White Dog Cafe - University City

Name: White Dog Cafe - University City
Address: 3420 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA, United States, 19104
Telephone: (215) 386-9224
Price range: $30 and under
Rating: 4.7

4.7

5474 Reviews

$30 and under

Contemporary American

White Dog Cafe - University City

4.7

$30 and under

Contemporary American

University City

Make a booking

2 people

14 Dec 2024

19:00

Booked 93 times today

Neighbourhood gem
Charming
Good for special occasions

An iconic restaurant in University City since 1983, White Dog Cafe is a leader in using environmentally sustainable, organic, and local foods from farms within 50 miles. Known for warm hospitality, and inspiring award-winning food, the White Dog's historic three brownstones offer charming and whimsical dog décor and artwork in its many unique dining spaces and outdoor dining on the sidewalk.

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Elegant
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Contemporary American, Farm-to-table, American
Hours of Operation
Daily 15:00–16:00 Brunch Sat, Sun 09:00–15:00 Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00–15:00 Dinner Mon–Thu 16:00–21:00 Fri, Sat 16:00–21:30 Sun 16:00–20:00 Happy Hour Mon–Fri 16:00–18:00
Phone number
(215) 386-9224
Website
https://whitedog.com/universitycity
Payment Options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive Chef
Albert Alvarado
Private party facilities
We welcome you to explore our Private Dining options, perfect for any occasion.

Location
3420 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Area
University City
Cross Street
On Sansom Street between 34th and 36th Street
Parking details
Metered Street Parking is available surrounding the restaurant. Penn garage is available on 34th Street and Ludlow.
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Dog Friendly, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeaway, Vegan, Weekend Brunch, Wine

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Gift card

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Popular dishes

Bread BasketUS$13.00
House Made Milk Bread, Sea Salt Butter, Spicy Honey, B & B Pickles
Roasted Garlic HummusUS$17.00
Baby Carrot Chermoula, Grilled Pita, Lavash Chips
Goat Cheese Whipped RicottaUS$18.00
Roasted Local Pears, Grapes, Balsamic, Spiced Hazelnuts, Grilled Sourdough
Foot Long Hot DogUS$23.00
All Beef, Buttery Bun, Local & House Made Condiments
Snack BoardUS$23.00
Smoking Goose Mortadella, Pepperoni, Pepper Shooters, Local Cheese, Chips, Deviled Eggs, Fruits, Nuts, Pickles
Local Artisan CheesesUS$19.00
Choice of Three, Seasonal Accompaniments
Buffalo Chicken DipUS$18.00
Locust Point Pulled Chicken, Flatbread Chips, Carrots & Celery, Ranch

First Course

Add Protein to Salad: Free Range Chicken Breast $9, Organic Tofu $6, Pacific Shrimp $12, Verlasso Salmon $13, Grilled Sirloin $22

Kennett Square Mushroom SoupUS$13.00
Truffle Crème Fraîche, Chives
Autumn Squash BisqueUS$13.00
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds, Chili Oil
Sandy Ridge Deviled EggsUS$12.00
Cage Free Eggs, Chefs Choice of Fillings
Yellow Fin Tuna Tartare*US$18.00
Avocado, Sriracha, Sesame Soy Emulsion, Micro Cilantro
Wild Mushroom ToastUS$16.00
Pickled Shallots, Maplebrook Farm Stracciatella, Grilled Pumpernickel
Crispy CauliflowerUS$15.00
Kung Pao Sauce, Scallions, Chilis, Toasted Peanuts
Oysters on the Half*US$0.00
Cocktail Sauce, Lemon, Mignonette
- MPUS$0.00
Spicy Lamb BologneseUS$16.00
House Made Rigatoni, Jersey Crushed Tomatoes, Wilted Spinach, Basil Ricotta
Beet & Arugula SaladUS$14.00
Shellbark Hollow Goat Cheese, Herb Crème Fraîche, Crispy Polenta 'Croutons'
Caesar SaladUS$14.00
Romaine, Red Endive, Crouton, Parmesan Crisp, Lemon Anchovy Dressing
Fall Harvest SaladUS$14.00
Broccoli, Cauliflower, Apples, Craisins, Pepitas, Pecans, Blue Cheese, Local Greens, Maple- Dijon Vinaigrette

Entrees

Roasted Giannone Farms Half ChickenUS$29.00
Broccolini, Smokey Mac & Cheese, Herby Chicken Jus
Fall Vegetable ArepasUS$22.00
Poblano Peppers, Black Bean, Sweet Potato Salsa, Queso Blanco, Avocado Crema, Salsa Roja
Asian BBQ Pork RibsUS$29.00
Spicy Linvilla Orchard Pear Slaw, Sesame Crusted Steamed Rice
La Belle Farm Roasted Half DuckUS$46.00
Shoestring Fries, Blood Orange Sweet & Sour Sauce, Grilled Scallions
Blackened Cajun CatfishUS$28.00
Blue Moon Acres Rice Pilaf, Pickled Tinkerbell Peppers, Crispy Okra, Petites Herbs, Shrimp Étouffée
Spicy Thai Steak Salad*US$28.00
Chilled Tenderloin Tips, Udon Noodles, Shiitake Mushrooms, Peanuts, Baby Greens, Julienne Vegetables, Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette
Ivy City Smoked Salmon Chopped SaladUS$27.00
Local Greens, Tomato, Pickled Tinkerbell Peppers, Citrus, Everything Bagel Spice, Pumpernickel Croutons, Creamy Horseradish Dressing
Pecan Crusted Verlasso SalmonUS$30.00
Maple Bourbon Glaze, Roasted Yams, Apples, Eagle Road Farm Lacinato Kale
Sesame Seared Yellowfin TunaUS$34.00
Rice Vermicelli, Baby Bok Choy, Pickled Chili, Herb Pho Broth
Local Flounder PiccataUS$28.00
Lemon Caper Butter, Creamy Crab & Broccoli Orzo
Green Meadow Farm Beef MeatloafUS$29.00
Country Style Mashed Potatoes, Swiss Chard, Mushroom Gravy
Meadow Run Farm Lamb ShankUS$43.00
Honeynut Squash, Tomato, Olives, Creamy Parmesan Polenta
Black Rock Farm NY Strip*US$56.00
Grilled 14 oz Black Angus Steak, Red Wine Shallot Butter, House Steak Sauce, Cipollini Onion, Fingerling Potatoes
Vegan Cheese BurgerUS$25.00
Impossible Patty, Epic! Spicy Pickle, Tomato, Onion, Lettuce, BBQ Aioli, Sweet Potato Bun, French Fries
White Dog 'Double Cheddar' Burger*US$24.00
Green Meadow Farm Smoked Bacon Mayo, Bibb Lettuce, Tomato, Grilled Red Onion, Brioche, Truffle Parmesan Fries

Seasonal Sides

$9 each

Sesame Steamed Rice
Spicy Linvilla Orchard Pear Slaw, Soy Sauce
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Pennsylvania Maple, Bacon
Fried Pickles
Garlic Panko Crusted, Spicy Mayo
Smokey Mac & Cheese
House Made Macaroni, Smoked Gouda, Butter Breadcrumbs
Truffle Parmesan Fries
Truffle Oil, Grana Padano, Chives
Country Mashed Potatoes
Mushroom Gravy, Chive

What 5,474 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7

4.7 based on recent ratings

4.7Food
4.7Service
4.7Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Philadelphia
Contemporary American

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

White Dog Cafe - University City is a delightful dining experience with "outstanding food and service." Guests enjoy a "lively atmosphere" with creative, dog-themed decor. The menu is diverse, accommodating dietary restrictions. While seating can be cozy, the "friendly and attentive staff" ensures a memorable visit. Reservations recommended!

5,474 Reviews

R
Roy
San Francisco
52 reviews
vip
5.0
52 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Wonderful tuna tartare appetizer Mushroom soup was terrific Meat loaf sandwich was delicious Chocolate cheesecake more than enough for 3 Great ambience and service Highly recommend
Is this helpful?
D
Daniel
Philadelphia
9 reviews
vip
5.0
9 reviews
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Nice quick lunch…we had an appointment at Penn Medicine (close by) and were running late, so we were in a rush. The server helped us get settled, took our order quickly and we had a. I’ve lunch and made it to our appointment. We will be back.
Is this helpful?
M
Maryellen
Philadelphia
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
I love this spot . The ambience and customer service are why I do. We sat at bar this time for our food & drink. It was decorated for the season & was very cheerful. Whenever we are in West Philly , this is our go to place .
Is this helpful?
A
Amy
New York City
79 reviews
5.0
79 reviews
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Our server was lovely, portions were generous, and meal was delicious!
Is this helpful?
L
Liz
Philadelphia
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on 6 December 2024
1. Overall 3
2. Food 3
3. Service 3
4. Ambience 5
Convenient to Penn Live Arts. Pricey for the experience.
Is this helpful?
D
Deb
New York City
3 reviews
vip
4.0
3 reviews
Dined on 1 December 2024
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Best omelette I’ve had in a long time! Server attentive and friendly- only his 3rd day there and he was great. Love the setting.
White Dog Cafe - University CityResponded 7 days ago
Hi Deb, Thank you for your kind words and thoughtful feedback! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the omelette and that our new team member provided attentive and friendly service—it’s wonderful to know he’s already making a positive impact. I’m so glad you loved the setting as well! We’d love the chance to make your next visit a five-star experience. Looking forward to welcoming you back soon! Warmly, Katie Eaton Manager
Is this helpful?
E
Elizabeth
Philadelphia
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on 30 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had an excellent meal on a holiday weekend in a quiet small room by ourselves. Because of hearing issues, that was most welcome. The food was superb and the waiter was charming and helpful. We all three had different fishes and shared the wild mushroom toast and unbelievably good hummus with warm pita. Much appreciated on a cold night!
Is this helpful?
A
Ali
Philadelphia
4 reviews
4.0
4 reviews
Dined on 30 November 2024
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 2
4. Ambience 5
Slow and inattentive service but overall, food and ambience were great. We would come again and hope for a better server experience!
Is this helpful?
M
Marinella
Philadelphia
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on 29 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Highly recommend, High quality ingredients and a nice atmosphere!
White Dog Cafe - University CityResponded 7 days ago
Hi Marinella, Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the high-quality ingredients and welcoming atmosphere. Your recommendation means so much to us, and we can’t wait to have you back again soon! Warmly, Katie Eaton Manager
Is this helpful?
A
Alex
New York City
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 24 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Really love this place the ambience is to die for! The staff are very energetic and youthful, the food quality is incredible and the atmosphere is worth every bit. I go here very often and I plan on taking more of my clients and friends here every opportunity I get.
White Dog Cafe - University CityResponded 7 days ago
Hi Alex, Thank you for such a wonderful review! It’s amazing to hear how much you love the ambiance, energetic staff, and incredible food quality. We’re honored to be your go-to spot and truly appreciate your support. We can’t wait to welcome you and your clients or friends back soon—it’s always a pleasure having you with us! Warmly, Katie Eaton Manager
Is this helpful?

FAQs

White Dog Cafe - University City offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (215) 386-9224.

White Dog Cafe - University City is rated 4.7 stars by 5474 OpenTable diners.

White Dog Cafe - University City does offer gift cards which you can purchase here.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

White Dog Cafe - University City

4.7

$30 and under

Contemporary American

University City

Make a booking

2 people

14 Dec 2024

19:00

Booked 93 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for White Dog Cafe - University City

3420 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Additional information

Cross Street
On Sansom Street between 34th and 36th Street
Area
University City
Hours of Operation
Daily 15:00–16:00 Brunch Sat, Sun 09:00–15:00 Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00–15:00 Dinner Mon–Thu 16:00–21:00 Fri, Sat 16:00–21:30 Sun 16:00–20:00 Happy Hour Mon–Fri 16:00–18:00
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
Contemporary American, Farm-to-table, American
Dining style
Casual Elegant
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Metered Street Parking is available surrounding the restaurant. Penn garage is available on 34th Street and Ludlow.
Payment Options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive Chef
Albert Alvarado
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Dog Friendly, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeaway, Vegan, Weekend Brunch, Wine

Website
https://whitedog.com/universitycity
Phone number
(215) 386-9224
Private party facilities
We welcome you to explore our Private Dining options, perfect for any occasion.

Featured in

Philadelphia’s 12 most drop-dead gorgeous restaurants

Gift card

Send gift cards instantly by email or print to present in person.

Send a gift card

White Dog Cafe - University City

White Dog Cafe - University City

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Philadelphia’s 12 most drop-dead gorgeous restaurants

Gift card

Goat Cheese Whipped Ricotta

Kennett Square Mushroom Soup

Pork Belly Benedict

To Share

Bread BasketUS$13.00

Roasted Garlic HummusUS$17.00

Goat Cheese Whipped RicottaUS$18.00

Foot Long Hot DogUS$23.00

Snack BoardUS$23.00

Local Artisan CheesesUS$19.00

Buffalo Chicken DipUS$18.00

First Course

Kennett Square Mushroom SoupUS$13.00

Autumn Squash BisqueUS$13.00

Sandy Ridge Deviled EggsUS$12.00

Yellow Fin Tuna Tartare*US$18.00

Wild Mushroom ToastUS$16.00

Crispy CauliflowerUS$15.00

Oysters on the Half*US$0.00

Spicy Lamb BologneseUS$16.00

Beet & Arugula SaladUS$14.00

Caesar SaladUS$14.00

Fall Harvest SaladUS$14.00

Entrees

Roasted Giannone Farms Half ChickenUS$29.00

Fall Vegetable ArepasUS$22.00

Asian BBQ Pork RibsUS$29.00

La Belle Farm Roasted Half DuckUS$46.00

Blackened Cajun CatfishUS$28.00

Spicy Thai Steak Salad*US$28.00

Ivy City Smoked Salmon Chopped SaladUS$27.00

Pecan Crusted Verlasso SalmonUS$30.00

Sesame Seared Yellowfin TunaUS$34.00

Local Flounder PiccataUS$28.00

Green Meadow Farm Beef MeatloafUS$29.00

Meadow Run Farm Lamb ShankUS$43.00

Black Rock Farm NY Strip*US$56.00

Vegan Cheese BurgerUS$25.00

White Dog 'Double Cheddar' Burger*US$24.00

Seasonal Sides

Sesame Steamed Rice

Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Fried Pickles

Smokey Mac & Cheese

Truffle Parmesan Fries

Country Mashed Potatoes

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Review summary

FAQs

Does White Dog Cafe - University City offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant rated?

Does White Dog Cafe - University City offer gift cards?

Is White Dog Cafe - University City currently accepting bookings?

White Dog Cafe - University City

Make a booking

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Featured in

Philadelphia’s 12 most drop-dead gorgeous restaurants

Gift card