2 dog bars in region on USA Today’s 10 best list for 2024

Dogs living on the Gulf Coast have something to wag about. St. Petersburg and Sarasota are home to dog bars ranking among the 10 best in the country, according to USA Today.

Dog Bar in St. Petersburg and Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar in Sarasota both made it onto the USA 10 best dog bars list for 2024, which is determined by popular vote after a panel of experts submits nominees and editors whittle it down to a list of finalists. The winners were announced July 3.

Coming in at No. 7 on the list was Dog Bar in St. Pete, noted for its selection of 31 beers and fenced-in spaces for dogs and people to congregate. Located in the Grand Central District, the sports bar offers a full bar for those 21 years and up as well as food trucks. Dog Bar opened in 2016 at 2300 Central Ave.

Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar in Sarasota came in at No. 10 on the list. It was celebrated for its indoor and outdoor dog parks, tucked in the city's Rosemary District. Situated in a former ice house, the eatery features appetizers, pizzas, salads, burgers, desserts and doggie ice cream as well as a kids' menu. Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar opened in May 2023 at 1314 10th St.

Both dog bars require memberships to ensure that all dogs entering are vaccinated, spayed/neutered and socialized. Dog Bar St. Pete memberships cost $7 a day, $50 for a 10-punch pass and $150 for a year. At Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar, memberships are $8 per day, $20 per month or $200 per year.