Our story.
At the heart of The Steel Penny is founder Mike Whalen, a lifelong entrepreneur whose journey started long before the restaurant opened its doors. At just 27 years old, Mike founded Sullivan Scrap Metals, building a successful business grounded in hard work, grit, and at its core authenticity and hospitality. Mike was well known for saying he was in the hospitality business but just happened to deal in scrap metals. This mantra and industrial spirit of the scrap metal world became a defining part of Steel Penny’s identity; from the raw architectural elements and real accents to the energetic yet welcoming atmosphere guests experience the moment they walk through the doors.
Mike’s travels throughout Europe shaped a completely different side of the restaurant’s soul. Whether spending time in Italy, Spain, or neighborhood cafés tucked along European streets, he became inspired by a culture centered around connection, conversation, and quality food made with care. He fell in love with the European dining experience — fresh bread on the table, handmade dishes prepared from scratch, good wine poured generously, and meals that encourage people to slow down and enjoy where they are.
That vision found its perfect culinary partner in Chef Dean Cotroneo.
Before joining The Steel Penny, Dean was already well known in the local food scene as the owner of Dino’s in Warminster, where he built a loyal following through his dedication to traditional cooking and authentic flavors. Raised in a large Italian family, Dean learned early that food was more than a meal — it was tradition, family, and love shared around the table.
A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Chef Dean spent decades refining his craft, especially his passion for dough-making, baking, and scratch cooking. His approach blends old-world Italian influences with modern creativity, resulting in food that feels both comforting and elevated. Dean is passionate about great food and unforgettable hospitality, which is exactly what the Steel Penny is remembered for today.
Together, Mike and Dean transformed The Steel Penny from a café into a destination restaurant known for Detroit-style pizza, hand-tossed pizza, handcrafted sandwiches, and thoughtfully prepared dishes rooted in quality ingredients and technique. Every sauce, dough, and recipe reflects their shared belief that great food should be made honestly, patiently, and from scratch.
The atmosphere inside The Steel Penny reflects both of them perfectly — equal parts industrial and European. Rustic spirit, warm lighting, and open gathering spaces create a setting that feels stylish yet approachable. It is a place where guests can enjoy espresso in the morning, gather for a relaxed afternoon lunch, and settle in for an evening of handcrafted cocktails, great wine, and thoughtfully prepared dinner.
More than a restaurant, The Steel Penny is a reflection of the people behind it: hardworking, welcoming, creative, and deeply passionate about bringing people together through food and hospitality.
From its beginnings as a neighborhood café in 2020 to the full dining experience it has become today, The Steel Penny continues to evolve while staying true to its roots — honest ingredients, handcrafted food, meaningful hospitality, and a unique atmosphere that continues to evolve.
Now it's Your turn!
Step into our world, experience the craftsmanship firsthand, and become a part of the Steel Penny family.
We can't wait to meet you!
Find our location and hours below.
