White Dog Cafe - University City

4.6

5520 Reviews

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Make a reservation

2 people

Mar 11, 2025

7:00 p.m.

Booked 76 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 3:00 pm–4:00 pm Brunch Sat, Sun 9:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–9:30 pm Sun 4:00 pm–8:00 pm Happy Hour Mon–Fri 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
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
Neighbourhood
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, Takeout, 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$14.00
Truffle Crème Fraîche, Chives
Squash BisqueUS$13.00
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds, Chili Oil
Sandy Ridge Deviled EggsUS$12.00
Cage Free Eggs, Chefs Choice of Fillings
Yellowfin 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$16.00
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
Winter 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, Smoky Mac & Cheese, Herby Chicken Jus
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 Tuna*US$34.00
Rice Vermicelli, Baby Bok Choy, Pickled Chili, Herb Pho Broth
Local Flounder PiccataUS$38.00
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$25.00
Green Meadow Farm Smoked Bacon Mayo, Bibb Lettuce, Tomato, Grilled Red Onion, Brioche, Truffle Parmesan Fries

Seasonal Sides

Sesame Steamed RiceUS$9.00
Spicy Linvilla Orchard Pear Slaw, Soy Sauce
Crispy Brussels SproutsUS$11.00
Pennsylvania Maple, Bacon
Fried PicklesUS$9.00
Garlic Panko Crusted, Spicy Mayo
Smokey Mac & CheeseUS$9.00
House Made Macaroni, Smoked Gouda, Butter Breadcrumbs
Truffle Parmesan FriesUS$10.00
Truffle Oil, Grana Padano, Chives
Country Mashed PotatoesUS$9.00
Mushroom Gravy, Chive

What 5,520 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

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

4.6

4.6 based on recent ratings

4.6Food
4.6Service
4.7Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Philadelphia
Most Booked

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

White Dog Cafe in University City offers a charming, dog-themed atmosphere with creative menus and consistently "excellent food." Diners appreciate the "friendly and attentive service" and the cozy setting, perfect for any occasion. While some dishes may vary, standout favorites like the lamb shank and diverse vegan options keep guests returning.

5,520 Reviews

J
Julie VIP
Washington DC3 reviews
1.0
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 1
2. Food 3
3. Service 1
4. Ambience 5
We waited for sometime before being offered water and even longer for a waiter to attend to us. Bread service wasn’t included and when we opted in to the 14 dollar bread service we were disappointed by the very small portion, it was essentially a very large dinner roll. The final insult was when I paid by credit card and only noticed the 3% up charge for using a cc when I went to sign the bill. They did point out the small print at the bottom of the menu at the sign in small print when you walk in in the dark vestibule as you walk in indicating same. We won’t be back despite loving the experience many times in the past.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
New York City3 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Very authentic local experience. Appetizers were fun with a selection for everyone. Flounder entree was perfectly cooked and very fresh. Service was attentive and friendly
Is this helpful?
M
Mary VIP
Philadelphia13 reviews
4.0
Dined 6 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
This location is always great with great staff. Eclectic decor and innovative cuisine. Lots of options & specials. I had the special pulled pork sandwich and it was delicious
Is this helpful?
P
PATRICIA
Philadelphia14 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 2, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had a grand time today! The food was great (as usual) the staff was nice and extremely accommodating. White Dog is always a good place to have a great time.
Is this helpful?
C
Catherine
Philadelphia7 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 1, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
As always, the White Dog Cafe near UPENN's campus is outstanding. Never disappointed.
Is this helpful?
P
Patricia L VIP
Philadelphia24 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 1, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 3
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great experience overall! The only issue was that the chicken fit my chicken & waffles was overcooked & inedible.
Is this helpful?
J
Jai
New York City2 reviews
5.0
Dined on February 27, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
White Dog Cafe has excellent food and drinks, a comfortable location, and excellent staff. I ate there by myself on a business trip, and the host thoughtfully moved my seat from a crowded, noisy room to a quieter room. I asked my waiter for a recommendation between the fish dishes, and instead of just recommending the most expensive dish, she recommended a less expensive one, which was delicious. Cool decor, cool people, cool vibes, delicious food and drink!
Is this helpful?
M
Maureen VIP
Philadelphia12 reviews
5.0
Dined on February 26, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
One of my favorite restaurants, I've been dining here for decades. I introduced it today to a 21-year-old co-worker who had never been. He ordered my favorite dish - Lamb Bolognese - and practically licked the bowl clean! He took pictures of his food and the marvelous dog-themed decor. Kevin S is an outstanding server. Very enjoyable and delicious experience.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner VIP
Baltimore2 reviews
5.0
Dined on February 23, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The White Dog was completely charming. The soups and salads we ordered were wonderful and staff was very professional and attentive.
Is this helpful?
J
Jodi
Philadelphia4 reviews
5.0
Dined on February 23, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Everything was perfect. It was packed when we arrived but they sat us right away. Our server was wonderful and so was our food. Would definitely go back for sure!
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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 4.6 stars by 5520 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.

Make a reservation

2 people

Mar 11, 2025

7:00 p.m.

Booked 76 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
Neighbourhood
University City
Hours of Operation
Daily 3:00 pm–4:00 pm Brunch Sat, Sun 9:00 am–3:00 pm Lunch Mon–Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Mon–Thu 4:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–9:30 pm Sun 4:00 pm–8:00 pm Happy Hour Mon–Fri 4:00 pm–6:00 pm
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, Takeout, 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

Make a reservation

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$14.00

Squash BisqueUS$13.00

Sandy Ridge Deviled EggsUS$12.00

Yellowfin Tuna Tartare*US$18.00

Wild Mushroom ToastUS$16.00

Crispy CauliflowerUS$16.00

Oysters on the Half*US$0.00

Spicy Lamb BologneseUS$16.00

Beet & Arugula SaladUS$14.00

Caesar SaladUS$14.00

Winter Harvest SaladUS$14.00

Entrees

Roasted Giannone Farms Half ChickenUS$29.00

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 Tuna*US$34.00

Local Flounder PiccataUS$38.00

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$25.00

Seasonal Sides

Sesame Steamed RiceUS$9.00

Crispy Brussels SproutsUS$11.00

Fried PicklesUS$9.00

Smokey Mac & CheeseUS$9.00

Truffle Parmesan FriesUS$10.00

Country Mashed PotatoesUS$9.00

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 reservations?

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Featured in

Philadelphia’s 12 most drop-dead gorgeous restaurants

Gift card