By Isla McGraw
Just like dogs needs a walk, Westenders need a pick me up, and the West End is the perfect place to get two for the price of one.
There’s no shortage of dog-friendly spots in this neck of the woods, where you can enjoy your morning coffee, tuck into a tasty fry-up, or wind down with a hearty meal and glass of red.
Kennoway Coffee
Nestled in the heart of Thornwood, why not start your morning off with a brew expertly crafted by the owner Waseem. Now I must admit, as delicious as the coffee is, it’s the pastries that catch my eye every time, with a display of doughnuts filled with white chocolate and pistachio, raspberry jam, and banoffee to cinnamon buns drizzled with icing.
You can pair your coffee with something sweet, or if you’re looking for a savoury bite you can choose from a range of toasties.
Us dog owners know just how stressful it can be to navigate a busy coffee shop with your pup and if you have a dog like mine who can be anxious and overwhelmed then Kennoway Coffee is the perfect place for you both to relax.
You won’t regret adding this peaceful haven as a stop-in on your travels.
The Hyndland Café
Owners Stewart and Kim know all too well what it’s like to crave a morning roll while out with your furry friend.
That’s why they’ve made their outdoor space welcome to pets, so you can enjoy your breakfast while your pooch delves into theirs.
This family run café can’t do enough for its customers, whether that be their usual clientele or the four-legged kind, they provide excellent customer service and fabulous food—I’m sure Wallace would agree.
A visit to the Hyndland Café has become our Sunday treat where I relish a roll with black pudding and potato scone and Wallace scoffs down a square sausage and scrambled egg.
Cuku is a one-stop shop offering a full range of provisions from Italian pastas and oils to household essentials and pet food.
While your browsing, you can treat yourself to a pick me up coffee and toastie, the tuna melt with capers, spring onions, red onions, and cheddar is definitely a satisfying pick.
Or peruse the deli counter for an overwhelming choice of pastries baked fresh every day in-house, cheese and meats, and pre-made meals.
I knew Wallace would approve the minute he was offered a treat by the attentive staff.
This brunch spot transforms in the evening to offer up dishes like rib-eye steak with rosemary potatoes, spiced pumpkin-stuffed butternut squash, and an irresistible array of pizzas, all washed down with your drink of choice.
Cottiers
Formerly a church, this timeless building stands tall and proud at the top of Hyndland Street.
You can choose from the traditional indoor bar or the expansive beer garden to enjoy your drink as your pooch rests. The menu features a modern interpretation of traditional classics while the drinks list offers a broad selection of beer, spirits, classic cocktails, cider and wine.
We started off with an Old Mout Cider and a pint of Moretti but it didn’t take long before our attention turned to the food. I was in the clear as my choice of steamy mussels with bread to soak up the delicious white wine sauce didn’t seem to appeal to Wallace—if only my partner was so lucky.
I saw Wallace’s mouth drool as he eyed up Josh’s bangers and mash and it wasn’t long before a dog bowl was brought over, and the portion had been split in half—what we do for our dogs.
It’s fair to say all three of us left with full bellies. Whether it’s time for a walk or you’re inviting your dog along on date night, these five locales are the perfect way to enjoy the best the West End has to offer without your pooch missing out on all the fun.
