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Solarium - White Dog Cafe - University City, Philadelphia, PA

White Dog Cafe - University City

4.7
4.7
5472 Reviews
$30 and under
Contemporary American
A photo of White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant

White Dog Cafe - University City

4.7
$30 and under
Contemporary American
University City

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 76 times today
  • Neighborhood 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
  • Neighborhood
    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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Menu

To Share

  • Bread Basket$13.00

    House Made Milk Bread, Sea Salt Butter, Spicy Honey, B & B Pickles

    • Roasted Garlic Hummus$17.00

      Baby Carrot Chermoula, Grilled Pita, Lavash Chips

      • Goat Cheese Whipped Ricotta$18.00

        Roasted Local Pears, Grapes, Balsamic, Spiced Hazelnuts, Grilled Sourdough

        • Foot Long Hot Dog$23.00

          All Beef, Buttery Bun, Local & House Made Condiments

          • Snack Board$23.00

            Smoking Goose Mortadella, Pepperoni, Pepper Shooters, Local Cheese, Chips, Deviled Eggs, Fruits, Nuts, Pickles

            • Local Artisan Cheeses$19.00

              Choice of Three, Seasonal Accompaniments

              • Buffalo Chicken Dip$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 Soup$13.00

                  Truffle Crème Fraîche, Chives

                  • Autumn Squash Bisque$13.00

                    Roasted Pumpkin Seeds, Chili Oil

                    • Sandy Ridge Deviled Eggs$12.00

                      Cage Free Eggs, Chefs Choice of Fillings

                      • Yellow Fin Tuna Tartare*$18.00

                        Avocado, Sriracha, Sesame Soy Emulsion, Micro Cilantro

                        • Wild Mushroom Toast$16.00

                          Pickled Shallots, Maplebrook Farm Stracciatella, Grilled Pumpernickel

                          • Crispy Cauliflower$15.00

                            Kung Pao Sauce, Scallions, Chilis, Toasted Peanuts

                            • Oysters on the Half*$0.00

                              Cocktail Sauce, Lemon, Mignonette

                              • MP$0.00

                            • Spicy Lamb Bolognese$16.00

                              House Made Rigatoni, Jersey Crushed Tomatoes, Wilted Spinach, Basil Ricotta

                              • Beet & Arugula Salad$14.00

                                Shellbark Hollow Goat Cheese, Herb Crème Fraîche, Crispy Polenta 'Croutons'

                                • Caesar Salad$14.00

                                  Romaine, Red Endive, Crouton, Parmesan Crisp, Lemon Anchovy Dressing

                                  • Fall Harvest Salad$14.00

                                    Broccoli, Cauliflower, Apples, Craisins, Pepitas, Pecans, Blue Cheese, Local Greens, Maple- Dijon Vinaigrette

                                    Entrees

                                    • Roasted Giannone Farms Half Chicken$29.00

                                      Broccolini, Smokey Mac & Cheese, Herby Chicken Jus

                                      • Fall Vegetable Arepas$22.00

                                        Poblano Peppers, Black Bean, Sweet Potato Salsa, Queso Blanco, Avocado Crema, Salsa Roja

                                        • Asian BBQ Pork Ribs$29.00

                                          Spicy Linvilla Orchard Pear Slaw, Sesame Crusted Steamed Rice

                                          • La Belle Farm Roasted Half Duck$46.00

                                            Shoestring Fries, Blood Orange Sweet & Sour Sauce, Grilled Scallions

                                            • Blackened Cajun Catfish$28.00

                                              Blue Moon Acres Rice Pilaf, Pickled Tinkerbell Peppers, Crispy Okra, Petites Herbs, Shrimp Étouffée

                                              • Spicy Thai Steak Salad*$28.00

                                                Chilled Tenderloin Tips, Udon Noodles, Shiitake Mushrooms, Peanuts, Baby Greens, Julienne Vegetables, Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette

                                                • Ivy City Smoked Salmon Chopped Salad$27.00

                                                  Local Greens, Tomato, Pickled Tinkerbell Peppers, Citrus, Everything Bagel Spice, Pumpernickel Croutons, Creamy Horseradish Dressing

                                                  • Pecan Crusted Verlasso Salmon$30.00

                                                    Maple Bourbon Glaze, Roasted Yams, Apples, Eagle Road Farm Lacinato Kale

                                                    • Sesame Seared Yellowfin Tuna$34.00

                                                      Rice Vermicelli, Baby Bok Choy, Pickled Chili, Herb Pho Broth

                                                      • Local Flounder Piccata$28.00

                                                        Lemon Caper Butter, Creamy Crab & Broccoli Orzo

                                                        • Green Meadow Farm Beef Meatloaf$29.00

                                                          Country Style Mashed Potatoes, Swiss Chard, Mushroom Gravy

                                                          • Meadow Run Farm Lamb Shank$43.00

                                                            Honeynut Squash, Tomato, Olives, Creamy Parmesan Polenta

                                                            • Black Rock Farm NY Strip*$56.00

                                                              Grilled 14 oz Black Angus Steak, Red Wine Shallot Butter, House Steak Sauce, Cipollini Onion, Fingerling Potatoes

                                                              • Vegan Cheese Burger$25.00

                                                                Impossible Patty, Epic! Spicy Pickle, Tomato, Onion, Lettuce, BBQ Aioli, Sweet Potato Bun, French Fries

                                                                • White Dog 'Double Cheddar' Burger*$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

                                                                              Last updated: October 18, 2024

                                                                              What 5,472 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
                                                                              • 4.6Service
                                                                              • 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!

                                                                              5,472 Reviews

                                                                              1. Maryellen

                                                                                Philadelphia

                                                                                2 reviews

                                                                                5.0

                                                                                2 reviews

                                                                                Dined 5 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?

                                                                              2. Amy

                                                                                New York City

                                                                                79 reviews

                                                                                5.0

                                                                                79 reviews

                                                                                Dined 5 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?

                                                                              3. Liz

                                                                                Philadelphia

                                                                                1 review

                                                                                3.0

                                                                                1 review

                                                                                Dined 6 days ago

                                                                                1. Overall 3
                                                                                2. Food 3
                                                                                3. Service 3
                                                                                4. Ambience 5
                                                                                Convenient to Penn Live Arts. Pricey for the experience.

                                                                                Is this helpful?

                                                                              4. Deb

                                                                                New York City

                                                                                3 reviews

                                                                                vip
                                                                                4.0

                                                                                3 reviews

                                                                                Dined on December 1, 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 5 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?

                                                                              5. Elizabeth

                                                                                Philadelphia

                                                                                2 reviews

                                                                                5.0

                                                                                2 reviews

                                                                                Dined on November 30, 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?

                                                                              6. Ali

                                                                                Philadelphia

                                                                                4 reviews

                                                                                4.0

                                                                                4 reviews

                                                                                Dined on November 30, 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?

                                                                              7. Marinella

                                                                                Philadelphia

                                                                                4 reviews

                                                                                vip
                                                                                5.0

                                                                                4 reviews

                                                                                Dined on November 29, 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 5 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?

                                                                              8. Alex

                                                                                New York City

                                                                                1 review

                                                                                5.0

                                                                                1 review

                                                                                Dined on November 24, 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 5 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?

                                                                              9. Joel

                                                                                Philadelphia

                                                                                7 reviews

                                                                                vip
                                                                                5.0

                                                                                7 reviews

                                                                                Dined on November 24, 2024

                                                                                1. Overall 5
                                                                                2. Food 5
                                                                                3. Service 5
                                                                                4. Ambience 5
                                                                                White Dog Cafe did not disappoint. We had a dog lover friend from out of town join us, and we all had a wonderful time. Service, food and ambiance all excellent.

                                                                                Is this helpful?

                                                                              10. amy

                                                                                Philadelphia

                                                                                1 review

                                                                                5.0

                                                                                1 review

                                                                                Dined on November 23, 2024

                                                                                1. Overall 5
                                                                                2. Food 5
                                                                                3. Service 4
                                                                                4. Ambience 5
                                                                                The food and service were great! I would have liked if the waiter slowed down a bit when telling us about the specials as none of us at the table really understood him

                                                                                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 5472 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.

                                                                              A photo of White Dog Cafe - University City restaurant

                                                                              White Dog Cafe - University City

                                                                              4.7
                                                                              $30 and under
                                                                              Contemporary American
                                                                              University City

                                                                              Make a reservation

                                                                              2 people
                                                                              7:00 PM
                                                                              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
                                                                              • Neighborhood
                                                                                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

                                                                              Featured in

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                                                                              Gift card

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

                                                                              Send a gift card
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