Farm-to-table fare is a California staple. That’s especially true in Placer County, where seasonal produce, wine grapes, hops and other ingredients come directly from regional farms and ranches. If you and your pup are planning a Placer wine country picnic or you’d rather order up local beer and barbecue on the shores of Lake Tahoe, you’ll find something tasty to enjoy. Ready to sip, sample and savor Placer County’s freshest flavors? Here’s a menu of highlights.
Lincoln’s Dueling Dogs Brewing Co. is a can’t-miss for culinary fans and their dogs. Tucked on a 10-acre ranch along the Placer County Wine and Ale Trail, this family-owned favorite is a true crowd pleaser. The team pours beer, cider and mead made on site, while the surrounding fields support Satsuma mandarin oranges and seven types of hops. The farm stand sells local olive oil, nuts and honey, plus dog biscuits made over in Auburn. The pet-friendly tasting room has dog-themed beers, water bowls for furry guests, and doggie cookies for purchase. Your pup can stretch out on the shaded patio while you work through a flight — just be sure to grab a bag of those Auburn-made biscuits on your way out.
DogTrekkers also love The Monk’s Cellar, which serves house-made beers, Belgian classics and upscale pub fare in downtown Roseville. The outdoor seating area welcomes dogs, and the rotating tap list means there’s always something new to try. Smoked meats and spicy sides star at Moe’s Original Bar B Que, on the Grove St. pier in Tahoe City. Ask for a lake-view seat on the dog-friendly outdoor patio — the combination of slow-smoked ribs and sparkling Tahoe water is hard to beat.
Beyond these standouts, Placer County’s dog-friendly dining scene continues to grow. Many tasting rooms along the Wine and Ale Trail provide water bowls and shaded outdoor areas, so you can hop between stops without leaving your pup behind. Pack a picnic blanket and pick up locally made cheeses and charcuterie from farm stands along the way for an afternoon of wine, sunshine, and happy tail wags. Just remember to bring extra water for your dog, especially during warmer months when temperatures climb in the Gold Country foothills.
