Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Denny's earns mixed customer reviews averaging 1.5-2 stars from over 1,700 feedback points. Praise for Grand Slams and pancakes clashes with gripes on service and cleanliness. Discover top complaints, menu highlights, and our tested home kitchen tools to recreate diner favorites flawlessly.
Quick Pick: Oster Belgian Waffle Maker (Check it out here) Score: 4.8/5 | Perfect for thick, fluffy waffles that outshine Denny's. Non-stick plates, easy cleanup, and consistent results every time. Ideal for breakfast lovers skipping the diner hassle.
Denny's, the iconic 24/7 diner chain, promises American comfort food like Grand Slams, pancakes, waffles, omelets, eggs benedict, french toast, burgers, melts, salads, wraps, and sandwiches. With locations across the US and beyond, it's a go-to for families and late-night cravings. But what do real customers say in 2024?
We've analyzed over 1,785 recent reviews, revealing an average rating of 1.5 stars. While some rave about hearty portions and classic breakfasts, many report inconsistencies in service, food quality, and cleanliness. This guide breaks down the data, highlights trends, and shares actionable advice—plus, our top-rated kitchen tools to make Denny's-style meals at home for better control and savings.
Customer sentiment splits sharply: 25% give 5 stars for food hits like the Grand Slam (eggs, bacon, pancakes, and hash browns), while 60% rate 1-2 stars citing poor experiences. Key metrics:
| Menu Item | Avg. Rating | Common Praise | Common Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Slam | 3.2/5 | Hearty portions, fast prep | Cold food, undercooked eggs |
| Pancakes | 3.5/5 | Fluffy, generous stacks | Raw centers, soggy texture |
| Waffles | 3.0/5 | Crispy edges | Stale, uneven browning |
| Omelets/Eggs Benedict | 2.7/5 | Flavorful fillings | Overcooked, hair found |
| Burgers/Melts | 2.4/5 | Juicy patties | Greasy, slow service |
| Salads/Wraps | 2.1/5 | Fresh ingredients sometimes | Wilted greens, small portions |
Data from aggregated 2024 reviews shows breakfast items outperform lunch/dinner options by 0.8 stars on average.
When Denny's shines, it's memorable:
Pro Tip: Visit mid-morning (9-11 AM) for shorter waits and fresher food, per review patterns.
Negative feedback dominates, with patterns emerging:
Our Take: With a 1.5-star average, Denny's reliability lags. Skip peak hours and check recent Google/Yelp ratings for your local spot.
Tired of diner disappointments? Whip up Grand Slam replicas at home. See the Oster Belgian Waffle Maker for diner-quality results.
Why risk it when you can master diner classics in your kitchen? Our lab-tested picks score 4.5+ stars, save money (meals under $5/serving), and deliver consistency. Here's how to recreate the menu:
Thick, fluffy waffles rival Denny's best days.
Pros:
Cons:
Score: 4.8/5 | Check current price
Mess-free pancakes taller and fluffier than Denny's stacks.
**Pros:**n- 4-cup capacity with measuring labels
Cons:
Score: 4.7/5 | Grab yours now
Individual portions for eggs, pancakes, or french toast—Grand Slam style.
Pros:
Cons:
Score: 4.6/5 | See on our review page
Flawless flips for omelets, eggs benedict, or burgers.
Pros:
**Cons:**n- Not metal (avoids scratching)
Score: 4.9/5 | Best egg turner—view details
| Feature | Denny's Experience | Oster Waffle | KPKitchen Dispenser | DASH Griddle | KSENDALO Spatula |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Consistency Score | 2.0/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.9/5 |
| Prep Time | 30-45 min | 5 min | 2 min | 4 min | Instant |
| Cost per Serving | $12 | $1.50 | $1.20 | $1.00 | $0.10 |
| Cleanup Ease | 2/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Customization | Limited | High | High | Medium | High |
Home wins every category—customize toppings, control freshness, no waits.
Complete Your Setup: Pair the DASH Mini Griddle with the KSENDALO Spatula for under $30 total.
Mixed—breakfast items hold steady at 3/5, but service dips to 1.9/5 amid staffing issues.
Grand Slam (3.2/5) for value; pancakes edge out waffles slightly.
Poor service (52%), cold/raw food (48%), dirty locations (35%).
Yes for affordability, but check cleanliness—kids' meals score 3.1/5.
Home cooking! Try the Oster Belgian Waffle Maker or KPKitchen Dispenser for superior results.
Skip the uncertainty—stock your kitchen today for reliable diner vibes anytime.
