The White Dog Cafe in Philadelphia, PA: Spirits & Séances with Occult History

This week’s haunted hotspot takes us to one of Philadelphia’s most intriguing paranormal restaurants — the White Dog Cafe in University City. Housed inside three historic brownstones, this café has a past steeped in mysticism. One of the buildings was once home to Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, a 19th-century occultist and co-founder of the Theosophical Society. Known for hosting séances and exploring the supernatural, Blavatsky’s home reportedly became a hub for spiritual activity. Since becoming a café in 1983, the location has embraced its eerie reputation. Staff and visitors report strange occurrences, including decorations that seem to move on their own — something many attribute to Helena’s lingering presence. But she may not be alone. Legend says a spirit named John King haunted the home even during her lifetime. Between séance lore, ghostly décor disturbances, and lingering spirits enjoying a drink, this Philadelphia café serves up more than just great food.