Penguin Cafe

We Are Temporarily Closed.

Laguna Beach’s Original Diner | Family Owned Since 1942

Our Story

Welcome To Penguin Cafe

As Laguna Beach’s oldest operating family business, we are proud of our connection to our vibrant beach side community.

Penguin Cafe opened in the late 1940’s as a malt shop (we still serve them). In the late 1960’s the current family took it over and has run it ever since, expanding offerings to include home-style breakfast and brunch favorites, vegan and vegetarian options, along with house made pies, cakes and more available by special order

Most everything on the menu is made fresh and from scratch- we can’t wait to welcome you to discover your new favorites soon!

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Breakfast or Lunch- We’ve Got What You’re Craving!

Our menu features house made old school favorites along with fresh, modern takes on classics. We make our shakes and malts from hand scooped ice cream, real malt, and fresh ingredients.

With advance notice, we welcome custom orders for our signature tamales, pies, and cakes available exclusively by special order for your next event or gathering!

Full Menu

Testimonials

What People are Saying

“A Great Find”

“Food was good, service friendly, coffee good. Would definitely return! Loved the avacado stack toast.”

Rebecca B., Yelp

“Awesome Breakfast Spot”

“My husband and I both loved our meals and I was so happy that they have vegan options too. Wonderful customer service as well, thank you!”

April F., Google

“Very Good Food”

“Service was great. I got the bacon, eggs, pancakes, and a coffee. Loved it. My wife ordered the Carne Asada and loved it. I will definitely come back again. Really want to try their other menu items.”

Eric M., Google

“We love the nostalgia“

“We visit the Penguin Cafe each time we visit Laguna and it’s like coming home. Very comforting. Good food and service with an old school, small town, diner feel. Traditional menu for brunch but they add new menu choices, like Vegan friendly items to stay hip with the times.”

Stacy P., Facebook