The remote “solopreneur” lifestyle is full of wondrous perks; wearing yoga leggings as my “fancy pants” ranks high on the list. Having the flexibility to enjoy summer sunshine while getting work done is another big bonus. Not being tied to an office means I can grab my laptop and head to a cafe nearby home—or even better, near the beach!
Leaving a sad-eyed pup behind, however, can be a bit of a bummer. When the weather’s nice and I’ve got the itch to work from a sunny spot, I leash up my dog and bring him along. He appreciates being out in the world just as much as I do, and the change of scenery does us both good. The very best part of being the boss of me is the freedom to declare every day a “Bring My Dog to Work Day”.
Next time the siren song of the sun calls you, grab Fido and head to one of these nine Portland dog and work-friendly spots:
The Green Dragon
There aren’t many places in the world where you can enjoy a quonset hut brewpub with your dog, so here’s your chance. Order up some pub grub and settle in for a work session with your pup by your feet.
Doggie Details:
• Patio seating with umbrellas
• 1 or 2 outdoor outlets
Floyd’s on Morrison
If you can snag one of the few small dog-friendly tables out front, Floyd’s is a solid spot to work from. There’ll be traffic zipping down Morrison, but a breakfast burrito in hand and your pooch by your feet more than makes up for it.
Doggie Details:
• Sidewalk seating
• No outdoor outlets
Rocking Frog Cafe
This cozy cafe built into an old Craftsman bungalow wins for Portland-style charm. The small backyard patio is a quiet place to bring Fido and get ‘er done.
Doggie Details:
• Back patio seating with a covered gazebo; no outlets
• One table on the front porch has an outlet
Radio Room
You’re welcome to order a coffee at Radio Room, but they also offer a full bar, craft cocktails, and extensive menu to keep you fueled while you work.
Doggie Details:
• Large lower patio with umbrellas; no power outlets
• Small upper patio has a half-awning and one power outlet; no minors allowed
RonToms
A favorite with dogs and dog owners alike, RonToms boasts an amazing outdoor patio, full bar and great happy hour.
Doggie Details:
• Back patio with both a covered area and umbrellas
• Outlets in the covered area
Lucky Labrador Brew Pub
One of the classic Portland dog-friendly spots, you can almost always count on a few dogs chillin’ on the patio at any of the Lucky Lab pub locations. With a large, fully-covered patio area you’ll be shaded from the sun and covered if it starts to rain. Classic bar food and a full selection of drinks.
Doggie Details:
• Large covered front patio
• No outdoor outlets
Laurelhurst Cafe
This homestyle cafe with good food and free coffee refills makes for a solid remote workspot.
Doggie Details:
• Small side patio with umbrellas
• No outdoor outlets
St. Johns Coffee Roasters
Both your visual and olfactory senses will be delighted by what is probably the only combination coffee roaster/flower shop in the Portland area. Visit during their weekday Grumpy Hour (6-8am) for 50 cents off your order.
Doggie Details:
• Cafe tables out front with umbrellas
• No outdoor outlets
About the Author
Jenn Sturiale is the founder of Mutt Meditation.
Responses
Sniff cafe didn’t make the list?