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ZipPicks Awards
Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Highland Park
Best Burritos in Highland Park
Best American in Highland Park
Master Critic Review
Penny's Burgers
8.0
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Family-owned since 1969, Penny’s Burgers is a corner standby for charbroiled burgers, breakfast burritos, and old-school plates that cross between diner and fast food. It’s the kind of place where portions are generous, prices stay modest, and the menu quietly covers both American and Mexican comfort staples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charbroiled cheeseburger with fries, Breakfast burrito with eggs, bacon, and hash browns, Carne asada fries or plate with rice and beans
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: A 1960s-era neighborhood counter slinging burgers, burritos, and plates all day.
Who should go: Locals craving reliable, affordable diner-style burgers and breakfasts.
When to visit: Mornings for breakfast burritos; evenings are quieter and mellow.
What to order: Cheeseburger combo, breakfast burrito, carne asada fries or plate.
Insider tip: Use the patio for a slower meal; most people grab-and-go from the counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking on adjacent residential blocks; usually easy before 6pm, slightly tighter during peak lunch hours.
Dress code: Come as you are—casual, everyday wear is perfectly normal.
Noise level: Low to moderate; easy to hold a conversation both inside and on the patio.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes, often no wait at all.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even during the rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few solid picks like grilled cheese, veggie burrito, and customizable sides.
Vegan options: Very limited—can request modifications, but no dedicated vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: No formal gluten-free program; some plates and salads work if you avoid the bun/tortillas, but cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for a super casual, no-frills vibe. It’s more about comfort food than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Penny’s doesn’t take reservations. Seating is first-come, first-served, and usually available quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. Ample outdoor seating, quick service, and a menu full of kid-approved classics make it great for families.
Best For
Better for: Generous portions, affordable pricing, and old-school diner comfort that’s hard to find in Highland Park.
Skip if: You’re seeking gourmet burgers, craft beer lists, or a trendy ambiance—this is strictly classic and utilitarian.
Hours
Monday8am - 8pm
Tuesday8am - 8pm
Wednesday8am - 8pm
Thursday8am - 8pm
Friday8am - 9pm
Saturday8am - 9pm
Sunday8am - 8pm