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:iving Room with the Blue Dog Painting - White Dog Cafe - University City, Philadelphia, PA
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White Dog Cafe - University City

4.6
4.6
5154 Reviews
$30 and under
Contemporary American
Top Tags:
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.

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2 people
9:00 PM
Booked 71 times today

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.
  • Private party contact
    Private Dining Coordinator: (484) 451-7414
  • 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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What 5,154 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
  • 4.6Ambience
  • 4.2Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

  • Philadelphia

    Contemporary American

  • Philadelphia

    Most Booked

5,154 Reviews

  1. Bonsgoutsdanslesquartiers

    Philadelphia

    6 reviews

    4.0

    6 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    Overall4Food4Service5Ambience4
    A West Philadelphia staple. Very good food, quite fresh. My two (slight) complaints: It seems to me that the kitchen has made a decision to be less adventurous with seasonings. In the past, I have marveled at the use of herbs and spices in fish and vegetable dishes. Also, the acoustics in the upstairs dining room made it a little difficult to have a good conversation.

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  2. AllisonK

    Jacksonville

    1 review

    vip
    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 4 days ago

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Our server was excellent and the food was delicious.

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  3. DanielR

    Philadelphia

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience4
    great food and atmosphere, nice service, quick enough

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  4. PhilipA

    New York Area

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Classic University City venue consistently delivers

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  5. NICOLES

    Chicago

    6 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Amazing food and service as always with the most beautiful and unique atmosphere

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  6. CindyS

    New York Area

    15 reviews

    5.0

    15 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    I have never been disappointed when rating at the White Dog. The whipped ricotta stuffed shells were delicious!

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  7. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Excellent food and service! Love the cozy, warm vibes. Very family friendly.

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  8. Hostess

    New York Area

    3 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 7 days ago

    Overall2Food4Service2Ambience1
    We went there for dinner at 5:45 on a Friday night and were told after our entrées arrived. There was a two hour limit on the table and we needed to finish up. it took about 20 minutes to get a second glass of wine served so I don’t really think that the clock should be ticking when spending $140 on dinner for two people to have a running

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  9. cherylu

    New York Area

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 7 days ago

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    As usual White Dog Cafe is a winner. We had the winter menu. The roasted cauliflower soup is amazing.

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  10. FrancinaG

    Philadelphia

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 30, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Visited for a non fussy 25th anniversary dinner with just the hubs. Food was fresh and well seasoned, drinks were amazing and the staff beyond curteous. I had the butter nut squash ravioli - delicious!

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  11. LivV

    Columbus

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    Overall4Food5Service5Ambience2
    The food and service at white dog was great! We loved the lamb bolognese and the drinks. The area we were seated was very small though and people were constantly having to squeeze by, bumping into our table (to the point that things got knocking off the table on two occasions). Otherwise, we really liked the experience.

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  12. Atgu

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Excellent food and great service. We went to the university city location.

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  13. ShannonR

    San Francisco

    8 reviews

    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Absolutely charming restaurant on an absolutely charming street. Large space that feels like a small, intimate space... lots of sectioned rooms. The menu was great. I had the meatloaf - so tender and flavorful... I would definitely order again. We also ordered the Milk Bread, Bao buns and hamburgers. Everything was great - food, ambiance and service. Highly recommend.

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  14. kenplanner

    New York Area

    9 reviews

    5.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service4Ambience5
    nice atmosphere; very good food; solid service from server

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  15. KitKat

    Philadelphia

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    Overall3Food2Service3Ambience4
    Ordered the omelet. The filling was cold and the home fries were soggy and lukewarm. There was an up charge for using the credit card that I was not notified of (though it could have been written somewhere on the menu and I didn’t notice it). All in all I expect better of a restaurant at this price point and with the reputation White Dog enjoys.

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  16. JaaonC

    Denver

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 28, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    excellent soup, good salads, great service, cute decor

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  17. ColleenM

    Philadelphia

    21 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    21 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    Overall3Food5Service1Ambience3
    We sat in a room that was freezing and I am never cold. The food was excellent although pricey but the server was never around. We had to call her over to order and for drink refills.

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  18. lllindamin

    Atlantic City

    15 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    15 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    Overall4Food4Service4Ambience4
    I had appreciated the attention and effort after a minor issue on a previous visit. They more than compensated for that, and showed their true colors with good service, good food and a friendly staff. Thank you.

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  19. dougefresh

    Philadelphia

    44 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    44 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    So consistent for so long. A must if you are in the area. The pork shank special was out of this world. Flavors were exceptional, and cooked to absolute perfection.

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  20. DeeD

    New York Area

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Beautiful decorations. Very welcoming friendly staff. The outside looks like a postcard.

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  21. CharlesK

    Philadelphia

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on November 24, 2023

    Overall5Food4Service5Ambience5
    Waiter was excellent - great atmosphere - food was good

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  22. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 20, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    I love White Dog Cafe (this is my favorite location) and I’m never disappointed!

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  23. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Nice scenery, food was great the Nashville hot chicken and French toast went so well together autumn Bellini pomegranate was great.

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  24. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    19 reviews

    5.0

    19 reviews

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    This is just an all-around great spot. I first came here 25 years ago when I was in college and recently decided to try it again after moving back to Philly. Although it’s under new ownership, it still delivers. And if you love dogs, this place is a must - you will love the decor and ambience!

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  25. wheelyfoodie

    Philadelphia

    28 reviews

    4.0

    28 reviews

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    Overall4Food5Service4Ambience3
    Dependable. Reliable. Not cheap - but worth it! Go To location for Annenberg programs when I want quality food & a good experience within walking distance of the venue.

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  26. Larry

    New York Area

    4 reviews

    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 14, 2023

    Overall4Food3Service4Ambience4
    Great spot with a lively bar and several smaller dining rooms that are quiet so you can have a nice conversation. Apps and most of our entrees were excellent, however, we had one of our group get an expensive lukewarm steak and cold au gratin potatoes

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  27. Ashley

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 14, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Always a classic, while keeping it fresh. My favorite spot in U City!

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  28. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 13, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    The restaurant is well decorated and the ambiance is fun. The food was delicious and my server was super nice.

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  29. Rebecca

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 13, 2023

    Overall4Food2Service5Ambience5
    Wanted to give a glowing review as food is yummy and fun ambiance but I ordered the salmon and it came out severely undercooked- twice. I changed orders and the trout was great but not acceptable for this to happen more than once in a seating.

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  30. Scott

    Washington DC

    38 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    38 reviews

    Dined on November 13, 2023

    Overall3Food4Service3Ambience1
    I've been to the White Dog many times and generally love it. But this was the first time where they seated us in a section that felt like Sibera. The hostess walked us very, very far, and down to the lower level, where it felt like we were inside an abandoned Chinese restaurant. I had no idea that space even existed, but sitting there kind of ruined the whole experience. It's this very strange space with old-timey French bistro lamps, green tropical floral print booths, and mirrored ceilings. It felt like a downscale restaurant in Beijing from 1980. Plus, it took forever to get our food, maybe because the waiter had to walk so far to get to the kitchen. I'm a Penn alum and have been coming to White Dog for 25 years and thought I'd be a lifer. But I would never let them seat me in that section again, it's like a totally different restaurant and not at all why someone would go to White Dog. It honestly felt like scam to be seated there... liked you booked a room at the Westin hotel and then you get to your room and it's decorated like a Chuck E. Cheese kids birthday party room. White Dog really needs to renovate that area if they are going to seat people there, otherwise, stop using it.

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  31. BruceS

    San Francisco

    5 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on November 13, 2023

    Overall2Food2Service3Ambience3
    No accommodation on a few simple requests Appetizer and entree delivered at same time Plates slipped on table top

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  32. LarryB

    Philadelphia

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 13, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    My friend and I were meeting for dinner, having not seen each other in 45 years! Our table was assigned a location where we could talk, which we really appreciated. Our server, Allyson (sp?) was super friendly and helpful. The deviled egg appetizer was new to me, and DELICIOUS. I had the meatloaf, my friend had a beet salad. Nary a morsel was left on our plates! My wife even gave the restaurant 'extra points' when I picture I sent showed all the dogs on the wall! Overall, a memorable evening made more so by the great staff at White Dog Cafe!

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  33. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on November 12, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    We’ll be back. Great service and great food. Our whole family loved it.

    White Dog Cafe - University CityResponded 5 days ago

    We are so pleased to hear that you received 5 star food and service on your most recent visit with us! Please come back and dine with us again soon, we look forward to it! Warmly, Kate Duffy General Manager

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  34. KristinD

    Philadelphia

    11 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    We come to White Dog Cafe - University City yearly, sometimes twice during our visit. The food is always fresh and delicious. Staff are extremely gracious and kind. We absolutely love our visits and cannot wait until we return. This past time, I had just completed my first 1/2 marathon during the Rock Run weekend and I had my medals which the staff noticed and they were so kind and congratulated me and even surprised me with a hot chocolate as I mentioned I was thinking of having one. The decor is super cute especially being a dog mama myself. 5 stars for sure all around.

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  35. Yorkville

    New York Area

    57 reviews

    vip
    1.0

    57 reviews

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    Overall1Food1Service5Ambience3
    We were a party of 7 last Saturday for brunch and sorry to say the meal for all of us was overall mediocre. And that might be a stretch. I must say that the server was wonderful. Sorry that the food was not. Not one person at our table truly enjoyed their meal. I had the Ceasar salad with salmon. The lettuce was so pale and not at all crisp. Croutons seemed like they were boxed (no excuse for that) way too much Parmesan cheese and a dressing that lacked any oomph. Even my salmon was overcooked. The consensus of the group was that the food was sub-par and no one would go back. Too bad. We were all looking forward to a great meal at what used to be a great restaurant.

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  36. SuzanneF

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 9, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service5Ambience5
    Making reservations was simple and easy. The whole experience from being greeted, seated and waited on was excellent!

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  37. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on November 8, 2023

    Overall5Food5Service3Ambience5
    Fabulous organic food. The grain bowl was delicious

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  38. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    1.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 7, 2023

    Overall1Food2Service1Ambience3
    Terrible experience our party of 4 had this evening. Service was horrible. Our reservation was at 6:30 and we were sat promptly. It was 6:50 and we were still not waited on and had to call over the manager even to get drinks in. The Paloma I had was not good, it was too heavy on one ingredient that I can’t place my finger on. My coworker also had the Paloma and thought the same. My catfish entree was undercooked, as was the rock shrimp that came with it. My coworkers said their burger were just ok. Overall terrible service and bad food quality. Will not be back and do not recommend.

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  39. k8lowe

    Philadelphia

    20 reviews

    2.0

    20 reviews

    Dined on November 5, 2023

    Overall2Food2Service2Ambience1
    We were old school chums with fond memories of dining at White Dog decades ago. We were back in Philly for a mini reunion. Going to White Dog for brunch on Sunday seemed the perfect way to end our time together. I’d made reservations on Monday or Tuesday. When we go there, the place as jammed and loud. We asked if there was any place we could stash our two suitcases. There was not. We took them with us and were led up some stairs, through two more dining rooms, and down a long flight to a table directly below an air conditioning duct. I sat in the hanging basket chair and put on my sun glasses since the curtain on the window was entirely ineffective. Our waitress eventually appeared. I ordered coffee, which eventually came. I had to ask for cream. It came finally after my coffee was just about stone cold—very effective air conditioning duct. When I asked for a refill I made a point of requesting cream at the same time. It did not help. No cream. I requested it again when the coffee arrived and it again was delayed, arriving just as the coffee turned cold. The food we ordered was indifferent. The server never asked how we were doing. We have no plans to ever dine at the White Dog ever again.

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  40. Cupkeyk

    Philadelphia

    16 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    16 reviews

    Dined on November 5, 2023

    Overall4Food4Service4Ambience4
    Went here for brunch, and since it's in University City, you will see very energetic and enthusiastic young people in line. Glad we had a reservation, but still it took time to get us seated. The place was buzzing. We ordered the Pork Belly Benedict with a side for Biscuits and Gravy, Breakfast "Pot Pie" and a Creme Brulle for dessert. The food was great. The pork belly benedict was unique but they could be more generous with the hollandaise sauce. Love the creme brulee to finish our dining experience. We'll be definitely going back.

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Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers

  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

You can order delivery directly from White Dog Cafe - University City using the Order Online button. White Dog Cafe - University City also 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 5154 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
9:00 PM
Booked 71 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
  • 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.
  • Private party contact
    Private Dining Coordinator: (484) 451-7414
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Send gift cards instantly by email or print to present in person.

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