Like most of the traveling public, this canine gastronomical gourmet cannot always afford the time or money to indulge his tastes for the finer things in life. But, I can always sniff out a great eatery that offers wonderful food in a casual atmosphere for a very affordable price. Here are three such pet friendly places in the village of Mendocino, CA.
Frankie’s – (707) 937-2436 Located at 44951 Ukiah St., Mendocino: Frankie’s is a local’s favorite for pizza & ice cream. With one communal picnic table on the patio and plenty of bench seating, when a hound has the inkling for delicious hand-made pizza that uses fresh local and organic toppings this is where they lead their master. A water bowl is usually provided on the deck and if not, one can always be requested and it will soon be presented along with a smile and head rub. With several mouthwatering pizza selections to choose from and always a couple of special featured pizza by the slice and soups of the day, you will be well satisfied. My dads especially like Frankie’s pie of fresh diced tomatoes, fragrant basil leaves, organic chicken, sweet onion and mushroom, a thin crust taste sensation. They do a mean pepperoni which is offered by the slice too. Frankie’s also has a nice selection of chilled beverages, offers free Wi-Fi inside for patrons and in the evenings, they often feature live music and performance art. Save room for dessert or by golly just go for dessert. Frankie’s is also a creamery serving Cowlicks finest ice cream. Yes! they have vanilla so there is no excuse for your caretakers not to get you a taste (unless you are a lactose intolerant pooch).
Mendo Burger
Mendo Burgers – (707) 937-1111 Mendo Burgers is a local gem of a hamburger joint located at 10483 Lansing St, Mendocino. Nestled behind the Mendocino Bakery & Café, Mendo Burgers has several picnic tables, some with shade as well as counter service seating and an indoor dining area with flat panel TV and reading books for children. Everything is made fresh and to order. Your friendly and welcoming Mendo Burgers experience begins with Boots, the owner’s cute tail wagging canine greeter. Boot’s is often stationed by the front door, watching over the water bowls that are thoughtfully provided for thirsty canine guests. At Mendo Burgers you will find beef, veggie, turkey or natural beef burgers, fish sandwiches, grilled chicken sandwiches, patty melts, big dogs (a giant all-beef frank), fish & chips, and steak sandwiches on its menu.
You have heard me talk about my caretaker’s expertise on certain food items, i.e., Bananas Foster and Clam Chowder to name two, which they have experienced the country over. Well, here is another food choice that they are well versed with and that is “fries”. At Mendo Burgers, they do this classic side dish to perfection. When they say “fresh cut”, they mean it; right there in front of your eyes goes the potatoes (skin on) ‘Woof Woof’ for that, then through the cutting press and into the sizzling oil. A generous helping of these melt in your mouth delicious morsels of perfection are offered in classic, Cajun, garlic, with chili & cheese or to die for Blue Cheese topped heaven. A large selection of beverages is available, they even have ice cold real Coca Cola in glass bottles. On a glorious sunny day, with the smell and sound of the ocean tickling the senses, can it get any more quintessentially American as a really good burger, “to die for” fries, all washed down with an iced cold beverage? This USA born Cairn terrier doesn’t think so.
Mendocino Bakery & Café – (707) 937-0836 Mendocino Bakery & Cafe is a local institution and a popular destination for good reason. Located at 10485 Lansing St, Mendocino, the bakery serves an incredible array of freshly baked goods, bagels, muffins, shortbread, cookies, scones and fresh baked breads. Thanksgiving (a local Fort Bragg coffee company) organic and fair trade coffee and teas along with a wide selection of soft beverages are available. In-house made soups, salads either grain or green, pizza, quiches, burritos, empanadas, sandwiches and wraps are just a few of the tempting fare offered and eagerly devoured . We canine diners get to enjoy this eatery with our caregivers on their large deck which is just perfect for people and other dog watching. A water bowl is usually on site, but if not, just ask and one will be provided. Mendocino Bakery and Café has friendly staff, tempting and satisfying food at very reasonable prices.
All of the three places mentioned above offer call ahead and take out service. Please check for operating days and times.
