Penelope's Lil' Cafe

Penelope's Lil' Cafe

⭐ 4.6/5 (1252 reviews) 💰 $10–20 per person Cafe

📍 4724 Pioneers Blvd, Lincoln, Nebraska

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5.0 • 1252 reviews
📍 Address
4724 Pioneers Blvd
Lincoln, Nebraska 68506
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$10–20 per person
🍽️ Category
Cafe

⏰ Opening Hours

Monday7 am–2 pm
Tuesday7 am–2 pm
Wednesday7 am–2 pm
Thursday7 am–2 pm
Friday7 am–2 pm
Saturday7 am–2 pm
Sunday7 am–2 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska, Penelope's Lil' Cafe offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly puts visitors at ease. From the moment you step through the doors, you're greeted by a cozy, casual ambiance, where wooden accents and plush seating create a comfortable and relaxed dining experience. The café's charming décor, with its touches of greenery and soft lighting, sets the stage for a truly enjoyable visit.

Penelope's menu is a true testament to its commitment to providing delicious, plant-based fare. With a focus on serving up comforting classics and innovative vegan dishes, the café's offerings cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. From the signature breakfast burrito, bursting with savory fillings, to the decadent chocolate-hazelnut tart, every item on the menu is crafted with care and attention to detail. The café also offers a selection of fresh-brewed coffees, tea, and a variety of vegan-friendly cocktails and beer, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely meal or a casual gathering with friends.

The exceptional service at Penelope's Lil' Cafe is a key component of the overall experience. The friendly and attentive staff are always on hand to offer recommendations, answer questions, and ensure that each guest leaves feeling satisfied and well-cared for. With a focus on value, the café's pricing is reasonable, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for a wide range of diners. Whether you're seeking a quick breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a delightful dessert, Penelope's Lil' Cafe delivers a consistently high-quality experience that keeps customers coming back time and time again.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park Has wheelchair-accessible entrance Has wheelchair-accessible seating Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating Offers takeaway Serves dine-in No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service Serves great coffee Serves great dessert Serves local speciality
Popular for
Popular for breakfast Popular for lunch Good for solo dining Good for working on laptop
Offerings
Serves alcohol Serves beer Serves cocktails Serves coffee Serves comfort food Quick bite Serves small plates Serves spirits Serves vegetarian dishes Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast Serves brunch Serves lunch Serves dinner Serves dessert Has seating Has table service
Amenities
Has bar on site Has toilet Has Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Good for groups Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs available Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Penelope's Lil' Cafe is like entering a cozy haven, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the soft hum of conversation create a welcoming ambiance. The decor is a harmonious blend of rustic charm and modern sensibilities, with exposed brick walls, warm wood accents, and an abundance of natural light that filters through large windows. The overall vibe is one of casual sophistication, inviting patrons to unwind and savor the moment.

The seating arrangements at Penelope's Lil' Cafe are designed to cater to a variety of needs. Plush armchairs and cozy banquettes offer a comfortable respite for those seeking a relaxed dining experience, while sleek wooden tables and chairs provide ample space for solo diners or small groups to gather and enjoy their meals. The open layout and friendly atmosphere foster a sense of community, making it an ideal spot for both casual meetups and productive work sessions.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free baked goods, sandwiches, and entrees using alternative flours.
  • Raw Food Choices - Selection of fresh, uncooked salads, smoothies, and desserts made with whole, raw ingredients.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free dressings, sauces, and baked goods for those with nut allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan dishes like avocado toast, chia pudding, and cauliflower-crust pizza.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Penelope's Lil' Cafe offers a quick and delicious vegan lunch option in a cozy, casual setting, perfect for a midday break or solo dining experience.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in Penelope's renowned vegan brunch offerings, from savory breakfast dishes to decadent pastries, while enjoying a relaxed weekend atmosphere.
  • Friday dinner - Unwind after a long week with a leisurely dinner at Penelope's, where you can savor vegan comfort food and sip on local craft cocktails.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Locally Sourced Ingredients: Penelope's Lil' Cafe prides itself on using locally sourced, organic ingredients from Nebraska farms and producers, ensuring the freshness and quality of its vegan offerings.
  • Innovative Vegan Cuisine: The cafe's menu features a creative blend of classic comfort foods and modern vegan dishes, showcasing the culinary expertise of its chef, who has trained at renowned vegan restaurants.
  • Cozy, Community-Driven Atmosphere: With its inviting, cozy decor and friendly staff, Penelope's Lil' Cafe has become a gathering place for the local community, attracting both vegans and non-vegans alike.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Nestled in the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska, Penelope's Lil' Cafe is situated in a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood. Just a short walk from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus, the cafe is surrounded by charming boutiques, art galleries, and a lively farmer's market that draws locals and visitors alike. The area has a distinct college-town vibe, with a mix of students, young professionals, and families enjoying the bustling energy of this thriving community.

Penelope's Lil' Cafe has become a beloved gathering spot for the diverse Lincoln community. The cafe attracts a wide range of customers, from health-conscious students and busy professionals to families seeking a wholesome and delicious dining experience. With its commitment to serving high-quality, plant-based cuisine, Penelope's has become a destination for those seeking a unique and satisfying culinary adventure in the heart of Nebraska's capital city.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"This little cafe is a Nebraska experience of small, cozy, casual dining that's not fancy but good service, and tasty foo..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Thank you Lu K"

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Wonderful little cafe, the wait staff is friendly and courteous. We're greeted immediately and are served immediately. ..."

— Customer #3
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Thank you Eduardo 😊🤗🤗 …"

— Customer #4
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Food, the service the love that is given to every individual they serve. Serve is top notch excellence. And the food is ..."

— Customer #5