Our steak and eggs were absolute perfection. Corn-fed Nebraska beef was cooked to a perfect medium rare and was so flavorful it didn't need more than salt n pepper for flavoring... the beef did all the talking. Rounded off with farm fresh eggs and handmade hashbrowns topped off with excellent customer service.
Overview
When you're craving a cozy, welcoming spot with a fantastic selection of comfort food, look no further than Penelope's Lil' Cafe. Located at 4724 Pioneers Blvd in Lincoln, NE, this charming diner has quickly become a local favorite for both regulars and first-time visitors alike. Whether you're stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or a relaxing dinner, this place has something to satisfy every taste bud.
The moment you step inside Penelope's, you're greeted with a warm, friendly atmosphere that feels like home. The interior features a classic diner vibe with a touch of modern comfort. It's a place where you can kick back, enjoy a meal with friends or family, and take your time without feeling rushed. The staff here is known for their friendly service and attention to detail, which makes the dining experience all the more enjoyable.
One of the standout features of Penelope's is its diverse and mouth-watering menu. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast or a light, refreshing lunch, this cafe has something for everyone. The pancakes, fluffy and golden, are a must-try, especially when paired with their house-made syrup. If you're looking for something savory, the breakfast burritos are packed with flavor and stuffed to the brim with eggs, cheese, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or veggies.
For lunch, Penelope’s does not disappoint. Their sandwiches are a real hit, with the classic grilled cheese being a fan favorite. But don’t overlook the chef’s specials, which rotate regularly. I’ve had the opportunity to try their turkey club sandwich, and it’s been consistently delicious - toasted to perfection with generous layers of turkey, bacon, lettuce, and tomato. If you're a soup lover, their homemade chili is a treat that pairs perfectly with any sandwich.
What truly sets Penelope's apart is the consistency in quality. Every time I’ve visited, the food has been freshly prepared, with ingredients that taste as though they were picked right from the farm. There's a certain authenticity to the flavors, which is often what you crave from a neighborhood diner. This commitment to fresh, local ingredients is something you can truly taste in every bite.
And if you're in the mood for a sweet treat, you’re in luck! Their selection of homemade pies and desserts is a perfect way to end your meal. The pie selection changes seasonally, but the cherry pie is an absolute classic and always a crowd-pleaser. Paired with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, it’s the kind of dessert that brings you back for more.
Another reason Penelope's has earned such a loyal following is its commitment to the community. It's not just about the food here - it’s about the experience. The café often hosts local events and supports nearby businesses, making it a hub for the Lincoln community. The environment feels personal, and you can tell the team genuinely cares about creating a space where everyone feels like family.
With its consistent quality, flavorful food, and warm atmosphere, Penelope’s Lil' Cafe has become an iconic part of the local dining scene in Lincoln. Whether you're popping in for a quick bite or spending the afternoon enjoying a leisurely meal, you’ll find comfort in knowing that every visit promises great food and even better company. Next time you're in the area, don’t miss the chance to experience all that Penelope’s has to offer - you won’t be disappointed.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Solo dining ✓ Good for working on laptopAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ CosyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 1298 reviews
The service was great, our waitress was very attentative and it was busy. The food was really good, the pancake for the kids was massive and my eggs (over easy) were cooked perfectly. The chicken fried steak was definitely a frozen chicken fried steak and Im admittedly a CFS snob. The sausage gravy was said to be homemade and it was good, could use more seasoning for me but I prefer heavily seasoned more than most. Would return just probably wouldn't get CFS, their omelets looked amazing so will try that next time. The inside looked great with a nice decor; howeve, there was a lot of dust on the ceiling on some of their decorations they have hanging above everyone. I would definitely recommend this place though and will be back.
Went w a friend for lunch on a Friday. Steady business through 1pm. I had the fried bologna sandwich and soup. Friend had the BLT. I loved the generous 1/3" portion of bologna served with lettuce, pickle, tomato and onion garnish. The chicken tortilla soup was tasty and loaded with chicken, but a tab bit too salty. We had a great waitress. She was one of the few who knew just how long to give us, came back at appropriate times, and made suggestions and answered questions appropriately. Love that this place serves breakfast and lunch until early afternoon. Nice addition to dining is their liquor license.
Wonderful little cafe, the wait staff is friendly and courteous. We're greeted immediately and are served immediately. My coffee cup never goes empty, though if you're looking to relax I recommend the cafés signature mimosa! Stack on affordable prices and a friendly atmosphere you'll start your morning off here!
This little cafe is a Nebraska experience of small, cozy, casual dining that's not fancy but good service, and tasty food. I had a black bean burger with American cheese and cottage cheese for the side. It was perfect for my medium to small appetite. They do have a couple of vegetarian options too. The waitstaff told me my burger came with American cheese but when I recieved it, no cheese. So i returned and asked for cheese on top. No biggie. Nice folks.
Food, the service the love that is given to every individual they serve. Serve is top notch excellence. And the food is different than any other place. Everything is not made like regular places.
We really enjoyed our breakfast! Such a delightful staff that greeted and welcomed us as if we were family or their best friends. Service is amazing. Food is tasty and hot. Coffee was fluid.
I like to start with the best part of the experience! Service wins here! Service 5* The cafe was super busy, the servers were working their tails off trying to get food out and make sure customers were taken care of. Our server was very friendly and checked in a few times throughout the meal. Atmosphere 4* On a Sunday morning it was super busy, which is always a good sign! Restaurant was clean, a few places inside for parties to wait on a table. I like that you just sign in yourself. I personally don’t like the small tables right next to others. I enjoy a little space between me and other diners. It was a colder morning, think in the 30’s. With all the people in and out I never could get comfortable, even leaving my jacket on the whole meal. Food: 4* Eggs, hash browns, and toast were great! Over easy eggs were cooked well, hash browns were crispy. I was really excited for the funnel cake French toast, however it had an over oily taste to it. Not sure if it was older oil, or just wasn’t drained after pulling. Husband said his chicken fried steak was similar to other restaurants. I enjoyed the crispy shell, but the gravy was not my favorite due to the consistency. I would try this restaurant again, we were talking with a family in the waiting area (before eating) and they go here every Sunday. Heard another server say “see ya next Sunday” to another customer as they were leaving. They clearly have great service here and connection with customers.