White Dog Café $$$

The success of this one-of-a-kind Philly [2] gem can be credited to owner and longtime community activist Judy Wicks, who lives in the upper floors of the White Dog’s University City brownstone.

The restaurant opened in 1983, proving that progressive and socially conscious business models can work. Wicks’ goal was not based purely on profit maximizing, but also on maintaining a positive relationship with the environment and the community—which unfortunately remains a novel concept in the business world today.

An advanced, first-of-its-kind in the city composting system in the backyard helps reduce and efficiently dispose of the restaurant’s waste. Local farmers deliver organic, humanely treated, hormone- and pesticide-free ingredients each week, so the menu changes regularly with the seasons.

Many classic American dishes have an interesting international flair. Visit for lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, or drinks and some of the best burgers in town at the bar.

Check the website to find out more about the many events at the restaurant.