Penguin Cafe — Restaurant in Laguna Beach

Always a great time with Sabrina at the Penguin. I stumbled on this great old school diner when I first moved to Laguna almost a decade ago. You can never go wrong with the French Toast, and who doesn’t love pancakes (especially blueberry pancakes). Omelettes are always my go to item (be it ham and cheese blend or the chili cheese), always get the tortillas and make my own little breakfast tacos (the BEST salsa).

You’ve got booths and tables, outdoor seating, and my favorite spot, the counter. There’s a sign-in sheet at the door for when they are busier, but it’s not a long wait, friendly and efficient service. Large parties can be accommodated.

It’s what small town dining is all about. A treasure in Laguna, a glimpse of the laid back, small town life most residents enjoy. There’s street parking in front and on side streets, and a small parking lot in back. If you’re looking for a little more space away from people while your eating, just place your order, grab a cup of coffee, and walk down to the sand to enjoy a calming oceanview...a little vitamin sea.

Don’t let peeps fool you...if you choose to eat healthy there are plenty of great options, and always have great specials. If you don’t see what you’re looking...

My boyfriend and I had been going here since the first week we started dating, 5 years ago. He had been going there since his childhood. The food is simple, but consistent and good. Great location. On our second to last visit, the owner’s husband said a terribly distasteful, racist remark along the lines of “Make like Rosa Parks and head to the back [of the restaurant].” Although it wasn’t directed towards me (I am a POC), it was absolutely uncalled for and several customers took offense. The worst part was the lack of accountability from the guy… his wife did verbally apologize on his behalf eye roll We even went back to see if they would attempt to reprimand the situation, as we had gone there almost every week for years… they didn’t even attempt to rise to the occasion. Instead of attempting to cancel your restaurant, I’m simply letting people know how classless and disrespectful we find the owners after that event. Have not been back and will not be back. Check out Cafe Heidelberg down the street for great waffles and...

Came here for the first time January 02, 17, which New Year's Day (observed ). Pointing that out because I'm willing to give them the benefit of the doubt about the New Year crowd. That said, the service was terrible. We were a party of 2, yet the party of 4 who arrived after us got their food order in before us. I tried making eye contact with our waitress several times and it seemed she looked right through me. She finally made her way to our table and took our order. We ordered coffee first, then our omelettes. We got a single cup of coffee. Not once in the hour we were there did someone offer to refill our cups. The food was tasty but not over the top delicious. Our waitress brought our bill toward the end and we had to wait another 20 minutes for her to pick up my card and ring us up. I had to flag her down in order for that to happen. Like I said, everyone has a bad day so I'mwilling to give them somewhat of a benefit of the doubt. But from a customer service stand point, they failed this...