White Dog Cafe

White Dog Cafe Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant: In 2009, the flagship White Dog location, once the legendary seat of West Philadelphia social activism, was turned over to owner Marty Grims, who has since gone on to open two additional White Dogs on the Main Line. The Haverford outpost strikes a decidedly preppier pose than the shabby chic original, with faux taxidermy, richly upholstered dining chairs, tea-stained mirrors and brightly patterned fabrics. What Grims and company have retained is the restaurant’s emphasis on seasonal, local fare, and in the process deliver one of the Western suburbs’ most solid dining experiences.

Food & Drinks: Chefs Zach Grainda and Mike Selser’s straight-ahead cookery is both comforting and freshly styled. Baked Maryland crab dip lightens up a classic with preserved lemon, while smoked salmon is served over homemade tater tots with dill crème fraîche. Not to be missed is the Kennett Square mushroom soup with a luxuriant swirl of truffle oil or the pan-seared branzino with tricolor cauliflower and crispy Brussels sprouts leaves. Or opt for one of the sustainable steaks or juicy farm-sourced burger with grilled red onion and smoked bacon mayo. For dessert, try the vanilla rice pudding with port poached figs or the caramel apple pot de crème. The wine list mainly sticks to American makers, and a nice selection of local craft beers and “farm to table” cocktails supplement the liquid refreshments.