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Penny's Noodle ShopC+Worth Trying
3400 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
· Noodle shop, Thai restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (466 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Casual Thai-forward noodle shop with quick, friendly service and standout lad nar, pad Thai, and soups; some diners report bland flavors, delivery issues, and uneven consistency.
Why it gets a C+ for overall quality
Penny's Noodle Shop delivers reliable casual Thai dining with strong signature dishes like lad nar and fast, friendly service that keep regulars returning. However, flavor inconsistency across visits—ranging from excellent to bland broths—prevents a higher grade, and the simple diner setting lacks distinctive appeal. It's a solid neighborhood spot worth visiting for quick, satisfying noodles, especially if you're in Wrigleyville.
Restaurant Summary
Under the rumble of the Red Line, Penny's feels cozy and bustling, a quick-stop noodle shop that locals and ballpark-goers slip into for hot bowls and stir-fries. Servers are often friendly and fast, and a regular summed it up as "comforting noodles that hit right after a long day." Expect limited seating and the occasional train roar adding to the charm. The cooking leans classic Thai with a pan-Asian tilt—pad Thai, lad nar, hot pepper noodles, fried rice, plus ramen and gyoza—more elevated traditional than edgy fusion. Fans rave about the crisp-then-saucy lad nar and steady soups; detractors find some broths bland or sauce-heavy. If you like dialing spice and piling on herbs, you will likely find a satisfying bowl here without fancy pretenses. Families fare well thanks to familiar noodles, fried rice, dumplings, and mild sauces. Kids can share a pad se eu or Chinese fried rice, and Thai iced tea is a sweet win. There is no kids menu, but the menu breadth keeps picky eaters happy; note spice can vary, so request mild by default if needed.
At a Glance
- Signature lad nar with crisp noodles and silky gravy wins consistent praise
- Fast, friendly service and quick kitchen turnaround
- Flavor consistency varies; some soups and stir-fries can taste flat
- Delivery delays and missed items reported in a minority of orders
- Near Wrigley; crowds and noise spike around games
What Sets It Apart
- lad_nar_signature_gravy
- under_the_train_location
- fast_kitchen_turnaround
What People Love
- Comforting, hot bowls on cold days
- Crispy-to-soft lad nar texture
- Friendly, swift service
- Predictable prices for hearty portions
Points of Concern
- Occasional bland broths or sauce-forward dishes; ask for condiments or extra spice
- Delivery reliability issues including long waits or missing items
- Limited seating; tight quarters at peak times
- Review patterns show mixed flavor experiences; expectations should be set for casual, adapted Thai
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$24-34 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Choose lad nar dine-in for best crisp texture
- Vegetarians have strong options: Vegetable Noodle Soup, Sliced Tofu bowls, edamame, crispy rolls
Perfect For
- Pre-game noodles before Wrigley
- Fast casual weeknight dinner
- Solo slurp-and-go lunch
- Mixed-diet groups needing veg and gluten-free options
Location Insights
Area: Bustling Wrigleyville corridor near the ballpark; casual, game-day foot traffic with neighborhood regulars.
Safety: Generally safe, busy on game days and evenings; well-lit with steady pedestrian flow.
Nearby: Steps from Wrigley Field and Red Line; bars, cafes, and shops nearby; under the train line.
Lakeview EastLakeview East is characterized by a bustling dining scene with a variety of casual eateries, trendy bars, and ethnic restaurants. The social atmosphere is energetic and inclusive, appealing to both locals and visitors seeking diverse culinary experiences in a walkable, lively environment.
BoystownBoystown is a well-known sub-area within Lakeview East, famous for its vibrant LGBTQ+ culture, colorful nightlife, and welcoming dining spots. It combines a friendly neighborhood feel with a dynamic social scene, making it a popular destination for both dining and entertainment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–21:00
Tuesday11:00–21:00
Wednesday11:00–21:00
Thursday11:00–21:00
Friday11:00–21:00
Saturday11:00–21:00
Sunday11:00–21:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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