White Dog Cafe: Farm-to-Table Done Right Since 1983
We sat down with Sydney Grims, Director of Business Development at White Dog Cafe, to learn how this iconic restaurant pioneered the farm-to-table movement and continues to lead with sustainability and community-focused dining.
White Dog Cafe is more than just a restaurant; it is a cherished institution within the Philadelphia community. With five locations, including a flagship in University City, White Dog Cafe has established itself as a beloved dining destination since its inception in 1983. Founded by Judy Wicks, the restaurant was one of the pioneers of the farm-to-table movement at a time when such concepts were virtually unheard of. Since the Fearless Restaurant Group acquired the original location in 2009, they’ve expanded thoughtfully while keeping the spirit of the original restaurant intact. We recently sat down with Sydney Grims, Director of Business Development at White Dog Cafe, to discuss the restaurant’s history, its approach to sustainability, and her best advice for aspiring restaurateurs.
Commitment to Local and Sustainable Sourcing
White Dog Cafe’s commitment to local sourcing is at the heart of its operation, thanks to founder Judy Wicks. “There were no farm-to-table restaurants at that time,” Sydney explained. “Judy was working with local farmers to bring their produce, meat, and seafood, as well as sustainable biodynamic wine, beer, and distillery options to the restaurant.” This early commitment to supporting local purveyors helped boost now-iconic names like Dogfish Head Brewery and Stoudts Brewing Company shared Sydney.
This dedication to sustainability is not merely a marketing gimmick. The team ensures that each menu change reflects the seasonal availability of ingredients, allowing them to maintain high standards of freshness and flavor. While many corporate restaurants may shy away from changing menus frequently for the sake of consistency, White Dog embraces the challenge, “we change our menu at least eight times a year—sometimes up to 16,” allowing them to showcase the best of what local farms have to offer.
A Diverse Menu for Every Palate
White Dog Cafe's menu is a celebration of local, sustainably sourced ingredients, with standout dishes that have earned a loyal following. So, what about the dish that put them on the map? "Our burger has been voted the best in Philadelphia multiple times," Sydney shared, highlighting its locally sourced meat and high-quality ingredients.
When it comes to personal favorites, Sydney points to the Kennett Square Mushroom Soup, a beloved item that returns on the menu year-after-year. “Even people who aren’t fans of mushrooms come back for it,” she said. The soup’s popularity is such that it’s sold by the quart for takeout.
What sets White Dog Cafe apart is its ability to adapt its menu to reflect the local community's tastes. For example, the University City location near the University of Pennsylvania has a large health-conscious and vegan clientele, so vegan options are a bigger focus there. Meanwhile, in Haverford, the menu leans more toward local favorites like corned beef and pastrami. “Every restaurant is special to its neighborhood,” Sydney explained.
Building Community Connections
One of the unique aspects of White Dog Cafe is its strong connection to the community. With locations near several universities, the restaurant attracts a diverse mix of customers, from students to professors. Sydney emphasizes, "Our restaurants are not just for students; we also serve faculty, local residents, and visitors from out of town. Our goal is to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for everyone."
A Family Legacy in the Restaurant Business
White Dog Cafe is part of the Fearless Restaurants group, a family-owned and operated business. Sydney is a fourth-generation restaurateur, following in the footsteps of her father, who bought White Dog in 2009 from Judy Wicks. “My dad saw that it was a special restaurant” and decided to take it over, Sydney shared. Since then, the family has expanded the brand organically, opening new locations in the Philadelphia suburbs, with the most recent one in Chester Springs in 2024.
The newest location is particularly special, housed in a historic farmhouse that was once part of the Underground Railroad. “We invested over $10 million into the build-out, which is unheard of in the restaurant business,” Sydney said, underscoring the family’s commitment to preserving history while creating a unique dining experience.
Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
For those looking to enter the restaurant industry, Sydney offers invaluable advice: "Be resilient and have a passion for making people happy. Understand that it’s a grind every single day, and you need to have high standards." She encourages aspiring restaurateurs to gain experience in the field, particularly in reputable establishments, to prepare for the realities of restaurant ownership.
White Dog Cafe stands as a testament to the power of community, sustainability, and a commitment to quality. With a legacy spanning nearly 40 years, the restaurant continues to thrive under the guidance of dedicated leaders like Sydney Grims, ensuring that every meal served is a reflection of the values that have made White Dog a beloved institution in Philadelphia.