Machine
97 Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 4TW
Machine is not just a coffee shop (well that’s a good start), it's a coffee shop and a bike shop. Now, I agree this is not a new concept (Look Mum No Hands opened in 2010 and a few others since), but this coffee/bike-repair/anything-bike-related shop is one of my favourite spots to grab a coffee on-the-go or to stay.
It’s situated only a few minutes away from Tower Bridge, Borough Market and the beautifully designed Jam Factory.
The morning the sun shines through the entire shop, making it a warm and bright place to start your day or have a spot of breakfast or lunch. I love their sandwiches! Machine doesn't have a huge selection, however, I think I've tried them ALL and they are delicious. The coffee beans come from Monmouth Coffee and the staff have been well trained so each cup is perfect.
They of course also welcome dogs and have dog biscuits on the counter for their lucky four-legged-clients; my dog Bernard knows exactly where they are, so he stands at the corner of the counter staring at me with one paw in the air and great expectations.
The Sugar Pot
248 Kennington Park Rd, London SE11
The Sugar Pot is situated near Oval Tube Station, right in front of Kennington Park. It's part of a newly rejuvenated strip of road, and being right by my local park, this makes the Sugar Pot my absolute favourite.
Pretty much everything on their lovely menu is sourced locally, included the gorgeous breads and organic cakes. The shop itself is cozy & warm with comfortable wooden tables and chairs. However the warmest elements of this wonderful coffee shop are the owners, siblings’ Charlotte and Dominic are so welcoming and friendly.
I particularly like their smoked salmon and Brie open sandwich. I always thought cheese and fish can make for an odd combo, but try it, it's delicious! Their organic coffees are always lovely, elegantly served in handsome miss-match cups and saucers.
Your dog is welcome of course, and being just across the street from Kennington Park this makes it the perfect place to grab a coffee-to-go on your way to throwing the ball, or for well-deserved break after a muddy session with your best friend. This family-owned business opened his doors only a few months ago and it's already busy, and so it should.
Tierra Verde
48 Webb's Rd SW, London SW11 6SF
Just off the Northcote Road, this is a lovely local coffee shop/ Tapas Bar I love to go to when I have time to spare between clients. The lovely staff, Pepi and George know everyone there and it has a real community feel. People who work from home go there for a (well deserved) break, and a chat with one of their neighbours or with Pepi and George themself. I also love to relax for a while and look at all the cool dogs going in and out of the West Side Vet practice just across the street.
They have shelves full of gorgeous products for you to take home. 90% of their products are from Spain, from saffron to wines, and from anchovies and sun blushed tomatoes. However they also have Sicilian Olive Oil (on tap!), London made Chilli Chutney, locally handmade soaps, and colourful plates and bowls from Fez, Morocco.
Tierra Verde also serve and stock Monmouth coffee so no wonder I was drawn to this place. I'm a creature of habit so I always have the same, Jamon Iberico, Manchego, tomato and sea salt on sourdough, served with a copious side of olives, and a latte. If I feel my daily walk between clients allows it I will indulge in a carrot cake, with of course another coffee.
Fuckoffee
163 – 167 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3UW
On Bermondsey High Street, this is on of my absolute favourite. Coffee there is always spot on.
I love walking along Bermondsey High Street, I feel on holiday when I'm there. Maybe it’s because most of this High Street shops and restaurants are dog friendly, so that obviously makes it one of my favourite Londonneighbourhoods.
Like all the others above, this coffee shop is very dog friendly, so here is another great place to hang out and relax with your best friend. You could sit at one of the few tables outside, they have an impressive view of the shard. However with all the historical streets around the corner, you could also go for a walk towards the river, you’ll feel like you are in a Dickensian novel, but with an organic coffee form Papua New Guinea in your hand.
They have lovely sandwiches, pastries and cakes, as well as soups and lovely vegetarian options. You can also find healthy juices, but really you have to go to Fuckoffee for their coffee. And if you are easily offended, do not; I repeat do not go on their online shop.
Please share more of your favourite dog-friendly places with me in the comments section below, so I can go and check them out. Thanks.
Oli Juste Rope Lead
£30.00
London Lead Black
£45.00
Ecohound Poo Bags
240 Bags - £10.50
Yup You Stink! Wipes
£2.99
Here is another fun recipe to try for your dogs during this hot weather.
You may remember a few years back a lovely client called Jeremy shared with me his recipes for making lovely Bobby some dog friendly Ice Cream.
We have put it together for you to have a go yourself. Don’t forget to tag me on instagram with your creations @olijustedogtrainer. I love to see what you’re up to with your furry friends.