If you’ve heard the buzz about Murphy's Bar in Astoria’s doggy costume brunch, you already know what’s coming: waffles, wagging tails, and a parade of pups dressed to absolutely steal the show. Picture your usual weekend brunch; now add tiny pirates, hot-dog dachshunds, and at least one Frenchie in a lobster suit. That’s the vibe. It’s peak Astoria: good food, big laughs, and a neighborhood that shows up for the fun stuff.
What it is (and why locals are obsessed)
Murphy’s Bar is hosting a two-day Doggy Costume Brunch with a full-on dog treat–making station, a costume competition with prizes, and plenty of space for photos and pets. The event runs Saturday, October 4, and Sunday, October 5 (yes, both days), and it’s designed for people who treat their dog like family, because in Queens, we do. Expect a lively, family-friendly scene with brunch classics, game-day energy, and lots of “Okay, but where did you get that costume?” conversations.
Here’s the cute kicker: the treat station is hands-on. You’ll mix and shape simple pup-safe treats, then watch your co-star absolutely crush the runway. The competition is friendly, resembling the energy of "Best in Show," with neighbors judging and cheering for every dog as if they had raised it themselves.
Where to go, how to book, and what to expect
Location: Murphy’s Bar, 45-01 23rd Ave, Astoria—a corner spot with a big Queens personality and staff who know how to run an event. If you haven’t been yet, it’s a welcoming sports-and-events bar with brunch every weekend, happy hour deals, and a surprisingly strong community calendar.
Time & Reservations: Brunch hours apply both days; reservations are strongly recommended (these themed weekends fill fast). Book via the bar’s site or DM/reserve through Instagram. If you’re aiming for prime costume-photo light, ask for a table near the front windows or the patio.
Transit: It’s a straightforward walk from the Astoria Blvd and Ditmars Blvd bus routes; street parking exists but can be tight on event days. If you’re coming from elsewhere in Queens, plan a quick rideshare from the N/W line at Astoria Blvd or Ditmars Blvd. (Bonus tip: stash a lint roller in your bag; you’ll thank me later.)
Contact: (347) 242-3786; events and updates drop first on Instagram.
The menu (for humans) and the treat table (for pups)
Murphy’s runs a brunch menu that checks all the boxes: eggs, pancakes, burgers, and the game-day staples this place is known for, plus a solid draft list if you’re making it a leisurely outing. Meanwhile, the DIY dog treat station is hosted in partnership with a local maker; the ingredients are simple and pup-safe, so your dog can snack without the side-eye. (If your dog has allergies, bring a backup treat and let staff know.)
The costume competition: how to play it smart
Yes, anything goes. Yes, creativity wins. And yes, comfort first. Here’s how to set your four-legged friend up for success:
Try the outfit at home a day early. Let your dog wander, sit, and lie down in it. If they’re fiddling nonstop, simplify.
Prioritize breathable fabrics and a secure but not snug fit, especially around the neck and chest.
Bring a “cool-down” bandana for post-photos so your pup can relax while you finish brunch.
Pack water and a small mat so your dog has a “place” to settle—useful when the servers come around with trays and the bacon smell hits.
Judging is lighthearted and celebratory (this is Queens, not Westminster), and there are prizes, with bragging rights that will outlast the Instagram carousel.
Fun for Everyone at the Event
The pups may steal the spotlight, but there is so much for people to enjoy. Murphy’s Bar hosts a lively weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The menu is filled with favorites like a breakfast burrito, burrata toast, and an Irish breakfast sandwich that always hit the spot.
If you are looking for something extra fun, try the bottomless brunch for only $25. It is a great way to relax with friends while enjoying plenty of good food and conversation.
Of course, brunch is incomplete without the perfect drink. Murphy’s has a wide range of draft beers and specialty cocktails to choose from, so you can sip while you cheer on the pups in their creative costumes.
The mix of food, drinks, and playful energy makes this event just as exciting for humans as it is for pets. Come hungry, bring your friends, and get ready to eat, drink, and enjoy a festive day full of community spirit and fun memories.
Why this is peak Astoria
What I love about this event is how it captures the neighborhood’s personality: hyper-local, welcoming, and a little bit extra, in the best way. You’ll see regulars from around Ditmars, new neighbors from just-signed leases, and families who bring grandparents for the show. If you’re house-hunting, this is a low-stakes way to feel the weekend rhythm: the streets, the brunch energy, and the community vibe that makes this pocket of Queens so livable.
And credit where it’s due—Murphy’s Bar has leaned into community programming since opening: soccer mornings, fight nights, weekly brunch, and a calendar that rewards repeat visits. It’s the kind of place that remembers your order and your dog’s name. That matters more than people realize when you’re choosing a block to call home.
Why Events Like This Matter for Homeowners
Events like this are why I love living and working in Queens: a local bar decides that the best kind of brunch is the one where everyone, especially the dogs, is invited. If you’re curious about Astoria living, this is your preview. If you’re already here, it’s an effortless “say yes” weekend plan with friends.
Are you considering relocating nearby or simply seeking a list of dog-friendly buildings and blocks in the vicinity of Ditmars, Astoria Park, or 30th Ave? I’m here for the real talk, the numbers, and the neighborhood nuance.
Now is the time to explore your options. Let’s work together to find a home that matches your lifestyle and gives you and your fur baby a true place to belong. Reach out today and start your journey toward a beautiful new chapter.