Swirl on the Square sits right in Blacksmith Square in downtown Livermore, a wine lounge that’s become a real hub for the local wine scene. They focus on Livermore Valley wines—which honestly makes sense given how many wineries are just minutes away in the valley—and pair them with small plates and tapas. The courtyard is set up for dogs, so you can bring yours along while you’re sipping and eating.

What actually works well here is the outdoor setup. The courtyard has that mix of old and new that Blacksmith Square is known for, and there’s live music from local musicians throughout the year, which gives the place real energy without being loud enough to stress out most dogs. I’ve seen people sitting out there with their dogs on a leash or relaxed beside their chair while they work through the wine list and order plates.

The food menu changes but leans into tapas-style bites designed to go with wine—nothing too heavy, which is good if you’re planning to taste through several glasses. They’re clearly trying to highlight what’s coming out of the valley’s vineyards rather than importing from somewhere else, so you get a sense of what local winemakers are actually doing. The courtyard is shaded in parts, which matters on warm afternoons.

One thing to keep in mind: Blacksmith Square gets busy on weekends and during events, so the courtyard can fill up fast. If you’re bringing your dog and want a relaxed experience, going on a weekday afternoon is smarter than Saturday night. The staff seems used to dogs being around, but it’s worth calling ahead if you’re coming during a crowded time to ask about current seating and how they’re managing the patio.