Penn Lake True Value Hardware

I’m a child of the 80’s… I fondly remember when I used to trek along with my pops to our neighborhood hardware store back in Racine WI. A place where people didn’t have 100 aisles to navigate… A place where the service was outstanding in every direction. Penn Lake True Value is just the memory I’ve longed to find here in the Twin Cities. Seriously, these people care about you. I’m not knocking on Home Depot but I TRULY love coming here instead. There is coffee and cookies usually. Friendly service and smiles. This is not a fast paced big cement block of hardware. This is a wonderful, unique family hardware store in which customers are priority number 1. Thank you Penn Lake for restoring faith in customer service.

I love coming here, even though it is usually just to get key duplicates made. Everyone there is always so friendly! They are always willing to make small chat and always greet you at the door.
I have no complaints whatsoever after 5+ trips here.

Wonderful old-​school customer service is what makes this place special. They’ve been my go-​to spot for 15+ years whenever I need something for my house.
While big box stores can offer wider selection, and may be cheaper on some items (but not as often as you’d expect), I’ve learned I can depend on this place for:
— Having 90+% of what I need for my house. Despite (or because of) their size, I’m consistently surprised at how many different things they manage to have in stock.
— Getting what I need quickly. I can usually buy something at Penn Lake True Value faster than it would take me to walk from my car at Home Depot or Menard’s.
— Friendly help and advice when I need it. They are especially great if I don’t know what I need or how to do something. And I never end up wandering aimlessly down huge aisles.
— Repairs. In addition to blade sharpening, over the years I’ve had these folks fix windows, storm windows, screens, snow throwers, and a lawn mower. Everything has always been done right the first time, and prices are always great.
If you like to shop locally and get friendly service, this place is great. And in 2013 they greatly expanded their store (and selection) to about 4 – 5 times its previous size, taking over the entire building once Wally’s Roast Beef and Instant Replay Sports moved.

This is a GREAT place. The owners are very nice – you won’t meet nicer people. Service makes this place. Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. If they don’t have something in stock, they will get it for you.

Snow blower pooped out, and I called around to get ideas for prices… generally got $ 80 – 100 for estimates from local shops.
I stopped in at Waly’s Roast Beef for lunch, saw this place, and asked them. He said $ 20 or $ 30 bucks, so I left it there.
After 2 days, got the call that it was ready. $ 23 for the total cost, and it was done correctly, quickly, with a smile. Totally trust these guys. Good job, fair price, and walking the store looks like they have a bit of everything on hand.