Last week, Philadelphia received a new venue that offers just as much for four-legged friends as it does for their owners. The Boozy Mutt officially opened its doors on Dec. 13 as a bar, restaurant and also, off-leash dog park.
Husband and wife partners Sam and Allison Mattiola set their sights on the Fairmount area of the city (2639 Poplar Street, the corner of 27th and Poplar to be exact) after acquiring the old North Star Bar space in July of 2022. Since then, they turned the 7,500 square-foot property to include a 3,120 square-foot artificial grass yard and a two-story brick building complete with a restaurant, private event space, retail merchandise area, and a dog wash room. The new 140-seat restaurant and bar also offers menus for both humans and dogs.
For humans, The Boozy Mutt will be serving up American classics with global and modern twists from Executive Chef Alex Osborne. Highlights from the opening menu include “Fairmount Fries”, falafel encrusted salmon, a Mexican street corn and shaved Brussel caesar salad, a smash “mutt” burger and even a “Crabby Patty.” For brunch (weekends) Philadelphians have the option to indulge in fried chicken and “woofles”, sourdough French toast, and a variety of omelets.
On top of the food, a full bar will also be available. As a release states, the Mattiola’s and General Manager Travis Roupp spent considerable time designing their wine and beer program, selecting several local brewers including Lost Time, New Trail, Carbon Copy, Second District and Tonewood. In total, there are eight rotating taps, a handful of seasonal wines, and a selection of creative cocktails and non-alcoholic options.
And for the pups? The Boozy Mutt will be serving up different snacks and main courses including coconut chicken “nuggies”; a pumpkin and egg white quiche; and a “housemade biscuits” platter spanning peanut butter, carrot-ginger, coconut rice, and pumpkin options. The venue is open to humans 21+, with no pet requirements or entry fees.
“While dogs are our inspiration, you don’t need a dog to visit the Boozy Mutt,” said Allison in a statement. “The idea of inclusivity is what prompted the name. We are so excited to share this amazing experience with all dog lovers – whether you own a dog or not. Plus, watching the dogs play is an incredibly fun and therapeutic experience.”
As the release also notes, those interested in bringing their dogs have several membership options, including daily, monthly and annual passes. Day passes are available “to sniff around” for $10 on weekdays and $15 on weekends, while monthly and yearly memberships offer access to higher amenities including special events, retail credit, food/drink specials, complimentary dog washes and more. Philadelphians should note that all dogs must be registered with all up-to-date vaccinations through the Boozy Mutt website before entering the business.
“Safety will always be our top priority,” said Sam in another statement. “Enforcing rules similar to the ones in place in most doggy daycare businesses is necessary because we have to be prepared for anything.” With that ideology in mind, the Boozy Mutt team includes trained and dog-CPR certified “Rufferees” to help keep everyone safe, monitor dog play, maintain cleanliness, and replenish water bowls.
To learn more, Philadelphians can visit theboozymutt.com or follow them on Instagram @theboozymutt
