What’s Clean
At White Dog Cafe, local sourcing of clean ingredients is the priority. Most of the produce is local and organically grown, ask for more specifics. The majority of the seafood is wild-caught, except for the salmon which is sustainably farmed and not fed-GMOs. The burger beef is pasture-raised and grain-finished with non-GMO local grains. The meats and seafood are fresh, not frozen. The chicken is local and pasture-raised but not guaranteed to be organic, however, the tofu is organic. Much of the menu is scratch-made except for the desserts, pickles, and bread and the seafood and meats are fresh, not frozen. Gluten-free beer and organic wines are available as well. Dishes containing shellfish, wheat, dairy, and nut allergens are clearly marked throughout the menu.
What’s Served
White Dog Cafe offers starters, entrees, sides, and desserts. Starters include such dishes as Kung Pao Cauliflower, Smokey Mac & Cheese, and Kennett Square Mushroom Soup. A sampling of entrees offered are Vegetable Arepas, a BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, and Seared Yellow Fin Tuna. Dessert, an extensive wine list, as well as beer, mocktails, and cocktails, are also offered.
What I Ordered
Unfortunately, I visited during Covid and this location was temporarily closed. I did dine at the Haverford location and ordered the Green Meadow Farm Double-Cheddar Burger topped with grilled red onions and bibb lettuce. This burger was a 2 fister and quite tasty on a toasty brown bun, which was delicious. All in all a good burger, not award-winning, but I’d certainly order it again. Of course, I had to try the accompanying Truffle Parmesan Fries, which were a tad on the oily side but otherwise outstanding.
The Vibe
The University City White Dog Cafe is located on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania. The restaurant occupies 3 Victorian Brownstone buildings that they completely renovated. Several dining rooms are spread through with different decor in each setting. You’ll even find a wine cellar and porch, both open for dining.
The Takeaway
White Dog Cafe does a great job of supporting and sourcing locally grown and raised clean foods. The menu offers a fantastic variety with something for everyone. They have 3 sister locations in Wayne, Glen Mills, and Haverford, PA. Happy hour is Monday – Friday from 4 – 6 pm.
