By: Barker Kitsen in LA

We would never tell you that your dog is fat…how gauche. However, big dogs are celebrated at the aptly named, The Fat Dog on N. Fairfax in West Hollywood (a spinoff of the Montrose fave, with another new location in North Hollywood), a little hidden gem of a bar. This Zagat-rated gastropub serves seriously good, upscale comfort food. We read an online rating which gave it a “Canine out of 10.”

You should definitely bring your dog to The Fat Dog…everybody does. Inside it’s all clean, leather booths, bar stools and chalkboard menus.

Outside, they have a great patio your woofer will love with water bowls everywhere (dogs are allowed until 7:00 pm…though some interlopers have been spotted much later). Fat Dog serves canine-inspired cocktails with names like The MuttThe PedigreeThe Dog BiteOff The LeashPick of The LitterWell Groomed and the ever-popular, Tailwagger.

Doggie décor is in full effect — American Kennel Association wallpaper, dog paintings (particularly of American Bulldogs, the owners’ breed of choice), dog photos posted by patrons in the hallway, dog treats and an all-around seeming love of the dog. Yet while dog-themed, this place is pleasantly un-kitschy. It’s a decidedly cool little spot. The drinks are great, excellent and interesting beer selection, the food is solid and it’s a fun place to connect with friends and your pooch.

Happy Hour runs M-F from 4:00-7:00 pm (call it “Yappy Hour,” if you will) and an $8 lunch special runs M-F from 12:00-4:00 pm. They serve brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am–3:00 pm, offering cocktails for “The Hair of the Dog That Bit You” such as The Rescue (Wipe Out IPA, St. Germain and orange juice) as well as some tasty entrees.

After you’ve had your boozy brunch, you can trek over to Tailwaggers on the block to pick up a new pet toy. And if you’re dog tired (pun intended), pop into Commissary Coffee next door for a most excellent coffee pick-me-up to keep you awake while walking your pooch later.

Florence and her Machine were incorrect…the dog days are NOT over.