”

“Big Woman is right.” “That chicken is really good!” “Much better than a lot of Grilled Chicken Kababs in the area!”

“We always enjoy ourselves at Pita Kitchen!”

www.PitaKitchen.net

“We are gonna see food at Oscar’s Pier 83 in Glendale”

“Yum!” “I got CRABS!”……..”Soft Shell Crabs!”

“I can go for some salad with ahi tuna shaped like a Forking Stingray too!” “Look at that fish!” “It looks like it got wings!”

“mmm I’m starving”

“We also like the crispy romaine, eggs are good and we also like ahi tuna….we are glad the portion is large so we get to eat more!”

“We enjoyed ourselves at Oscar’s Pier 83!”

www.OP83.com

“We are on our way to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery in Phoenix”

“We love going to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery in Phoenix.” “The food is always fresh, delicious and always comes in large portions.”

“Both of our human companions got rice plates.” “We love the meat on the rice plates!” “It’s always so juicy, flavorful and abundant!

Grilled Pork Rice Plate
Grilled Chicken Rice Plate minus the egg roll already

“The food is always delicious at Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery.” “We love coming here!”

www.BanhMiBistroAZ.com

Sadly Salad and Go is no longer an option

“Sadly Salad and Go is no longer a Dining Out With Dogs Option”. “Our location removed all the tables and the walk up window is now a Kiosk.” “We have a long list of happy memories there and really enjoyed the fresh healthy low priced fast quality salads.” “We still love the salads from Salad and Go but we can’t enjoy them there anymore.”

“Natural Organic Chicken…Not too Shabby” from Salad and Go

“Me and my old man Louie used to love our salads here!”

“We Forking miss you Salad and Go ……all that tasty food and dog biscuits too!”

“That was Dining Out With Dogs in Metro Phoenix for January 2019.”

“We hope you enjoyed and we hope to see you next month.”

The Forking Truth
In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017

Dining Out With DOGS in Metro Phoenix December 2018

“We are Going Out to Eat Yippie”

Dining out with dogs is just a fluff story about taking my dogs out to eat. It all sort of started when my dog Louie came down with cancer and was given only 3-6 monthsto live. He couldn’t do a lot back then but he enjoyed going out to eat so we took him out as often as possible. Instead of the 3-6 months he made it another 17 months. Today I take my current dogs out to eat. 

Most restaurants in Metro Phoenix do have patios but not all restaurant patios are dog friendly. It’s always best to visit a certified dog friendly patio and it’s also best to call before your visit to make sure the patio is available. I also recommend to go at off times to avoid other diners and other dogs for numerous reasons. Some of the reasons are not everyone wants to dine with dogs. Also some people are allergic to dogs. Sometimes dogs bark at each other. You could be asked to leave for these and other reasons. Remember it’s always best to call first and dine at off times with your dog(s).

There are some rules for dining with dogs. Your dog must be by your side at all times when you dine with dogs. Dogs are NOT to sit on restaurant furniture. Dogs are NOT to eat off restaurant plates. Most of the food and drink that you consume is not safe and might be toxic to your dog. You must get a list of dog friendly foods and foods to avoid from your veterinarian. It’s also important to know that your dog is not as heat tolerant as you are. Dogs absorb heat threw their paws and can’t sweat. 90 degrees F and above your dogs should stay home. Each dog is different (just like people) and do have different heat tolerance. Most younger healthier dogs might be able to tolerate up to or almost 90 degrees F BUT ONLY IN FULL SHADED PATIOS. Hopefully you know your dog well enough to figure out your dog’s heat tolerance. When there is any doubt it’s best to leave them home.
“We are on our way to Humble Pie in Glendale”
The first week of December was very cold for dessert standards so we had to wait for week two of December to dine out. We made it to our local Humble Pie. Humble Pie is an Arizonian Group of nine restaurants that specialize in serving pizzas with house made mozzarella cheese. They feature their own house made sausage but also offer the locally made Schreiner’s sausage. 

I ordered a Margherita for myself and a side order of grilled chicken for the dogs ($3.00).

Someone thought this smelled yummy!

“Ummmm I can’t wait to dig in”
“OH you FORKING RUNT!” ……”GET OUT!” “I’m getting first taste!”

“OK whatever you say Big Pretty Woman.”

“That’s better little boy now we can get along.”
“That Margherita is very thin….Good thing we got grilled chicken!”
“Our other human got the Humble Pie Signature Sausage Pizza.”

“We enjoyed ourselves at Humble Pie!”
www.HumblePieUSA.com 

“We are on our way to Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante in Glendale.” 

Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante is an Italian Restaurant that specializes in serving Neapolitan Pizzas,  House Made Pastas and more! They recently updated their menu so we thought we’d  give it a try.

“Why does she drink wine when there is beer?”
New Menu item Chicken Pizzaiola (Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella and Imported Prosciutto) 

“OMG look at all that chicken (Chicken Milanese)…she can’t eat all that we will have to help a lot!”

“Ummmm that’s some good chicken….I can’t wait for my next bite….I’m so hungry!”

#We need to sample the Chicken Pizzaiola too!”

“Everything was delicious and portions were super extra large!” 

“We enjoyed ourselves at Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante 

www.BottegaRistorante.com 

“We are on our way to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery in Phoenix”

Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery is a Vietnamese Casual Restaurant that is Pho Free and specializes in offering about a dozen different varieties of the Banh Mi Baguette Sandwich. They also offer almost anything other Vietnamese restaurants offer except for Pho. They offer delicious rice plates, noodle bowls, appetizers, salads, curry chicken, desserts and MORE!

Today my husband went with a BBQ Pork Banh Mi that I forgot to photo and today I went with the Curry Chicken with Rice.

“The food is always so tasty that it can make even dogs smile.”

“We LOVE going to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery!”

www.BanhMiBistroAZ.com

“Well that was Dining Out With Dogs in Metro Phoenix for December 2018.” “We hope you enjoyed and we also Wish You a Happy New Year and Hope to see you next month!”

The Forking Truth
In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017

Dining Out with Dogs in Metro Phoenix October 2018

 

WOO HOO We are going out to eat!

Dining out with dogs is just a “Fluff” story about taking my dogs out to eat. It sort of started with my dog Louie who was diagnosed with aggressive cancer. I wanted to take him out to eat as often as I could because he enjoyed it. Instead of his three-six month prognosis he made it another 17 months maybe from going out to eat……..Now my current dogs enjoy going out to eat.

It’s important to know that not all patio dining is Dog Friendly. You need to see a dog friendly sign or certification posted.

Or call the restaurant you want to dine at and ask if it’s ok to bring your furry friend. It’s ALWAYS BEST to call the restaurant first. The patio could be booked for a party….you never know!

It’s ALWAYS BEST!!!!! to dine at off times to avoid all conflict you might endure. Other diners might not share your love for dogs and do complain. Some people are allergic. Other people with dogs might start barking and you all will be asked to leave. AVOID other diners and dine at off times.

There are rules for Dining Out With Dogs.

Dogs are not allowed to sit on restaurant furniture.

Dogs must be by your side at all times.

Dogs are not to eat off restaurant plates.

It’s also important to know that MOST FOOD YOU EAT AND DRINK IS NOT SAFE FOR YOUR DOG! Please consult your veterinarian for the safe and non safe list of foods for dogs.

In general a small amount of lean meat without sauce is usually your best bet. You also might want to bring a collapsible water bowl for your friend.

It’s also important to know that your dog is not as heat tolerant as you. 90 degrees and over is too hot for your dog to dine out.   My dogs can do (at this time it might change at some point) up to 90 degrees F BUT IN SHADE ****NOT WITH SUN *****FULL SHADE as shade makes a difference.

Cool weather finally hit Phoenix and we made a quick stop to our favorite gourmet fast food place…..Salad and Go. ( a local group of restaurants)  Salad and Go doesn’t have a dining room and is drive threw or just walk up to the window. They do offer a dog friendly patio and sometimes hand out dog biscuits the doggy customers. For people they offer breakfast, about ten varieties of natural organic salads, wraps and smoothies.

Today I got the Seasonal Harvest Salad with Chicken.

The Dogs enjoyed some Chicken and some Sweet Potatoes from my salad.

They also enjoyed some Shrimp from my husband’s salad.

“We enjoyed eating at Salad and Go!”

www.SaladandGo.com

“Today we are on our way to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery in North Phoenix”.

BMBVE is a Pho Free Vietnamese Restaurant that specializes in the Banh Mi Sandwiches. They offer close to a dozen different sandwiches so there is one for everyone’s taste. They also offer various noodle bowls, rice plates, desserts and lots of tasty appetizers….several desserts too!

Today I went with the Chef’s Special Chicken Curry.

Today I got it with rice but I have gotten it with the Vietnamese Baguette before.

My husband got the BBQ Pork Banh Mi Today.

We all enjoyed ourselves at Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery in Phoenix.

www.BanhMiBistroAZ.com

“We are on our way to Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante in Glendale AZ”

Bottega is an Italian Restaurant in North Glendale AZ. They specialize in Neapolitan Pizzas, hand made pastas and other Italian foods.

Today I went with one of the seasonal specials…The Chicken and Strawberry Salad.

It was a generously sized salad with lots of fresh greens and lots of chicken to share.

“WOO-HOO!” “I’m getting me lots of chicken!”

“Move the FORK over Runt” “Ladies first” “I’m getting the Forking Chicken before YOU!”

My husband got the Pompei Panini. It’s made on house baked bread and is filled with Cotto Ham, Salami Parma, Provola Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato and Onion and comes with a mixed greens salad…..

It’s a really big and also a nice meal for only $11.95 (***price subject to change)

“One Sandwich for YOU and one sandwich for ME!”

We decide to share a dessert (but not with dogs because chocolate is harmful to dogs).

Our server called it a Semifreddo but I don’t it was…because the last time I had a semifreddo at Bottega it looked like this and was more like ice cream mousse……

but whatever it was it was delicious and more like ice cream embedded with Italian cookies and got covered with this rich chocolatey sauce where some of stayed saucy and some of it magically hardened.

Whatever it was the dessert was delicious and everyone enjoyed themselves.

www.BoteggaRistorante.com

“We hope you enjoyed Dining Out with Dogs in Metro Phoenix October 2018.”

“We hope to see you next month!”

The Forking Truth

In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017

 

 

 

 

 

Dog Friendly Patios in Metro Phoenix Arizona

 

Not all but most many restaurants in Metro Phoenix Arizona have patios. NOT ALL PATIOS are Dog Friendly but more and more are these days. Even if a patio is certified “Dog Friendly” It’s a good idea to dine with your furry friend at off times to avoid conflict with humans or other dogs that don’t share your love for your furry friends. Some people are allergic to dogs and there are those who just hate dogs and will complain. Even though your dog(s) are well behaved another dog might start barking at your dogs and you might be asked to leave. These are just some of the reasons why dining with Dogs at off times is suggested. There also are some rules to Dining Out with Dogs. Your Dog must be by your side at all times. Dogs are not allowed to sit on restaurant furniture and are NOT allowed to eat off restaurant plates. Another thing to be aware of is that most food and drink that you consume might be unhealthy, harmful or even TOXIC to your dog..You MUST get the list of safe and non safe foods from your veterinarian. Usually a small amount of lean meat without sauce is usually a safe bet. In Phoenix there are months when it’s too hot and DANGEROUS to dine out with your dog. Dogs can’t tolerate as much heat as you can. All dogs are different (just like people) some are more heat tolerant than others. My dogs can tolerate up to a SHADED 90 degrees F. IN THE SHADE. Your dog(s) might NOT! It’s also a good idea to bring your own water bowl so your dog can have a beverage too. OK now that we got that out of the way…..

Here are just a few of the Restaurants in Metro Phoenix I found to be Dog Friendly.

Connected to Pomo Pizzeria in Scottsdale used to be Forno Fabri. It’s now Luna Gelateria. You can get a really great Gelato or Sorbetto and enjoy a little time with your furry friend.

Cucina Tagliani (Glendale & Peoria) is certified Dog Friendly. They offer a covered patio with misters and heaters. Depending on the server you get you dog might get served a bowl of water.

Red’s Bar and Grill in Litchfield is Dog Friendly.

Tacos Tequila Whiskey in the Arcadia part of Phoenix is Dog Friendly.

Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery in Phoenix isn’t officially Dog Friendly but they have a secret folding table that they will set up for regulars that come with a dog (or two). I do note when we dine with dogs we always dine at off times when there are very few people there.

The Twisted Italian in Peoria has two tables for Dining with Dogs. They are listed on www.BringFido.com

Humble Pie ……Glendale (I believe this area is really Phoenix but is listed as Glendale because it used to be…The zip codes changed three times since I’ve been near this area) This Humble Pie is officially Dog Friendly with a shaded patio with heaters and fans.

PNPK Restaurant in Scottsdale is Officially Dog Friendly and serves individual bowls of water and biscuits to well behaved dogs.

Sosoba in down town Phoenix is Dog Friendly.

Pita Kitchen is not officially Dog Friendly. But we asked if we could dine with dogs and they gave us the ok. I do note that we always dine at off times when nobody else is on the Patio.

Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante in Glendale is Officially Dog Friendly. *******On Sundays they serve Sunday Brunch with live music on the patio and the music is too loud for dogs so while I do recommend the restaurant for humans I don’t recommend for dogs only during Sunday Brunch) Dog Friendly every day. They offer a nice covered patio with heaters and it looks like misters in the ceiling.

Dogs are Welcomed with Dog Biscuits at Salad and Go in Glendale.

Not officially Dog Friendly but there are four tables for dining with dogs at Leo’s Island BBQ in Peoria.

Shake Shack in Scottsdale is Dog Friendly. They even have a Dog Food Menu and sell Doggie Shirts.

Scottsdale Beer Company in Scottsdale is Dog Friendly.

Oscar’s Pier 83 in Glendale offers a Dog Friendly Patio.

Rhythm and Wine in North Scottsdale is Dog Friendly. I read on website that they offer a Yappy Hour on Sundays around 3:00.

JJ’s Deli in Scottsdale is Dog Friendly.

AJ’s Patio in Glendale is Dog Friendly.

These are only a few of the Dog Friendly Patios in Metro Phoenix.

Everything is subject to change. Restaurants close or change ownership and often drop being Dog Friendly. I had SEVERAL restaurants go from Dog Friendly to NOT Dog Friendly…….Again. Everything is subject to change.

The Forking Truth

In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017

 

 

 

 

 

Dining Out with Dogs in Metro Phoenix AZ June 2018

 

“We are on our way to Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante  in Glendale AZ”

Dining out with dogs in metro Phoenix is just a “Fluff” story about taking my dogs out to eat. It sort of got started when my dog Louie came down with cancer and I wanted to take him out to eat as often as possible because he enjoyed it very much. Today my current dogs enjoy going out to eat. You do need to know that many restaurants on Metro Phoenix do have patios but not all patios are dog friendly. You really SHOULD CALL a restaurant in advance of dining and ask if it’s ok to bring your dog. Some restaurants suddenly turn non-dog friendly and sometimes the patio is already booked for a party. IT”S ALWAY BEST to avoid other people and other dogs. You never know if a person is allergic or just hates dogs and that person can spoil your dining plans. You also never know how your dog or someone else’s dog will react….It’s possible that the dogs will start barking at each other and YOU MIGHT BE ASKED TO LEAVE. Avoid trouble and dine out with dogs at off times. More restaurant really do need your money at off times and more of them are likely to welcome you and your dog during the lean times of the day. There are a few rules for dining out with dogs. Your dog(s) MUST be by your side at all times. Dogs are NOT to sit on restaurant furniture or to eat off restaurant plates. You also NEED TO BE AWARE that MOST of the food and drink you consume can be hazardous or even TOXIC to your dog. You must consult your veterinarian on a food friendly list and a list of foods to avoid. Usually lean un-sauced meat is a safe bet.  Here in Metro Phoenix IT IS TOO LATE by now to dine out with dogs because dogs can NOT TOLERATE as much heat as you do. Your dogs may differ from mine but I’d say under 90 degrees F and ONLY IN SHADE are the top degrees that might be safe to dine out with dogs. At the end of May we had cooler weather at lunch time as it was only in the 80’s so my dogs got to dine out at Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante in Glendale AZ.

“Here I am at Bottega…I’m hungry what will I eat?”

“Maybe if I look Forking Cute and rest my head on someone’s leg I’ll get more food?’

“That FORKING RUNT is such a suck up!”

“Smells like we got a Sicilian Tuna Salad and a Sausage Panini.”

“We enjoyed ourselves at Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante.

www.BoteggaRistorante.com

Most of June was too hot to dine out with Dogs but then came Monsoon Season and we had one day around the middle of the month that was nice.

“We are on our way to Cucina Tagliani in Glendale AZ”

Cucina Tagliani in Glendale Arizona has been in business over twenty five years. They serve casual American/Italian Food. They are a little different from other similar American Italian Restaurants and do offer many healthy options and many vegetable dishes. Cucina Tagliani happens to have an official Dog Friendly Certified Patio.

“This is how I wait for the food!”

“This is how I wait for the food!”

Here’s what we ordered. I had the Strawberry and Goat Cheese Salad that comes with Chicken and my husband had the Papa’s Platter (sausage lasagna, two cheese and spinach manicottis, and veal parmesan).

They made my salad extra good today…(yeah!) Everything is fresh and tasty. The strawberries are super sweet too.

The dogs are very happy and did some celebrating under the table.

They just have to wait to be served.

“We did very well at Cucina Tagliani!”

www.CucinaTagliani.com

That was Dining out with Dogs in Metro Phoenix for June 2018.

Dine In with Dogs at Home Now. It’s too Hot to Dine Out with Dogs in Metro Phoenix……(unless we get a monsoon!)

We hope to see you soon!

The Forking Truth

In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017

Dining out with DOGS in Metro Phoenix AZ May 2018

Dining out with dogs is just a “Fluff” story of my adventures dining out with my dogs. It sort of started when my dog Louie was diagnosed with cancer. They said probably 3 months so I thought I’d take him out to eat as much as possible since he looked forward to it. Dining out was among the few things he could enjoy. Louie made it 17 months more. Any ways-  You need to know that many restaurants in Metro Phoenix have patios but not all patios are dog friendly. It is always best to call a restaurant and ask if it is ok to visit with your furry friend before showing up. You never know if the patio is already booked for a party or if the restaurant suddenly turned to not accepting dogs. (that has happened to me) It is also BEST to avoid as many people as possible so I strongly recommend to dine with dogs at off times for a number of reasons. One is that the restaurant needs your business more at off times and is more likely to welcome you and your furry friend. Two is obvious….It’s best to avoid as many people as possible because some people don’t share your love for dogs or just might be allergic. It’s also best to avoid other doggy diners because dogs might start barking at each other…like dogs normally do and you might be asked to leave. AVOID potential problems and dine at off times. There are a few rules for dining with dogs. Your dog(s) is suppose to be close to you and by your side at all times. Dogs are NOT suppose to sit on restaurant furniture and are NOT suppose to eat off restaurant plates. You also need to be aware that most of the food and drink that you consume can be harmful or even TOXIC to your dog. You must consult a veterinarian on safe and harmful foods for dogs. For the most part plain lean sauceless meat is usually a safe choice for your dog. You might also want to bring your own dog bowl for water. Now that we got all that out of the way I guess you are almost ready to dine out with dogs!

Phoenix is heating up fast so any day could be the last day of Dining out with Dogs. I think for my dogs we can tolerate up to 90 degrees only if it is in the shade. It is VERY IMPORTANT to remember that your dog is NOT AS HEAT TOLERANT AS YOU. Dogs can’t sweat. Dogs also absorb lots of heat threw their paws. Your dog can die if you expose your dog to too much heat.

We had a cool snap recently and made it out to Humble Pie. They have a really nice $10.99 2 course lunch special (salad or soup and a pizza). This is also an official dog friendly patio and is listed on www.BringFido.com

We splurged for Tempura Green Beans because we had a generous $10.00 off coupon off a $25. or more purchase.

These Green Beans are really tasty…Even the dijon sauce on he side is tasty…..Dogs love the Green Beans.

I got the Strawberry Gorgonzola Salad with Pecans and the Margherita Pizza made with house made cheese.

My husband got the minestrone soup with Humble Pie Sausage and the Chicken Parmesan Pizza.

The dogs smell the food and both dogs decide they prefer the dishes my husband has the better options.

The dogs were happy with the chicken fingers and a little cheese. (I note that not all dogs are cheese tolerant…)

“We did alright at Humble Pie.”

www.HumblePieUSA.com

Wow Phoenix is really heating up. Got lucky and had a cooler day….It’s going up to around 90 today but if we do an early lunch it’s only around 80 in the shade.

“We are on our way to Cucina Tagliani in Glendale AZ”

Cucina Tagliani is an American Italian Restaurant that serves up all the usual American Italian Fair and also many healthy options with lots of vegetables that you won’t find at other places. Where else will you find Spaghetti Squash Lasagna and Grilled Chicken Parm? They offer at least a half dozen different vegetable side orders and offer whole wheat and gluten free pasta. They also offer a certified dog friendly patio and depending on what server you get your dog(s) might get their own bowls of water.

Today I got something I never ordered before. The chicken wrap…It’s like a big salad in a spinach tortilla with grilled moist chicken breast with a side. I thought the fresh fruit option was very thoughtful because fries or onion rings are too heavy with a wrap. A salad is an option but I don’t want salad with a salad filled wrap. (romaine was not from Yuma) My husband got a spicy pepperchini pasta with chicken.

Both dogs are very excited about the food.

“We usually get lots of food at Cucina Tagliani.”

www.CucinaTagliani.com

“We are on our way to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery in Phoenix!”

We had a cooler than expected weekend recently and got to go out to Banh Mi Bistro Vietnamese Eatery. This is a Vietnamese restaurant that serves many of your Vietnamese favorites expect for Pho. This is a PHO FREE Restaurant. The Specialty here are the Banh Mi Sandwiches. A Banh Mi Sandwich starts with Vietnamese Style Baguettes made with Rice and Wheat Flour. The Vietnamese baguette has a crispy exterior and a soft middle. The different varieties of Banh Mi include fresh cilantro, pickled radish and carrots, jalapeños and house made aioli.

Today I went with the Curry Chicken with baguette and my husband went with the BBQ Pork Banh Mi.

Wow I have more food than I can eat and it’s all good!

The dogs are pleased (to say the least) with the selections.

www.BanhMiBistroAZ.com

That was Dining Out with Dogs in Metro Phoenix for May 2018. We don’t know if it will be cool enough to dine out soon but we hope to see you all again!

The Forking Truth

In Memory of Louie 5-5-2001 – 3-3-2017