On one of my regular hikes with friends, I mentioned I was looking for another business to feature in this column. They suggested Spanky’s. I had eaten there before, but not enough to know much about Ashley Parry, the owner since 2013. Lucky me—I learned why Spanky’s Café is so deeply valued.
I enjoy writing about women in business in our Valley, so friends, here’s my interpretation of Spanky’s, its owner and the soon-to-come Dinner at Spanky’s!
Spanky’s is About Community
At the heart of Spanky’s is more than good food—it’s community. In a world that moves too quickly, people crave for a place where they can slow down, feel welcome and connect. Local cafes like Spanky’s are more than eateries; they’re gathering spots where neighbors share a table, a laugh and a story. Community matters because it reminds us, we belong—and that belonging nourishes us as much as the meal in front of us.
For locals in Ben Lomond, Spanky’s is the spot where food is familiar, the atmosphere is easy and conversations flow as naturally as the coffee being poured. It’s where people catch up on school games, home projects, work or weekend plans, those simple threads of daily life that weave neighbors into friends.
Ashley Family Values
Behind it all is a woman, a mom and a business owner who genuinely loves being a part of this rhythm. She doesn’t just run the restaurant—she works the tables, talks with her customers and makes sure everyone feels comfortable and cared for. That personal touch keeps people coming back.
“I work the tables on the weekends, and talking with my customers is absolutely my favorite thing I do in my business,” Ashley shared.
“This business also affords me the lifestyle I want—to be a mom, attend my kids’ games and run a business that is family-oriented. You don’t have to dress up after a hard day’s work. Just come and enjoy a meal in comfort and a relaxed setting.”
Carrying Forward a Legacy
Ashley worked with the original owner, Colleen Brennan, for 10 years.
“She was a mentor to me,” Ashley said.
When Colleen retired, she sold the café to new owners who, three months later, came to Ashley and said, “Please buy the business from us.” With Coleen’s blessing, Ashley did—and she has been running Spanky’s for 23 years while raising her children.
Like any small business, there are challenges, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Ashley continues to “work hard in finding the best suppliers to keep prices as low as possible for my customers.”
She kept the café name because “Spanky” had been Colleen’s nickname from a previous business. Their close relationship and mentorship still guide Ashley today.
“It’s been the customers who brought in memorabilia from the original Spanky’s Gang, and that has kind of stuck too,” she said.
The Spanky’s Vibe
Ashley stands out in today’s fast-paced, in-and-out meal culture. She values interaction with customers and knows the importance of genuine service. With a staff of six “amazing, hard-working, loyal people,” as she calls them, Spanky’s shines in both service and food.
Inside, the café is a relaxed and welcoming space. Step outside into the backyard, you’ll find a friendly BBQ-style vibe.
“We’ve acquired our beer and wine license, and our new dinner menu will be affordable. We’ll serve appetizers, salads, burgers and sandwiches. Dinner service will be 4-8pm. More details to be shared on the website,” she said.
Spanky’s Has Its Star Moment
Another customer and friend told me that Spanky’s had a cameo appearance in The Righteous Gemstones, during Season 3, which aired June 18, 2023. I did some research—and sure enough, it’s true. One of the production assistants familiar with Spanky’s wanted to include a shot. Hey, Spanky fans—we have our very own Valley Star!
Join Spanky’s Gang
Spanky’s Café is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 8am-2pm and located at 9520 Highway 9 in Ben Lomond. Remember, mid-September Spanky’s will be serving dinner from 4-8pm. For more details: spankyscafe.com.
Janet Janssen is a Speaker and Life in Business coach. Current speaker topic: “The Power of Human Magic in the Age of Al.” Also, she is an active member in the community and board member of Leadership Santa Cruz. Visit janetjanssen.com for speaking and training workshops, or email ja***@**********en.com.
