Lucky Penny expertly blends a laid-back pizza joint and coffeehouse, serving creative wood-oven pies and fresh pastries. Guests enjoy casual vibes with outdoor seating and a bark-friendly patio in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone.
What to Expect:
🔥 Wood-fired signature pizzas
🍹 Beer, wine, & cocktails
🌿 Spacious, pet-friendly outdoor patio
Important Information:
Identifies as women-owned
Delivery, takeout, and dine-in available
Reservations not accepted; walk-ins only
Plan for moderate wait times during peak hours; outdoor seating is a highlight but shade is limited.
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🌿 Patio Perch: Outdoor seating is the best spot to enjoy the pizza with plenty of plants creating a cozy vibe.
🔥 Only One Pizza Size: The wood-fired pizzas come in a single size, so perfect for sharing.
🚗 Parking Tips: Parking can be tricky; nearby public garages offer free or paid options within a short walk.
🐾 Pet Friendly: Dogs are welcome in the outdoor patio area, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Lucky Penny draws praise for fresh, flavorful wood-fired pizzas and a cozy, plant-filled outdoor seating area. The Margherita and unique pies are crowd favorites. Guests value friendly service and a lively atmosphere, though some report challenges with parking and occasional issues such as cross-contamination of gluten-free items and variability in drink offerings.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
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The Selection
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Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Margherita Pizza, The Butcher Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza, Wild Arugula Salad, Mexican Street Corn, Meatballs, Coffee, Cocktails, Beer, Vegan Options, Gluten-Free Pizza, Pastries
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating. The establishment is mindful of accessibility throughout its premises.
