The Golden Rule: 5 Shocking Secrets Behind Mrs. White's 60-Year-Old Soul Food Empire

The legacy of Mrs. White's Golden Rule Cafe is more than just soul food; it is a powerful story of resilience, community, and the true meaning of its name. As of late 2024, this Phoenix institution continues to thrive, a testament to the iron will and culinary genius of its founder, Elizabeth White, who recently celebrated her 101st birthday. The restaurant, which opened its doors during a pivotal moment in American history, has become a landmark that attracts everyone from local regulars to global celebrities, and its recent spotlight on a major reality television show has brought its incredible history back into the public eye.

Opened in 1964, the same year the Civil Rights Act was passed, the cafe has served as a beacon of Southern home-style cooking in downtown Phoenix for nearly six decades. The food, the atmosphere, and the remarkable story of Mrs. White herself make this a must-visit destination. The cafe's continued operation under the family's guidance, even as its matriarch steps back from day-to-day duties, ensures that its "Golden Rule" ethos—treating others as you wish to be treated—lives on in every plate of famous Southern Fried Chicken.

The Culinary Legend: Elizabeth White's Complete Biography and Profile

The heart and soul of the Golden Rule Cafe is Elizabeth J. White, a true culinary and historical figure in Arizona. Her journey from Texas to Phoenix and her subsequent establishment of a landmark restaurant is an inspiring American success story.

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• Full Name: Elizabeth J. White
• Role: Founder and Owner of Mrs. White's Golden Rule Cafe (Original name: Golden Rule Cafe)
• Origin: Texas, USA
• Move to Phoenix: Moved to Phoenix, Arizona, as a single mother of four.
• Cafe Opening Date: 1964 (The same year the Civil Rights Act was signed into law).
• Age Status: A centenarian, recently celebrated her 101st birthday (as of recent updates).
• Key Family Members: Her son, Larry White, has taken on the managerial and co-owner role, continuing the family tradition. Her grandson is also involved in the business.
• Historical Context: Opened the cafe in a segregated part of downtown Phoenix, establishing it as a welcoming community hub.
• Notable Recognition: Honored with a commendation from Governor Katie Hobbs on February 21, 2023, for her contributions to the community and Arizona history.
• Current Status: No longer involved in the day-to-day operations, but remains the proud owner and matriarch of the establishment.

The Phoenix Institution: History and The True Meaning of "Golden Rule"

Mrs. White's Golden Rule Cafe is not just a place to eat; it is a living piece of Phoenix's history. Its longevity and cultural significance are rooted deeply in the principles that Mrs. White brought with her from Texas.

A Landmark of Resilience Since 1964

When Elizabeth White opened her cafe, initially named the Golden Rule Cafe, in 1964, Phoenix was a different city. The area was segregated, and the restaurant served as a vital community space in downtown Phoenix. Mrs. White’s intention was simple: to treat every customer with respect and kindness, embodying the biblical Golden Rule. The food, rooted in traditional Southern soul food, was packed with delicious flavor and served in a cozy, home-style atmosphere.

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The presence of Elizabeth White was so impactful and meaningful to the community that people naturally began referring to the establishment as "Mrs. White's" Golden Rule Cafe, a name that stuck and cemented her personal connection to the business. For decades, the cafe has been a safe haven and a culinary destination, serving up comfort food that transcends racial and social boundaries.

The Celebrity Clientele and Community Impact

Over its nearly 60-year run, the cafe has attracted a remarkable list of famous patrons, a testament to the quality of its cooking and the warmth of its hospitality. Notable figures who have enjoyed the Southern cooking include political leaders like Senator John McCain and Reverend Jesse Jackson, as well as sports legends from the Phoenix Suns and beyond, such as Alvan Adams, Charles Barkley, and Devin Booker. This diverse clientele highlights the cafe’s role as a true melting pot in the heart of Arizona.

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The Menu: Must-Try Soul Food Dishes That Defined a Legacy

The reason for the cafe’s enduring popularity is, ultimately, the food. The menu is a masterclass in authentic Southern soul food, cooked with generations of experience and a strict adherence to quality ingredients. The dishes are hearty, flavorful, and consistently praised for their comforting, home-cooked taste.

The Famous Fried Chicken and Other Staples

The undisputed star of the menu is the Golden Brown Southern Fried Chicken. It is so famous that it is often cited as a dish that can "even beat old Southern standbys." But the depth of the menu offers a wide range of other classic soul food favorites that have kept customers coming back for decades.

Key Entrees and Soul Food Specialties:

• Golden Brown Southern Fried Chicken: The signature dish, known for its perfect crispness and moist interior.
• Oxtails: A beloved, slow-cooked delicacy that is a staple of soul food cuisine.
• Moist Succulent Pork Chops: Available both plain and as Piping Hot Smothered Pork Chops, drenched in a rich, flavorful gravy.
• Pond Raised Catfish: A popular Southern fish entree, often served fried.
• Juicy Chicken Fried Steak: Another Southern comfort food essential.
• Vegetable Plate: A generous offering of Southern-style cooked vegetables, often including collard greens, black-eyed peas, and yams.

The cafe is conveniently located at 808 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, and remains open seven days a week, typically from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM, ensuring that a taste of this living history is available to all.

Gordon Ramsay's Secret Service: The Latest Update

In a major recent update that brought the cafe national attention, Mrs. White's Golden Rule Cafe was featured on the reality television show *Gordon Ramsay's Secret Service*. The show highlighted the challenges facing the beloved 60-year-old establishment, particularly as Mrs. White, at over 100 years old, has stepped away from the daily grind and her son, Larry White, manages the operations.

The appearance on the show confirmed that while the business faced some serious challenges, the spirit and the quality of the food remained intact. Crucially, the cafe continues to operate and serve its regular customers, a testament to the family's dedication and the community's support following the broadcast. The feature served as a powerful reminder of the restaurant's historical significance and its status as a culinary jewel in Phoenix.

Today, Mrs. White's Golden Rule Cafe stands as a powerful monument to the power of good food, a strong family, and the simple, enduring principle of the Golden Rule. It is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic soul food and a connection to Arizona's rich cultural history.