The burglaries all happened after business hours, overnight Monday into Tuesday.
Nouzha Cooper says she came in Tuesday morning to open up the Green Olives Cafe on Passyunk Avenue.
However one little mistake was a clue to Cooper that something was a little off so she called the owner.
"I called him and I said, 'Someone tried to break in," said Cooper.
The burglar never made it inside but police say he continued down Passyunk Avenue and hit three more businesses.
Le Virtu, the Adobe Cafe and Fuel restaurant. The burglaries all happened after hours.
Surveillance images show the suspect near the businesses at the times in question.
Police believe the same man traveled a few blocks over to South Broad Street and broke into the Johnny Chang's.
Once inside the burglar went straight for the cash registers.
"It's scary because if someone wants money I will give him money because the only thing important for me is my life," said Cooper.
In all he made off with several hundred dollars.
Now South Philadelphia business owners hope police get the guy off the streets soon
"I hope they catch the person who is doing this and that everything will be fine and be peaceful and safe for everyone," said Cooper.
The suspect is described as a black male 35-40 years old with a medium build and a full beard. He was seen on surveillance video wearing jeans, a dark hooded sweatshirts, as well as possibly gloves and a tool to pry open windows and doors.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Philadelphia Police at 215-686-TIPS (8477), text a tip to PPD TIP (773847) or through PhillyPolice.com.
