These days, it’s not uncommon to see a Yorkie perched atop a shopping cart in Target or a Golden Retriever sniffing around Home Depot. Instead of leaving their four-legged best friends at home, many people bring their dogs along on adventures from running errands to dining out. Recognizing the need for a designated place where humans and their furry companions could share each others’ company, husband and wife team Bobby Boivin and Mindy Kaufman opened Boo’s Ice House & Dog Bar in Sarasota’s Rosemary District.

Loving dog parents, Kaufman and Boivin frequented a dog bar in St. Pete. Watching the dogs play while enjoying a drink sparked joy for the couple. “We kept going back and thought that someone should open one of these in Sarasota, and that turned out to be us,” says Kaufman. “It took us a while to find this location. We originally wanted a property that was more outside-based, but this space has such a wonderful vibe and is perfect for an indoor-outdoor setup. With the movement of air and the skylights, it’s like we’re bringing the outside indoors,” she adds. Boo’s dual nature means that dogs have a space to play whether it’s a brisk January day or a sweltering summer afternoon. 

The space itself is a paradise for dogs, featuring open play areas with obstacle courses and plenty of room to explore off-leash. Pet parents must disclose any behavioral issues in their membership application, and Paw-Leash Rufficers supervise the dogs at all times to ensure that everyone is getting along or step in to de-escalate any conflicts. Both inside and outside, a fence separates the dining areas from the play areas. The fences are low enough that patrons can enjoy a meal while surveying the boisterous dogs and taking in the bar’s dog-themed decor, including a handmade wood and epoxy bar and tables inlaid with a paw print design, made by Boivin, who built out most of the space. “We wanted it to be sophisticated and clean, but there are dogs here. They’ll be on the couches and every piece of furniture, so we made it comfortable and rustic,” Kaufman says. “I love the juxtaposition between the vintage dog posters—think 101 Dalmatians—and the neon signage.” A cozy interior dining room is also available for patrons who, like many of Boo’s furry visitors, keep their eyes on the menu. 

Pizza shines among the food offerings, thanks to Restaurant Manager Dave Grammer, who joined Boo’s team after closing Goodfellas Café & Winery. “We want people to be impressed,” adds Kaufman. “Instead of getting a greasy burger, you can come here for the food, which includes typical favorites that we elevated.” Dishes like the Dream Dog Pizza and Rings on a Tail, crispy onion rings served on a metal dog fixture, as well as irreverent cocktails like the Fire Hydrant infuse the menu with fun dog-themed twists. “It’s a safe and comfortable space that lets the dogs do their magic and puts a smile on everyone’s face when they come in,” says Kaufman. “People can forget what’s going on in their lives and watch the dogs have fun.”