Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe

- 808 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85034

For over sixty years, Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe has been a cornerstone of Phoenix's culinary landscape, serving up genuine, classic Southern soul food in the heart of Downtown. Established in 1964 by the courageous Elizabeth White, this family-run cafe is more than just a restaurant; it is a living piece of Arizona history and a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and home-style cooking.

The cafe’s original recipes, proudly handed down through generations, ensure an authentic and unique experience that transports diners back in time. Mrs. White’s takes pride in its mission to provide hearty portions of comforting meals, staying true to its founding principle—the 'Golden Rule'—of treating every customer with respect and honesty, regardless of their background. In a cozy and casual atmosphere, locals, groups, and tourists gather to savor dishes that are famously seasoned, beautiful off the plate, and cooked with love.

Specializing in American, Southern, and Soul Food, the menu is built around timeless classics that satisfy the deepest cravings for comfort. The venue itself is steeped in history, having welcomed generations of Phoenicians as well as notable figures, including politicians and celebrities. While the founding matriarch, Elizabeth White, is now over 100 years old, her son and granddaughter carry on the tradition, ensuring that the essence of her original vision—serving the best fried chicken and sides in town—remains intact.

Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe is centrally located at 808 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, USA, placing it in a busy and easily accessible part of Downtown Phoenix, near the city's sports venues and business district. Its address on East Jefferson Street makes it a convenient stop for lunch, dinner, or a quick bite for those working or visiting the area.

Accessibility is a priority, with the cafe featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating, ensuring that everyone can comfortably enjoy the soul food experience. For guests traveling by car, there is a dedicated free parking lot as well as free street parking available, which is a notable convenience in the downtown area. Customers should be aware that on game days or during major downtown events, parking availability and cost may fluctuate.

Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe offers traditional dining options alongside services designed for modern convenience:

• Dine-in: Enjoy table service for lunch, dinner, and dessert within the cafe's quiet, cozy, and historic atmosphere.
• Takeout: Meals are prepared for customers who wish to pick up and enjoy their food at home or work.
• Delivery: The full menu of comfort food and soul food classics is available for delivery to the surrounding Phoenix area.
• Catering: Specialized catering services are provided for groups and events, allowing the unique taste of Mrs. White's to be shared at larger gatherings.
• Quick Bite: The menu offers selections perfect for a quick stop, though service speed can vary, especially during peak hours.
• Table Service: All seating options, including the main dining areas, feature friendly and attentive table service.
• High Chairs: The cafe is good for kids and provides high chairs for children.

The highlights of Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe center around its authentic food, rich history, and commitment to the dining experience:

• Authentic Southern Soul Food: The core feature is the deeply flavorful, home-style Southern cooking, faithfully executed using original, decades-old family recipes. This is a local specialty that has been recognized on national platforms.
• Legendary Fried Chicken: The Golden Brown Southern Fried Chicken is the signature item, often cited by local and national critics as some of the best fried chicken in America, known for its crispy skin and moist, succulent meat.
• Historic and Cozy Atmosphere: The cafe maintains a historic, casual, and cozy atmosphere that feels like a step back in time, featuring unpretentious decor and walls adorned with local memorabilia and photos of past celebrity guests.
• Must-Try Sides and Desserts: The side dishes, such as the ooey-gooey Mac And Cheese, tender Cabbage, and flavorful Black Eye Peas, are prepared to be hearty accompaniments, not afterthoughts. Homemade desserts like Pies and Homemade Cakes (including famous peach cobbler) complete the traditional Southern meal.
• Community Pillar: Since 1964, the cafe has operated as a Black-owned, family-run business, serving as a beacon of hospitality and community inclusion, especially during the segregated period of the mid-20th century in Phoenix.
• Great Coffee and Classic Drinks: Beyond the food, the cafe is noted for serving a great cup of coffee, alongside classic Southern beverages like Kool Aid and Sweet Ice Tea.
• Good for All Crowds: The atmosphere is suitable for a diverse crowd, popular with locals, groups, tourists, and solo diners seeking genuine comfort food.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts all major payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

To plan your visit or inquire about catering, use the following contact information for Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe:

Address: 808 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, USA

Phone: (602) 262-9256

Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe is an absolute must-visit for Arizona residents and visitors alike, and choosing this establishment means choosing a piece of Phoenix’s soul. It is worth choosing because it embodies authentic, time-honored soul food tradition that is increasingly rare to find. The quality of the food—particularly the perfectly cooked Fried Chicken, the tender Pond Raised Catfish, and the rich Smothered Pork Chops—is a profound expression of culinary heritage that has stood the test of time, drawing crowds for over half a century.

While the service can occasionally be slow when the cafe is busy, this is often seen as part of the home-style, unhurried experience. Customers are encouraged to embrace the relaxed pace, knowing that the flavor and authenticity of the meal are worth the wait. Every dish is a full, generous plate served with your choice of two classic sides—such as the delicious Mac and Cheese or Green Beans With Potatoes—ensuring you leave satisfied. Choosing Mrs. White's is not just about getting a quick meal; it is about participating in a celebrated local tradition and supporting a historic, family-run business that truly lives up to its name.

Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe

808 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, USA