Ask Italian is an Italian restaurant chain from the Azzurri Group with over 100 locations across the UK. They are known for serving up classic Italian dishes like pizza, pasta, and risotto in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. When it comes to allowing dogs, Ask Italian has a bit of a mixed reputation among pet owners.
Ask Italian’s Official Dog Policy
According to Ask Italian’s official website, they welcome well-behaved dogs at their restaurants. Their policy states that dog owners should check with their local restaurant first, as the manager has discretion over whether dogs can be accommodated based on the layout and capacity of that particular location.
Ask Italian emphasizes that any dog brought into their restaurants must be kept under proper control, remain well-behaved, and kept off furniture and tables. Dog owners are expected to clean up appropriately after their dogs. The restaurant states that guide and assistance dogs are always welcome.
While Ask Italian presents itself as a dog-friendly chain overall, they make clear that individual restaurant managers can prohibit dogs if they deem a specific location unsuitable for accommodating them. Dog owners are advised to call ahead to ensure their local Ask Italian welcomes dogs before visiting with pets.
Experiences from Dog Owners
Many dog owners who have visited Ask Italian report mixed experiences when bringing their four-legged friends. While some locations warmly welcome dogs with water bowls and treats, other franchises strictly prohibit dogs or ask owners to sit outside. Here are some first-hand anecdotes from dog owners:
Michelle J. says “I frequently take my Yorkie Ziggy to the Ask Italian near my office in Manchester for lunch. The host always exclaims ‘Here comes Ziggy!’ and brings him a dog biscuit while directing us to a comfy booth. We’ve never had any issues.”
James R. recalls “I called ahead to the Ask Italian in Liverpool to confirm they allowed dogs on their patio. But when I arrived with my bulldog Rosie, the manager refused us service, saying dogs weren’t permitted at any time, even outside. It was disappointing.”
Sarah W. explains “The Ask Italian I visited in Leeds welcomed my dachshund Eli with open arms. The server brought him a water bowl and let him settle under the table while I ate. But my friend brought his lab to a different location and wasn’t allowed to sit outside.”
Alex T. says “I took my corgi Ollie to an Ask Italian once thinking their outdoor seating would be dog-friendly, but a waitress asked me to leave right away. Now I just avoid taking him there since only some locations seem to allow dogs.”
Inconsistency Between Locations
While Ask Italian’s official policy is to welcome dogs, some customers report inconsistencies between different restaurant locations. Not all Ask Italian branches seem to follow corporate policy. There are reports of certain Ask Italians turning away guests with dogs, even small lap dogs, while others happily accommodate them.
This inconsistency likely comes down to the discretion of the individual restaurant manager. Some locations appear stricter than others in only allowing certified assistance dogs. There are a few customer reviews complaining they were not allowed to dine with their small dog, despite calling ahead to confirm it was permitted.
If you plan to visit Ask Italian with your dog, it’s a good idea to call the specific location first to check. Let them know you are bringing a well-behaved dog and ask if they have any restrictions. This gives the staff a heads up and allows you to confirm dogs are in fact welcomed at that branch before arriving.
To avoid any awkward confrontations, try to speak directly with the manager on duty. The general manager usually has the final say on enforcing dining policies. If one location turns you away, you may have better luck finding an accommodating Ask Italian nearby.
Outdoor Seating
Many Ask Italian locations offer outdoor patio or courtyard seating options. This outdoor space is more likely to allow dogs than the indoor dining rooms. The outdoor area provides a bit more separation for guests who may be uncomfortable around dogs or have allergies.
The outdoor seating also gives dogs more space to relax without disrupting the dining area. There’s often more flexibility for staff to make accommodations for pets in the outdoor section. With fresh air and extra room to roam, the patio or courtyard provides a calmer environment for your dog.
Call ahead to your local Ask Italian branch and inquire if they allow dogs in their outdoor seating. Many locations with patios, gardens, or courtyards are happy to host pets and owners in those areas during good weather. Just be sure your dog is well-behaved and under control, and be respectful of other diners sharing the outdoor space.
Guide Dogs
Service dogs and guide dogs are legally allowed in all public places in the UK under the Equality Act 2010. This includes restaurants like Ask Italian. Guide dogs and other assistance dogs must be welcomed inside Ask Italian locations.
Ask Italian states on their website that guide dogs are welcome in their restaurants. Their staff are accustomed to providing water bowls and making accommodations for service animals.
While most Ask Italian locations will readily accept guide dogs, it’s still a good idea to call ahead to confirm. Some franchised locations may have less experience accommodating service animals. However, legally they must allow guide dogs and other assistance dogs inside.
In summary, Ask Italian does allow guide dogs and service animals in their restaurants. These assistance dogs are protected under UK law. While policies are clear, it can’t hurt to give your local Ask Italian a call to confirm they’re ready to accommodate your guide dog.
Dogs Welcome Awards
Ask Italian has received several notable awards and certifications for being dog-friendly over the years. This is a testament to their commitment to accommodating canine customers.
In 2018, Ask Italian was awarded the PDSA Gold Footprint Award by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals, a veterinary charity in the UK. This award goes to businesses that welcome dogs and provide them water bowls, treats, and other amenities.
Ask Italian locations across the UK have also been certified as “Dog Friendly” by The Kennel Club’s Open for Dogs program. This program inspects and approves restaurants based on having outdoor seating, dog-friendly menus, water bowls, and knowledgeable staff.
With these certifications and awards under their belt, Ask Italian has proven itself as a standout dog-friendly restaurant chain in the UK. Dog owners can dine at ease knowing their pup will be welcomed and cared for.
Tips for Visiting with Dogs
Visiting a restaurant with your dog can be enjoyable for both you and your pup if you come prepared. Here are some tips for having the best experience when dining at Ask Italian with your dog:
- Call ahead to confirm that the location welcomes dogs, especially for peak mealtimes. Double check if there are designated dog-friendly areas.
- Look on the website or social media pages for any pet policies like size restrictions.
- Bring a leash and keep your dog close so they don’t wander into seating areas or the kitchen.
- Bring water and collapsible bowls so your dog stays hydrated.
- Pack puppy pads, bags and cleaning supplies in case of accidents.
- Choose a table on the patio or outdoor area if available for less disruption.
- Don’t let your dog beg from other tables or guests.
- Keep noise levels in mind. Excessive barking should be addressed.
- Be prepared to sit outside even if the weather is unpleasant.
- Bring treats to occupy and reward your dog for good behavior.
By taking a few simple precautions, you and your pooch can have a positive mealtime experience together at Ask Italian.
Other Dog-Friendly Italian Chains
Ask Italian’sdog policy is fairly standard compared to some other popular Italian chain restaurants in the UK. Here’s a quick comparison of their pet policies:
Pizza Express – One of the most dog-friendly Italian chains, Pizza Express openly welcomes dogs both inside and outside at most locations. They even provide dog bowls and treats.
Zizzi – Similar to Ask Italian, Zizzi allows dogs in outdoor areas. Some locations also permit dogs inside depending on the restaurant layout and manager discretion.
Prezzo – Prezzo has an inconsistent dog policy, with outdoor seating open to dogs at some spots but not others. They don’t advertise being particularly dog-friendly.
Strada – Strada clearly states on their website that dogs are welcome on their outdoor terraces. Indoor dining is not advertised as dog-friendly.
Jamie’s Italian – Previously, Jamie’s Italian was very dog-friendly. However, since being acquired by new owners in 2019, their pet policy is unclear. Some locations still allow dogs outside.
Overall, Ask Italian’s dog policy is fairly standard for Italian chains in permitting dogs solely in outdoor seating areas. They do not stand out as either strongly dog-friendly or restrictive compared to competitors.
Summary
Overall, Ask Italian’s dog friendliness seems to vary between locations. Some restaurants happily welcome dogs, especially in outdoor seating areas, while others enforce stricter no dog policies. Ask Italian does not have an official nationwide policy on allowing dogs, so it’s best to call ahead to your local restaurant to understand their specific rules. The chain has won some Dogs Welcome Awards based on positive experiences from dog owners at select locations. If planning a visit with your dog, opt for outdoor patio seating when possible, keep your dog on a leash and well-behaved, and be prepared to take your dog elsewhere if the staff asks you to leave. While not 100% dog friendly across all locations, Ask Italian can be a good Italian dining option to enjoy with your furry friend if you do your research ahead of time.