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Penguin Fish & Chips

5952 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035
$
Seafood
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Penguin Fish & Chips 7.8
Pico-Robertson
Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Comfort Food Classics Family Friendly Favorites
An old-school fish-and-chips counter that keeps things classic: crisp batter, tender white fish, and filling combo plates at budget-friendly prices. Not a destination room, but a dependable stop when you want straight comfort seafood without overthinking it.
Must-Try Dishes: Fish & Chips, Fried Shrimp Basket, Seafood Combo Plate
Scores:
Value: 8.7 Service: 7.6 Consistency: 7.8 Food Quality: 7.9 Atmosphere: 6.1 Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Classic Westside fish-and-chips done straight and affordable.
Who should go: Comfort-food seafood fans on a budget.
When to visit: Early evening before the dinner rush.
What to order: Fish & chips, shrimp basket, combo plate.
Insider tip: Ask for extra-crisp batter if you like more crunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Pico and side streets; generally available but can tighten during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are; counter-service setup means no need to dress up.
Noise level: Low to moderate — mostly takeout flow with enough calm for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on fryer volume; rarely a true wait.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; food comes out quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — fries, sides, and a couple of non-fish items.
Vegan options: Very limited — mostly fries and basic sides.
Gluten-free options: Not ideal — batter and fryers are shared, so cross-contamination is unavoidable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not really — it's counter-service and focused on quick, budget-friendly meals rather than atmosphere. Better for a casual meetup or grab-and-go bite.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only, and seating is first-come with fast turnover. You’ll almost always find a spot, especially if you’re flexible with timing.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple fried seafood, quick service, and low pressure make it easy for families. Best for ages 4+ who enjoy classic fish-and-chips or chicken-style baskets.
Best For
Better for: Fast, inexpensive fried seafood done consistently — ideal for quick weeknight comfort without extra cost or wait.
Skip if: You want polished plating, healthier prep, or a dine-in experience with ambiance; consider a sit-down seafood spot instead.