Downtown restaurants going to the dogs ... and the dogs (and owners) are loving it

Erika Roth and Austin Haley of Manchester share a laugh while awaiting their meal at Revolution as Copper keeps an eye out for intruders. (Rochester Voice photos)

ROCHESTER - You've heard of al fresco dining, which translates to "in the fresh air."

Now Rochester is taking it a step further with "al fido dining," which is when you dine in the fresh air ... with Fido.

And Saturday was the perfect day in city's downtown to enjoy this newest trend.

Joshua and Meaghan Matthews of Rochester enjoy some pizza and beer while dining at Revolution as their dog Marley looks on attentively.

"It's great to have him here," quipped Austin Haley of Manchester referring to his dog, Copper. "Especially like now when he's behaving."

But Copper wasn't the only pooch enjoying the sun, the fun and the smell of food at the Revolution Taproom and Grill.

Just a few tables over Marley was also enjoying the day as he watched his masters dine on pizza and beer.

"This is just fantastic," said Meaghan Matthews of Rochester, who was dining

JUST CHILLIN ON A WARM APRIL DAY - Jessica Rico gives her dog Whiskey a pat as Bella, background, looks on outside Mitchell Hill BBQ and Brew Saturday afternoon.

with her husband, Joshua. "We are loving the sunshine, having a couple of beers and having our dog with us."

Across the street at Mitchell Hill BBQ and Brew a Bella and Whiskey were hanging out with a large group of diners who were awaiting their meal.

"They're being very good," said Jessica Rico as she patted her dog, Whiskey.

All the dogs were provided with complimentary water bowls by the respective restaurants.

The only question was whether they were going to also get the doggie bags.