This place is currently closed as the owner recovers from injuries suffered in a robbery. His recovery is reportedly going well and the last I heard the plan is to reopen in September. When they do reopen I recommend you try it. read more

Delicious roast beef! I always get their roast beef sandwich. Service is great and fast! I would recommend trying this mom and pop shop!

Roast beef sounded good - decided to try this recommended spot. First thing I saw when I walked in was their menu and a sign that said "Combo no come with drink Man." We chuckled and ordered Roast Beef au juice and a roast beef with horseradish sauce. Both did come with fries! And Kevan's roast beef was done perfectly for both sandwiches. The decor is that of a Chinese restaurant but it's just their decor. We highly recommend this simple sandwich shop! read more

Small business that has burgers, open faced hot turkey and beef with mashed potatoes and corn on bread. The featured items are the roast beef. They offer several different concoctions of the roast beef to include a French Dip. They look delicious. I stopped for the first time when the line was wrapped around the building at Gyropolis, kitty corner from here. I have seen the place on Yelp with good reviews. I thought that I would try it. When I got in, the older Asian lady was very nice and friendly. I browsed the menu a bit and saw the open-faced beef and turkey. I love those. I had to try, I ordered the turkey and it was very good. I got the full but they offer a half also for a buck or 2 less money. The priceshere are reasonable with weekend specials to entice non workday people. I will be back. read more

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This is a neighborhood staple not to be missed. I'd post a pic but I ate too fast. Hot beef on bread with mashed potatoes. Simple, classic, delicious and easy on the wallet. Go get some! read more

Loved this family run business. Got 2 roast beef sandwiches. Super tasty and tender. Before diving in, check out the accoutrements in the back to add on top. Onions, pickles, horseradish, jalepenos, BBQ sauce. Highly recommend, definitely will revisit. read more

Great homemade roast beef at a very affordable price! Must try the building is in a strip mall but the food is good !

Love this place! You're always greeted with a warm smile from the friendly staff. My favorite is the open faced roast beef sandwich with mashed potatoes smothered in gravy and side of corn. Yum!! read more

Penn Lake Roast Beef - Sandwiches Near Me - Bloomington, Minnesota

I love the food and the owners. Great roast beef commercial, my son at a large order then asked if we could get another to take home. I love when food is prepared properly and served with care and thoughtfulness. It's spartan in terms of ambience but it's flush with great food and service. read more

This place is a gem. Initially, we were apprehensive since it looks like they just changed the name and the menu from a greasy Chinese restaurant, but the roast beef was top notch! Incredibly tender and lean, juicy without sopping the bun. Very well seasoned, didn't need sauce at all, although there were several offerings, including a bottle of Open Pit on the table. Don't judge this book by its cover! read more

Excellent food with even better customer service! Very simple menu which I like. Great deals too. The worker came out to bring us napkins and ketchup and asked if we'd like any water, such good customer service! 5/5 recommend. read more

If the craziness of Wally's makes you a little gun shy, don't hesitate to drive up the next few blocks in the little strip mall before you hit 90th. Super friendly service. I just wanted a plain RB sand. Not as stuffed as the other place, but it's very good. I'm reading the menu the whole time I'm eating, anticipating all the other home cooked meals I'll get another time. I even want to try the fish sand. which is still popular on Fridays. The soups are not made in house, but nice that they have them. Someone ordered stroganoff, and the cook actually gave me a generous sample. It's ground beef with a little too much salt to make it perfect. Funny how 2 exceptional RB restaurants are in close proximity. I like the serenity of this place more. Not sure of the Chinese connection, but if you can cook you don't have to stay in one bag. read more

As I was preparing to check-in at Gyropolis, the listing for Penn Lake Roast Beef grabbed my eye like a ray of sunshine in the January cold. Over 4 stars with 20+ reviews, I quickly checked out some of the reviews. Not only were the reviews for this restaurant solid, but I was deeply intrigued by the comparisons to Wally's - what can be better than a food challenge between two classics? I admit that I walked in to Penn Lake with high expectations - hoping that Penn Lake was going to rival Chap's Pit Beef in Baltimore with their authenticity, aromas, lines, condiments, and taste. Unfortunately, I was underwhelmed from the moment I pulled up. Granted, the fact that it was below 0 outside may keep away the crowds, but I was the only person in the shop at 5:30pm. There was no one at the front counter and it took a couple of throat clears to get someone to come up from the back. Unfortunately, this person did not speak very good English so I was unable to have much of a dialogue on what I should order. I think I interpreted what he said correctly and ordered a roast beef sandwich with American cheese. The bun was very plain - like a hamburger bun that you would buy in the day old section of the supermarket. The American cheese was a horrible choice - the flavors did not meld well at all and it was as cold as the sidewalk outside. The beauty of American cheese is its melty gooeyness, but when it is not melted it just tastes artificial. The roast beef itself had decent flavor and tenderness - certainly better than Arby's, but I recognize that is not saying much - but no spicy bite like has been mentioned in other reviews. The portion size was average, the au jus was watery and flavorless and the BBQ sauce was generic in flavor. Several people at work raved about Penn Lake so I feel an obligation to go back during warmer weather when it might be busier and I also plan to check out Wally's to complete my food wars challenge. However, on my first visit, Penn Lake does not seem worthy of going out of your way to visit. read more

We have been traveling past this gem for 40 years and just found it. A true little hole in the wall that's clean, friendly, tasty, prompt service, Good Food! We experienced the French and was excellent, could of had twice the beef! As we were leaving, a gentleman was enjoying a roast beef dinner combo, he said more food than he expected! Our new quick stop restaurant! Kevan's Penn Lake Roast Beef 8911 Penn Ave S Bloomington MN 55431 952-681-7430 read more

I've lived near this place for years and was always curious - today I was right next door so I finally stopped in. It's a really interesting mix of American and Asian vibes. I tried the roast beef sandwich and it did not disappoint. It was ready in literally minutes, the staff were very nice and friendly. The sandwich was simple and delicious. I can't wait to bring my husband back and try more menu items! read more

Being a new opening in a dead strip mall the former cook for Wally's for 20+ years he was gone out on his own and stuck to what he knows and people in the area are familiar with Roast Beef and slowly branching out with some new surprises. Wally's extras such as au jues, etc are free. I think the portions are the same and when you grab a 2-fer your ahead of the game. Personally I love the Philly. Based on both the Roast beef's and Philly's he is using the same supplier's given that he has been Wally's cook for 20+ years your going to get a pretty good Wally's experience that your used to. Problem with Wally's were they were closed weekends and evenings so the only time was Lunch which posses a bit of a challenge given that I work but, am a Bloomington resident. They have expanded hours well into the evening. Tonight I ordered the Philly (Must Try, I love the spicy horseradish and au-jus (both free extra's). I ate in, the place was empty but, had a CONSTANT stream of take-out's. For some reason I thought it was Friday (Clam Chowder day), I asked if he had clam chowder and he immediately said yes and brought my food to the table. Upon further reflection it's Thursday and I have to go to work tomorrow, tomorrow is clam chowder day. I love this place. I can't wait to see what other items he adds to the menu. They recently discontinued breakfast services. At this time I am unsure of their hours, I grabbed a stack of the take out menu's but, gave them all out before I realized I handed out my last one. I will try and recon and snap some photo's. read more

Another Bloomington gem, Roast Beef choices are a lot better than the older standard referred to as "Wally's Roast Beef". Wally's restaurant personnel has changed as well as ownership, hence the slip in quality and service. Owner and Chef is a long time Bloomington business man. Everything is made fresh to order. Try the Beef egg rolls! They have Weekend special pricing and are open on the weekend vs Wally' being closed. Just try the catering service this past week and the food was a hit with my guests. Homemade BBQ, buns and beef juice was a great choice. My order was sliced as I entered the store, so beef was tender and hot. read more

After having the Wally's experience I heard about Penn Lake and knew that when in the area I had to give them a try. If you are looking for fine dining, head elsewhere. They have white tablecloths, of the vinyl variety. Wally's may have an edge over Penn Lake with their retro space but that is not why you go to Wally's or Penn Lake. It's the roast beef. And I have to say that Penn Lake's roast beef was superior. The flavor was top notch and the meat was fork tender. I got the half plate roast beef dinner, meat on top of white bread, a fairly large scoop of potatoes, plenty of gravy and a bowl of corn on the side. I assume the full plate would be two slices of bread, more beef and two scoops of potatoes. A half plate is enough for normal humans - if training for the Olympics or clearing roads in a blizzard you may need the whole plate. Service was fast and friendly. I know if I was in the mood for roast beef and in the area I would drive past Wally's and hit Penn Lake instead. Nothing wrong with Wally's but I think Penn Lake's food has the edge. read more

The highlight to be honest was the owner GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE he even offered us the Beef egg rolls with the special sauce as a sample and they happened to be my favorite part of everything we had ordered. I went on a Sunday where Penn Lake offers a special 2 for $6 you can choose between roast beef or meatloaf sandwich. Which was a great deal! The sandwiches are pretty much the same as Wally's down the road (where the owner used to work for many years) I liked my roastbeef with au ju on the side the meatloaf had tons of flavor though. We ordered a side of fries as well and cheese fries. Tip the cheese fries are actually the same as the order of fries just add a cup of cheese on the side and you get Cheese fries! LOL Theres plenty of tables in the restaurant as well. I will stop by when I'm in the area for a roastbeef its extremely affordable. They are right across the street in the strip mall across from Gyropolis. read more

Service is so fast and friendly which is nice but the food is outstanding! I haven't tried anything that wasn't amazing. Mmmm, meat!

Its a solid beef sandwich, it reminded me a lot of Mavericks in Roseville. They had their 2 year anniversary so beef sandwiches were on sale 2 for $6. How can you beat that.? Optional toppings at the sideboard included horse radish sauce, jalapeno peppers, and onions. I would have liked to have seen ground horseradish, but jalapenos will do in a pinch. Its in a strip mall next to a sporting gear shop, so ambiance is not its forte. But, if someone asks me "Where's the beef?" I can say "Penn Lake" without a moments hesitation. read more

Weird place. Wally's Roast Beef had it's head chef start his own business and this is it. So, there are two Roast Beef places within a half mile stretch in Bloomington and they both are delicious. Kind of a weird, not clean but not dirty place. By no means do I think it's dirty but it reminds me of being a vacated Walgreens. Not too fancy but a great place to go for a quick BBQ sandwich for lunch. read more

This is a superb "hole-in-the-wall" restaurant for you to try, If you like roast beef, this is the place that you need to go! The owner/chef is the chef from the old Wally's Roast Beef. (Apparently Wally sold the place to new owners who have it in some new digs down the road. This is the original beef from there before the changes). The beef is sliced to order from actual roasts (not like those loaves of beef they slice at places like Arby's). The quality of the meat is exceptional and the flavors are not overdone so that you get to enjoy the quality of the meat. Each time I have gone, the roast beef was cooked perfectly. They offer a French Dip that is done correctly - with the juices from cooking the roast instead of basically a cup of gravy. The french fries on the side seem to be frozen fries, but they always turn out really good (not sure how some places can make them awesome and others mess them up - but Penn Lake seems to have it down). The prices are awesome (they were just offering 2 roast beef sandwiches for $5.95 on Monday and Tuesday). The place isn't fancy at all, it is a hole in the wall. But, that isn't why you are there - you are there for great roast beef. Penn Lake is a DEFINATE reccomendation. read more

Great fresh carved roast beef, friendly atmosphere, clean restaurant. It was our first time here, we tried the wings, very crispy. Obviously don't miss the roast beef. Delicious. Quick and delicious, give it a try, say hi to Kevan, the very friendly owner. read more

Been a Wally's fan for over 20 years. With that said, I was happy to hear the cook from Wally's opened this place! Much better than the new Wally's, both food and location. Plus the newer Wally's owner sure seems like a Geek! Go to Penn Lake Roast Beef and forget about Wally's! read more

My god! People can't possibly be this nice, can they? This (clearly) family run business is impossibly nice! And the food is absurdly good. If I'm hungry, and within a mile or two, I come here. Egg rolls are outstanding, and the beef sandwich is perfect comfort food. Love these folks. American Dream come to life. read more

I had gone here for lunch based on a coworkers suggestion. I was a bit skeptical since I'm not really a fan of processed roast beef like what is served at Arby's but I was pleasantly surprised by this place. What other's said about the dining room is true. It is a bit "divey" and the owner could stand to put a little money into modernizing it but the service is some of the friendliest I have ever encountered and the food is delicious and reasonably priced. I get the roast beef sandwich and cheese fries. Man, do I love crinkle fries in cheese sauce! The roast beef sandwich is good and I like the fact that they have the toppings available in the dining room so you can customize your sandwich the way that you like. read more

Amazing service. The owner, and his lunch time employees are all very nice. The roast beef sandwich is all you need to get. Fries are always fresh. I've had the French dip a bunch of times too, also very good. Perfect spot for a quick lunch. I have recommended to some of the pickiest people I work with and everyone leaves happy. read more

What a hidden gem!! My boyfriend and I come here for take-out at least once a week, and we've never been disappointed. This is simple comfort food at it's finest, and the owner Kevin is just the sweetest. I highly recommend any of the sandwiches and especially the wild rice chicken soup. I've lived in Minnesota all my life and this is the best, homiest wild rice soup I've ever tasted. Foodies take note: this cook genuinely loves feeding people and it shows! If you're getting tired of tiny salads with 20 ingredients, come to Penn Lake Roast Beef to get back to the roots of good food. read more

I found this little place last summer and have been going there ever since. Great food and awesome customer service. Love the French dip! read more

I found them online, looked over the pictures, reviews and called in my order - giving them 30 minutes to have it ready. Once I arrived, they started my order. The picture of the french dip on the site did not resemble what I got. Nor did the fries - not a fan of cheap crinkle fries and would not have ordered them. My bigger issue is the prices are not accurate online. 6.99 for five frozen wings? Nope. Would not have ordered them either - they were fine. My biggest issue is the roast beef was overly salty and everything was poor or just very average quality. Even the bread. 2 meh sandwiches, 1 order of cheap fries, and five wings for $26? Nope. Big pass. read more

This is a hidden gem in Bloomington. Really great roast beef sandwiches and really sweet hard working people. Definitely stop by here.

Very tender, juicy roast beef!!! Great service, selection, and prices! Owner was attentive and proud of the food.

Nicest people work here and they try so hard! Restaurant - clean , friendly and cheap! Food- great! Husband and dad got a pork philly sandwich - long hoagie bun with pork , cheese and veggies! Very good. My mom got roast beef and loved it! I got the turkey plate- very tasty but too much gravy, next time get gravy on the side! Fries- 4/5 Onion rings - 4/5 Price for 4 = $30 Well worth a trip and supporting a local restaurant read more

Best service around! Best place to get roast beef sandwich. All their food is delicious!

Excellent service very friendly staff! Kevan runs a top notch business. After Jeff took over Wally's I was pleased when Kevan started his. Kevan is way nicer than Jeff ever was and I would rather support his business than Jeff's. read more

Hands down the best roast beef Philly steak sandwich we've ever had. Friendly service and our food arrived quickly. Will definitely be back! read more

I've been here a couple of times. My brother used to come here frequently til he "moved away". Awesome, tasty roast beef sammies. Plenty of meat on the soft, fresh rolls too. The roast beef egg rolls have a unique but good flavor. One time we go the roast beef open face sandwich. It was really good too. The potatoes did not taste like they were from a box so that's always a plus and the gravy was very tasty. I used my friend's leftover gravy to dip my fries in. The staff are friendly and the food came out quickly. Plenty of parking in the strip mall parking lot. As a side note I used to come to this mall for Aardvark Records, way back in the day when people bought albums and cds. read more

Very good roast beef. The gravy in the open face sandwich was delicious! My son had the beef stroganoff and ate the whole plate.

WOW! I stopped here a week ago while waiting for my Mom at the dentist. LOVED it! One of the best sammies ever! Horseradish sauce cleared my sinuses and the BBQ sauce had a great sweet/sour taste. The woman who helped me was very friendly and helpful. So, she has an Asian accent, really that is your complaint? whatever! I would go back again....better than any fast food place you can go to. Good job! read more