San Francisco boasts a culinary paradise with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, and its residents are known for their love of dogs. Therefore, it’s hardly surprising that an entrepreneur has ingeniously combined these two passions, giving rise to what is believed to be the city’s inaugural restaurant exclusively catering to man’s best friend.
Dogue, a clever play on words that rhymes with “vogue,” recently debuted in the hip Mission District. For a fee of $75 per canine guest, patrons can treat their furry companions to a multi-course “bone appetite” meal, featuring delicacies such as chicken skin waffles and filet mignon steak tartare with quail egg. The canine culinary experience also includes a mimosa for the dog owner and a special baked treat for their four-legged friend.
Rahmi Massarweh, a dog owner and classically trained chef, made the bold decision to transition from managing a high-end dining establishment to focusing on his innovative canine café. While some online critics have voiced concerns about the pricing, highlighting issues of income inequality, gentrification, and homelessness in the city, Massarweh has garnered overwhelming support from customers who appreciate the unique space to pamper their pets.
Despite the controversy, Dogue has hosted simultaneous fur baby birthday parties, becoming a go-to destination for pet celebrations. Massarweh defends the price point, emphasizing the quality of ingredients and the time-consuming, detailed preparation involved in crafting the doggie dishes. He argues that the real objective of Dogue is to raise awareness about providing dogs with fresh, healthy, natural ingredients—a concept backed by research suggesting it may be gentler on a dog’s stomach than mass-produced dog food.
In essence, Dogue aims to offer a unique and satisfying experience, not just for the dogs but also for their owners, promoting a fresh perspective on canine nutrition and well-being.