The Penguin Drive-In, Dilworth, Charlotte, happy hour venue
Happy Hour Venue • Charlotte, Dilworth

The Penguin Drive-In - Retro Burger Icon in Dilworth - Charlotte Happy Hour (2026)

Step back in time at The Penguin Drive-In. A Dilworth institution offering classic American burgers, our world-famous fried pickles, and a dose of retro nostalgia.. Specializing in American, Diner. P…

✓ Verified Venue⭐ Featured🏆 Editor's Pick (88/100)★★★★⯪ 4.51118 reviewsmoderateDilworth, Charlotte, NCStarts in 51m
Cheap Drinksthe penguin drive in charlotteretro dinerbest burgers dilworthlocal favoritefried pickles
City guideHappy hourTodayBestRooftopCheapSports bars
📋 View Menu📞 Call Venue🌐 Website

Happy hour schedule

Check the regular schedule and current status before you go.

Starts in 51m
Mon3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Tue3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Wed3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Thu3:00 PM - 6:00 PMToday
Fri3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Sat3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Sun3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Drink and food deals

A quick way to compare the best reasons to stop by.

Drink deals

  • $1 Off Local Taps — $1 Off Local Taps
  • $6 Bloody Marys — $6 Bloody Marys
  • $5 PBR Cans — $5 PBR Cans

Food deals

  • $10 Classic Burgers — $10 Classic Burgers
  • $8 Fried Pickles — $8 Fried Pickles
  • $5 Corn Dogs — $5 Corn Dogs

About this venue

Editor's Take: The Penguin Drive-In is a legendary piece of Charlotte history, bringing the classic diner experience to East Blvd. Known for its eclectic vibe and commitment to simple, great food, it remains a favorite for locals looking for a burger and a beer in a friendly, no-frills setting.

Whether you're here for the signature 'Penguin' burger or just a casual social hour on the patio, expect a warm welcome and a true taste of old Charlotte. Experience the icon that started it all.

Primary Intent: 🍸 Rooftop Bars

Intent Tags: drive-in, burgers, local, dilworth, retro

Cuisine: American, Diner

Best For: Casual Family Dinner, Retro Vibes, Quick Bites, Local Socializing

Atmosphere: Vintage & Friendly

Dress Code: Casual

Noise Level: moderate

Music: Classic Rock, Oldies

Editor Score:
88/100

Venue highlights & amenities

Everything you need to know about this spot's features and what makes it special.

Basic Info

Phone:
Website:
Menu:
Atmosphere:
Vintage & Friendly
Dress Code:
Casual
Noise Level:
Moderate
Capacity:
100

Features & Amenities

🌿 Outdoor Seating
👨‍👩‍👧 Family Friendly
♿ Wheelchair Accessible
💰 Budget Friendly
📅 Happy Hour All Week
🎵 Classic Rock,Oldies
Amenities:
Outdoor Seating,Full Bar,TVs,Takeout,Kid Friendly
Best For:
Casual Family Dinner,Retro Vibes,Quick Bites,Local Socializing
Intent Tags:
drive-in,burgers,local,dilworth,retro
Payment:
Credit Card,Debit Card,Apple Pay
Parking:
On-Site Parking,Street

Additional Details

  • Cuisine: American, Diner
  • Best For: Casual Family Dinner, Retro Vibes, Quick Bites, Local Socializing
  • Intent: drive-in, burgers, local, dilworth
  • Amenities: Outdoor Seating, Full Bar, TVs, Takeout, Kid Friendly
  • Music: Classic Rock, Oldies
  • Payments: Credit Card, Debit Card, Apple Pay
  • Parking: On-Site Parking, Street
  • Dress Code: Casual
  • Noise Level: moderate
  • Capacity: 100
  • Family Friendly: Yes
  • Outdoor Seating: Yes
  • Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
  • Budget Friendly: Yes
  • Happy Hour All Week: Yes

Photo gallery

Tap any photo to expand it.

Menu highlights

  • The Penguin Burger
    14.00 USD
  • World Famous Fried Pickles
    9.00 USD
  • Pimento Cheese Burger
    15.00 USD
  • Homemade Chips
    6.00 USD
  • Chili Cheese Fries
    10.00 USD
  • Milkshakes
    8.00 USD

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Reviews & Ratings

What people are saying about this place

0
☆☆☆☆☆
0 User Reviews
4.50
★★★★⯪
1118 Google Reviews

Recent Reviews

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Visit information

Address: 1531 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28203Phone: (704) 444-0603Website: Visit website
WebsiteOpen in Maps

Location & Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about happy hour deals, reservations, and what to expect at The Penguin Drive-In

What time does happy hour start and end at The Penguin Drive-In?

Happy hour times vary by day - typically weekdays 4-7pm. Check the schedule section above for today's specific happy hour hours and drink specials.

How much are drinks during happy hour at The Penguin Drive-In?

Happy hour drink prices usually range from $5-10 for beers, $6-12 for wine, and $7-15 for cocktails. Exact prices depend on the drink type and day of the week.

Does The Penguin Drive-In have food specials during happy hour?

Yes, most venues offer appetizers and bar bites at discounted prices during happy hour. Popular items include wings, sliders, nachos, and shareable plates.

Is The Penguin Drive-In crowded during happy hour? Should I make reservations?

Happy hour can get busy, especially Thursdays and Fridays. We recommend arriving early or calling ahead for groups of 4+ people. Weekdays are typically less crowded.

What's the dress code for happy hour at The Penguin Drive-In?

Most happy hour venues have casual dress code - smart casual is perfect. Avoid athletic wear, but business casual or casual attire is generally acceptable.

Does The Penguin Drive-In have outdoor seating or patio for happy hour?

Yes! The Penguin Drive-In has outdoor seating available for happy hour. Perfect for enjoying drinks and appetizers in nice weather.

📞 Call🌐 Website📍 Directions

NC Alcohol Laws & Happy Hour Regulations

DUI Laws: North Carolina has a 0.08% BAC limit. License revocation for first offense.

Happy Hour Rules: North Carolina prohibits happy hour drink specials that encourage excessive consumption.

Last Call: Last call varies, typically 2 AM statewide.

You must be 21+ to consume alcoholic beverages in the United States. Please drink responsibly and never drink and drive. Happy hour times may vary — call ahead to confirm.