Penny University

1202 J St, Modesto, CA 95354, United States
$$$ cafe
(71 Reviews)
Price Range $1–10

If you're searching for a vibrant and inviting café that serves up thoughtful culinary delights in the heart of Modesto, look no further than Penny University. Located at 1202 J St, this café is a true haven for food lovers, students, and anyone craving a welcoming space to unwind or get some work done.

Penny University is not just about the abundance of delicious treats; it's a place where you can truly feel at home. With its bright and spacious interior, coupled with an inviting atmosphere, it's a perfect spot for those who want to spend a leisurely afternoon with a good book or catch up with friends over lattes. The café also boasts a cozy reading nook, making it an ideal place for book lovers and those looking to dive into something new while sipping their favorite brew.

The menu is an exciting selection of both hearty and light fare that caters to all tastes. For fans of a solid morning meal, you can't go wrong with the Breakfast Sandwich, featuring freshly cracked eggs, your choice of bacon or sausage, and a slap of chipotle sauce, all nestled beautifully between a buttered southern biscuit or sourdough bread for just $12.00. If you prefer something lighter, the Seasonal Quinoa Salad offers a vibrant mix of quinoa, sweet potatoes, and apple topped with spiced pecans—a wholesome choice at $12.50.

For those looking to share, the Pimento Cheese Plate and Marinated Olives are delightful starters that will definitely elevate your culinary experience. And don't miss out on their tangy White Bean Hummus, which pairs perfectly with fresh cucumber and baguette slices for $11.00.

As you sip on your drink—whether it’s a frothy cappuccino or a seasonal favorite like pumpkin spice latte—you'll be surrounded by the community vibe that Penny University fosters. The staff are noted for their exceptional friendliness, ensuring that each visit feels special. Customer reviews highlight the café's warm ambiance and inviting nature, with patrons often remarking on its spaciousness that allows for both quiet study time and lively conversations.

Just ask Bonnie Ohara, who raves about the “kind staff” and “perfect cappuccinos,” while Molly Giger calls it a “breath of fresh air” in downtown Modesto, further showcasing the charm that Penny University embodies. It's truly a place where delightful food meets an enjoyable environment, making every visit a memorable one.

So whether you’re after a satisfying brunch, a cozy workspace, or a place to enjoy a leisurely afternoon with friends over coffee, Penny University captures it all with style and flair. Stop by to discover why this café is quickly becoming a beloved community staple!

Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Fast service
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Popular for
Breakfast
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Quick bite
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Dessert
Seating
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
University students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
NFC mobile payments
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

07:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Tuesday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Wednesday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Thursday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Friday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Saturday

07:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Sunday

07:00 AM - 03:00 PM

71 Reviews
Gary Grant

05 Sep 2025

I dropped a client off at Penny University to meet with a work associate of hers.Someone had recommended the location. The place is bright and spacious and clean. Looking at other people's orders and seeing the smiles on their faces, you know the food is good.They even have a few tables out on the sidewalk, when it's not quite so hot.

Isamar Vega

25 Aug 2025

Really lovely new spot! Bright open space and love the reading nook with a great selection of books. The staff was super friendly too and it was lovely but still enough seating inside and outside. Several people working on laptops too with a decent amount of plugs. Good to catch up with some, do some remote work, or read or just enjoy coffee. I ordered the hey day drink which is their match. It was SO GOOD. I was upset I didn’t get the large! Also had a cappuccino which was a bit strange. Not sure if too bitter or acidic or not sweet enough? I know staff is still in training. Excited to go back there though!

Lore Franco

06 Aug 2025

This is by far my favorite coffee spot! The food is always fresh and delicious, and the coffee never disappoints. On top of that, the service is truly phenomenal—friendly, fast, and welcoming every time.

Molly Giger

02 Jul 2025

Penny University is such a breath of fresh air to downtown Modesto. The ambiance is so cozy and comfortable, it feels like a place you can stay for hours and hours. I had a pumpkin spice latte, the breakfast sandwich and biscuit with jam. The latte was delicious, not too sweet, huge fall vibes. The sandwich was really tasty with crispy bacon (I hate soggy bacon!) with a spicy mayo that really set it off. And the biscuit and jam was seriously top notch. Everyone I talked to was very friendly, service was quick, it's overall a great spot. I'll be coming here again and again!

Bonnie Ohara

20 Jun 2025

Exceptionally kind staff, perfect cappuccinos and lattes every time, and food is always prompt and on point. Spacious place to study, read, or catch up with a friend. Music on the stereo is always good too. Library space has plenty of books to read to your kid while you hang out. Seasonal menu stays fresh and always has something new to try. Jams and pickles made in house too.

Maureen Chavez

13 Jun 2025

Such a beautiful cafe with delicious food and a wonderful atmosphere! The matcha is sooo yummy and flavorful without being too sweet. I can't get enough of it!

Jaci Tidmarsh

05 Jun 2025

Penny University Coffee is one of my absolute favorite spots in downtown Modesto. The coffee is delicious, the food is amazing, and the atmosphere is always fun and welcoming. I especially love their cozy little library corner with the comfy couch. It is the perfect place to relax or catch up with a friend. Whether I’m grabbing a quick drink or spending a couple of hours chatting, I always leave feeling glad I came. If you haven’t been yet, go. You’ll love it!

Camille Marino

04 Jun 2025

Always wanted to stop by & after a trip to Intrinsic Elements - I finally had the chance :) I went on a weekday & it was quite busy for a weekday afternoon, albeit it was during lunch time. There was no line so I was greeted and helped right away. Super friendly staff! The menu is right at the front counter so there was no display on the wall. There is also a menu on their merch display - I saw this as I was leaving. I was stuck between ordering an Iced Bourbon Caramel Latte & an Iced Brown Sugar Cinnamon Latte so I asked the person helping what they would recommend for a sweet tooth. Their recommendation was the Bourbon Caramel Latte since it was sweeter than the Brown Sugar. They asked if I was okay with whole milk so they do have alternative milk options. My drink was ready in less than 3 mins, super quick! I didn't dine in so I had it in a to-go container. My drink was good, not as sweet as I wanted but I am literally a side of coffee with my milk & sugar type of girl. I would definitely go back & try their lunch, it seems to be a popular spot for it! EDIT: I went in again and ordered the Bourbon Caramel Latte but asked for it to be sweeter this time & it was perfect! So if you're a sweet tooth like me, ask for it be sweeter.

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