You can’t walk a mile in downtown St. Pete without seeing bar-goers with a leash in hand and their pup close behind.
Whether they’re lapping up water to stay hydrated in the Florida sun while their owner indulges in some brunch bubbles or being admired by passersby while they’re lounging in the shade, dogs have taken over the dining scene.
And by the way, we’re not mad about it.
Because these pooches are a trendy plus-one to have, Boulevard Burgers & Tap House is going from dog-friendly to dog-pampering.
Taking it a step further than hosting a Yappy Hour every Saturday afternoon, encouraging customers to bring their pooches to get $1 off all drafts, Boulevard Burgers reached out to local pet boutiques to create an entire menu for pup plus-ones.
With a serious appreciation for his customers, Boulevard Burgers proprietor, Charles Marco, decided it was time to “show extra love for our dog visitors.”
The PUPetizers menu is constructed of treats sourced from local shops Bark Life Market and St. PetersBARK.
Both boutiques specialize in all-natural baked dog treats and top-of-the-line products for those who take pride in pet-ownership.
Bark Life Market has been a staple in the pet industry for over 30 years, assisting pet owners with grooming, and supplying healthy food and unique accessories.
Although fairly new to the scene, launching on Dr. MLK Jr. St. by owner Krista Schmidt in 2015, St. PetersBARK has become a hotspot specializing in homemade treats and belly rubs.
The offerings for your furry best friend include bites for under $5 like beef and cheese sliders, bacon strips, sweet potato treats, beef liver and chicken jerky.
To celebrate the launch of the PUPetizers menu, BB has partnered with The Humane Society of Tampa Bay to benefit our four-legged friends while getting in on some specialty grub.
“We chose to partner with The Humane Society for our official launch party because we support their efforts and appreciate the impact the local organization has within the community,” Marco adds.
Next Saturday, April 27, from noon-4 p.m., Boulevard Burgers will host adoptable dogs, at 5905 Gulf Blvd., St Pete Beach.
Attendees can adopt dogs on-site, and get information about adoption, volunteering and how they can do their part to help animals in need throughout Tampa Bay.
It wouldn’t be a celebration without brews and prizes — $1 off drafts will be available for those of age and with two legs.
Treat samples, games on the lawn and raffles will also take place throughout the event.
Ten percent of all sales that day, as well as raffle proceeds, will be donated to The Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
No need to deny you dog scraps off the table during your weekend lunch; they can have their own meal without making a dent in your wallet.
Talk about a cheap date.
Want to know everything going on with Tampa Bay's food and drink scene? Sign up for our Bites newsletter.
This article appears in Apr 18-25, 2019.
