Lucky Penny, located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, features innovative artisanal pizzas from a wood-burning oven, with locally sourced garden fresh salads, sweet treats, beer, wine and the ever-popular Frosé. The exterior of our building is tiled with more than 150,000 real copper pennies that shimmer in the warm Central Coast sunshine. Join us on our picnic patio or take it away!
Thomas is a proud 805 native, and also where he began his journey in hospitality through the culinary arts program at Oxnard College. He honed his skills by bringing sophisticated and artisanal menus to large, upscale senior living environments as Food Service Director and Executive Chef. Overseeing teams as large as 60, he is meticulous, creative, and an inspired leader. When not managing the kitchen, Thomas is a dedicated volunteer and community supporter. Currently, you will find him giving his free time assisting with programs at the United Boys & Girls Club of Santa Barbara.
Catie hails from the Bay Area and began her career in hospitality as she entered college. Moving to Santa Barbara to continue college, Catie spent two years at Lucky Penny and then moved on to the original Tyger Tyger as opening Assistant Manager. During the Covid years, Catie ran a successful breakfast pop-up and also spent time in the hotel space until returning to Acme at Loquita as floor manager. Moving full circle, Catie is now back to Lucky Penny as its Manager and looks forward to continuing the successes of this Funk Zone original.