What types of cuisine do you serve?

We serve classic American comfort food with a twist.

Do you have a kids' menu?

Yes, we have a kids' menu with options for children 12 and under.

Where are you located?

We are located at 1531 East Blvd.

Do you offer take-out or delivery?

Yes, we offer take-out and delivery services through our partners.

Can I make a reservation for a large group?

Yes, please call us in advance to make arrangements for large groups.

Reviews (704) 444-0603 Call Website Photos About

The Penguin Drive-In

Is this your business?

4.2 (349)

American Restaurants Asian Fusion Restaurants Bars Chicken Wings Restaurants Cocktail Bars Hamburger Restaurants Ramen Restaurants Restaurants Restaurants with Outdoor Seatings Sandwich Shops Sports Bars

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About

The Penguin Drive-In is a vibrant gathering spot in Charlotte, NC, offering a unique blend of American classics and Asian fusion flavors. Our menu features mouth-watering Chicken Wings, juicy Hamburgers, and steaming hot Ramen, ensuring there's something for everyone. Pair your meal with a craft cocktail from our trendy Cocktail Bar, or catch the big game at our lively Sports Bar. Whether you're in the mood for a quick sandwich or a satisfying dinner, we've got you covered. Visit us at 1531 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203, and experience the perfect fusion of flavors and fun!

The Penguin Drive-In Review Summary

The summary was generated by AI, based on reviews.

This casual American eatery, The Penguin Drive-In, serves up classic comfort food with a twist. Known for their burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes, patrons rave about the generous portions and friendly service.

Review Rating Chart

Yelp: 4.5/5

TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

Google Reviews: 4.4/5

Facebook: 4.8/5

Zomato: 4.2/5

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Reviews & Ratings

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4.2

(349 Reviews)

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Jo Covington Nencetti -Google user

a month ago

First time here at this location. Good menu selections, smash burgers are popular. We got a Philly Cheesesteak to go, our next visit we got the burger and Quesadilla. Our servers, Vinny and Jonathan were the best and kept us well hydrated and entertained....Read More

Dine inLunch$10–20Atmosphere: 5

Mike Nencetti -Google user

a month ago

I recommend the Smash Burger with seasoned fries. We sat at the bar. Johnathan and Vinny behind the bar were friendly and helpful. Will definitely be back and try different options.

Dine inLunch$10–20Atmosphere: 5Plenty of parkingFree parking lot

Tina Vo -Google user

3 months ago

This place has the BEST burger in Charlotte I’ve had in years. I’m salivating missing the classic smashburger! We ordered the spinach and artichoke dip and they gave us like 10 chips with a large bowl and then charged us $4 for a damn refill smh....Read More

Dine inDinner$10–20Atmosphere: 5Plenty of parkingFree parking lot

Niameca Rankin -Google user

3 months ago

Food was A+! Made to order. Hot and fresh. The service was very nice. The atmosphere was comfortable.

Dine inLunch$20–30Atmosphere: 5Spinach & Artichoke Dip, French Dip BurgerPlenty of parking

Shannel Woodruff -Google user

a year ago

I loved stopping by for lunch. I enjoyed the fried pickles, that were a big hit at our table. The burger was cooked perfectly and the fries are delicious! Our server was kind and food brought out fresh and quickly. Will definitely return

Dine inLunch$10–20Atmosphere: 5

Issa Smith -Google user

a year ago

When I had went inside it was very nice on the inside. The atmosphere was definitely amazing. I had ordered the starters (which were each 3.99 from 3 pm- 6 pm I think on the weekdays). I had ordered the jumbo chicken wings (dry rub),...Read More

Take outOther$10–20Atmosphere: 5Bang Bang Shrimp

Alonzo Horton -Google user

a year ago

This restaurant was on a list of ones to try one night for dinner and I must say it didn’t disappoint. The vibe, food, atmosphere, and service were all top tier. Our server Yusmari was so incredible with giving food ideas along with breaking down...Read More

Dine inDinner$10–20Atmosphere: 5

Tim Williams -Google user

a year ago

Stopped by the Penguin with the fam and it was awesome. I don’t mess with pickles but I’m told the fried pickles were amazing. Nashville Hot Chicken was good but the burgers and fries were outstanding. I loved the Cowboy burger with fried bacon...Read More

Dine inLunch$10–20Atmosphere: 5Bacon Cheeseburger

Suzyqew -Google user

2 months ago

We loved our first time at the Penguin!!! We ate lunch outside on the patio and the food was so good. Everyone was just really pleasant so our experience was absolutely wonderful and I would definitely go back.

Atmosphere: 5

Aretha Cochran -Google user

4 months ago

Our first time visiting Penguin Drive In… food & service was amazing. We will definitely be back. If you haven’t tried, you need to. You won’t be disappointed!

Dine inDinner$10–20Atmosphere: 5Penguin Smashburger w House Chips, Bang Bang Shrimp, French Dip Burger

J W -Google user

11 months ago

SO delicious! My fiancé and tried the fried green tomatoes, the Philly cheese steak sandwich and the Nashville hot chicken tender sandwich. All items were absolutely incredible. The service from the team from the hostess to our server to the food runners was all amazing....Read More

Dine inDinner$20–30Atmosphere: 5

Lace Wills -Google user

a year ago

This was a fun spot! It’s a little too cold now but the outdoor seating looks very inviting when the warmer weather comes. The place was easy to get to with a parking lot, and the food was very good. It had a very chill...Read More

Atmosphere: 5

gabi baum -Google user

a month ago

This was our first time here and we LOVED IT! The food was so good, the atmosphere is so cool, and our server Emily was so friendly and helpful!!! We will be back. P.S. the truffle fries are insanely good & so is the Lychee...Read More

Dine inDinner$10–20Atmosphere: 5Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders

Darlisha Martin -Google user

3 months ago

A MUST TRY!! The food was so flavorful. When I see truffle fries on the menu, it’s always a YES! Shout out to Jonathan (the bar manager) for walking us through our first time experience! He was attentive and personable. Overall 10/10🔥 will be visiting...Read More

Lunch$10–20Atmosphere: 5Combo deals / set menus

Nicholas Siravo -Google user

a month ago

French dip with Truffle fries was outstanding. We enjoyed everything. Service was great.

Dine inDinner$10–20Atmosphere: 5Famous Fried Pickles, Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders, French Dip Burger

Ernesto Delgado -Google user

a month ago

Emily was a great and friendly waitress. Very good burger “Tommy Boy” the melty cheese took it to another level.

Dine inLunch$10–20Atmosphere: 5HamburgerPlenty of parking

gabrielle a -Google user

a week ago

this place was FANTASTIC. we got the smash burger and sliders.. they were amazing!!! we ordered ahead, and ordered too early so they were barely warm.. and they were still fantastic. i wish this place was close to home, i’d go all the time. 10/10...Read More

Dinner$10–20Atmosphere: 5

Jazmine McCoy -Google user

a month ago

Me and my Bf took a day trip to Charlotte and decided to stop and eat here. The place was very nice and the people were very nice and pleasant. The food was AMAZING! My bf loved their Philly cheesesteak and I had the Smash...Read More

Dine inDinner$10–20Atmosphere: 4

William Smoak -Google user

a month ago

Everything was delicious! The atmosphere is nostalgic and fun. And the drinks unique and yummy! Emily was our server and she was very helpful and attentive!! Will definitely be back soon to watch a game on the patio or bring some friends for dinner! I...Read More

Dine inDinner$20–30Atmosphere: 5Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders, French Dip Burger

Joey Hamrick -Google user

a month ago

We stopped in for lunch and it was really good. Emily took excellent care of us. She was very friendly and had great knowledge of the menu as well. We had a wonderful experience. We both had burgers and the fried pickles....Read More

Dine inAtmosphere: 5

Features

From the business

Identifies as Asian-owned

Service options

Outdoor seating

No-contact delivery

Delivery

Takeout

Dine-in

Highlights

Fast service

Fireplace

Sports

Popular for

Lunch

Dinner

Solo dining

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance

Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Wheelchair accessible restroom

Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings

Alcohol

Beer

Cocktails

Coffee

Comfort food

Happy hour drinks

Happy hour food

Hard liquor

Late-night food

Quick bite

Small plates

Wine

Dining options

Breakfast

Brunch

Lunch

Dinner

Catering

Counter service

Dessert

Seating

Amenities

Restroom

Atmosphere

Casual

Cozy

Trendy

Crowd

Family-friendly

Groups

LGBTQ+ friendly

Tourists

Transgender safespace

Planning

Accepts reservations

Payments

Credit cards

Debit cards

NFC mobile payments

Children

Good for kids

High chairs

Kids' menu

Parking

Free parking lot

Parking

Other

LGBTQ+ friendly

Identifies as Asian-owned

The Penguin Drive-In

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