Penny Red's — Restaurant in Detroit

I want to start this off by saying that this is the second best fried chicken that I have ever put in my mouth, and the first comes from the state Louisiana, so really up North wise, I'm willing to bet this is some of the best you will find.

If you are unfamiliar with Penny Red's, it's certainly time to familiarize yourself with this unassumingly and almost hidden delicious add-on to The Brakeman. This is a fried chicken joint, but not just any fried chicken joint, and I am willing to bet that it's better than almost any chicken you've had previous to stepping foot in this place (unless you've been to Louisiana). This place is also tiny, and I am not kidding. The restaurant itself consists of a very small area where you place your order, pick up your order, and can wait in line to order if it's super busy.

Luckily for everyone, it's connected to a place called The Brakeman, which is not a tiny place and offers plenty of places both indoors and out to sit while lubing up your lips (it's not good chicken unless them lips start to glisten) with ultra moist chicken, super delectable sweetly drenched biscuits and crazy looking fries that taste as delicious as they look cool—all to be washed down with a selection of water, pop (or soda if you're not from round here), and if you're doing some adulting there is a plethora of draft beer, and fancy liquor drinks for you to dabble in.

The menu here, isn't huge which allows them to focus on doing what they do best, which is slinging delicious fried chicken, and that they do. Beyond that, the staff here is incredibly friendly, professional, and prepare orders in a timely manner (really quick actually). When we received our food, it was hot, fresh, and begging to be devoured, and that we did. You will find that this place offers many items that you're familiar with because of ordering from other chicken joints, and some that you are not—but I'll let you figure out which is which. Also, if you choose to sit outside near the alley, don't be alarmed by the amount of people passing by that stop to ask where on earth the chicken that you're eating came from—it happened to my girlfriend and I at least three or four times while we were eating.

You will also find that this particular chicken joint won't break the bank like some other places (their chicken is absolutely worth more than they charge). I am willing to bet that you've paid a lot more at some point in your life for an inferior piece of chicken. You can expect to pay a comparable price that of which the other guys are charging—the only issue is that those guys (and gals) don't do chicken like these guys (and gals) do chicken, just show up here and they'll prove it to you.

When all is said and done, the place is clean (yes even the bathrooms), the people are friendly, the environment fun and inviting, and the food, better than the chicken and biscuits you ate last week guaranteed (unless you ate here last week, then it's a...

As of 8/21/22 this is a new review. So I've been coming to Penny Red's for a long time, at least almost as long as they've been open. I was hooked love at first sight and always treat it like a big yummy thing when it's time to get food from there again. They are a special gem in the city and I mean that what a blessing their food is. It signifies good times and good eating. Anyway I had to turn around and give them three stars a couple months ago which broke my heart to do but the food I ordered kept coming to me sub par. After the second time of receiving underwhelming food I left the review and immediately Ryan the general manager left me his email in the reply to my review. Needless to say he went above and beyond to make it right and I can't tell you how much I appreciate his kindness and hospitality. The food was so good last night and this morning that I can tell, your team is a true reflection of its leadership. I appreciate the effort to listen to your customers and make right your mistakes. Moral of the story is, this is not a place that sweeps its mistakes under the rug. If you have any issues say something they care. I wish PReds the best!

P.S. The biscuits will make you slap your mama. The coleslaw is the best I ever had. The leftovers (if you have any) are even better. The chicken sandwhich is the best in the world. What is that cream on the bun? The honey hot sauce stuf omg drool. I even set aside my lettuce and pickle during the reheat to keep them cold, that's how serious I am about this sandwhich. The corn is to live for. The fried chicken bucket is a must have. The fries are so good that you can even reheat them.

The best damn fried chicken sandwich ever. From the sauce, to the bun and the pickle.Ooh wee and don't forget the actual chicken on the sandwich. I'm telling everyone I know about this place. The biscuits are the best damn biscuits I've had in my life. Whoever thought to dip them in honey butter for us must be an angel here on earth. Have a beer during your...

Nestled in Detroit's bustling streets, Penny's Red offers a unique dining experience that begins at a humble ordering window and continues at the cozy bar next door. This charming setup promises a casual yet inviting atmosphere, perfect for indulging in some of the city's best chicken.

The star of the show, the bucket chicken, did not disappoint. Each piece was cooked to perfection, offering juicy, flavorful bites that kept us reaching for more. Complementing this was the honey biscuits, a delightful blend of sweet and savory that melted in our mouth, setting a high standard for comfort food.

An unexpected hero was the tiny slaw. Its spicy kick was a refreshing contrast to the meal's richer elements, proving that sometimes, the smallest dishes pack the biggest punch. While the Brussels sprouts missed the mark on crispiness, their flavor was undeniable. As a Brussels sprouts enthusiast, I found myself enjoying them regardless, attributing their appeal to the well-balanced seasoning that elevated the dish.

Dessert brought a show-stopping moment with a banana pudding cake creation that was nothing short of divine. It was the kind of dessert that tempts you to abandon all restraint, with a perfect balance of banana, pudding, and cake that felt both innovative and comforting. Had I not been mindful of my waistline, I might have succumbed to the temptation of ordering an abundance to savor every last bite.

In conclusion, Penny's Red in Detroit offers a delightful mix of classic and inventive dishes, from their impeccable chicken to an unforgettable dessert. While there's minor room for improvement in the crispiness of their Brussels sprouts, the overall experience is a testament to the quality and care put into each dish. Penny's Red is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy heartwarming food in a laid-back setting, promising a meal that's as memorable as it...