» Barnaby's Cafe - River Oaks

Enjoy diner food with a canine twist.

Not as diverse as the original Fairview location, the newer, roomier River Oaks area Barnaby's bustles with a cross-section of cool families toting tots, Gen X-ers, single straights and gays.

In this dog-eat-dog restaurant world, count on Barnaby's user-friendly menu, a magnet for chow-hounds and healthful eaters alike. There's a bit of West Coast influence--fetch California salad or chicken La Jolla--along with creature comforts like Dr. Gale's tomato-sauced meatloaf with satisfying garlic mashed potatoes. Organic chuck burgers (spicy guacamole-topped is delish) taste backyard charcoal-grilled, and seasoned fries are tops.

Dogs of all shapes and sizes join their owners on the dog-friendly patio.