The heart behind Little Penny

Hi, I’m Jee.

I was born and raised in Thailand, where food has always been a big part of family, friends, and everyday life. I came to the U.S. to pursue my master’s degree and eventually built a career in the digital world. After many years of working, I recently retired—and found myself with more time to do something I’ve always loved: cooking.

I’m a wife, a mom to twin boys, and someone who truly believes that a good home-cooked meal can bring people together. Our home has always been a place where friends and family gather around the table, share a meal, talk, laugh, and stay a little longer than planned. I love creating that kind of feeling through food.

Little Penny is my way of sharing the Thai food I grew up with—fresh, comforting, and made with the same care I would put into a meal for my own family.

And this is just the beginning. In spring 2027, I’ll be heading to The Culinary Institute of America to continue learning, exploring, and growing my passion for cooking. I’m excited to see where that journey takes Little Penny. In the future, I hope to offer in-home catering and special meals, bringing the Little Penny experience right to your table.

Jee and Penny enjoying a walk in the woods

So, welcome to Little Penny.

A little Thai comfort, made with love and meant for your whole table.

Explore our menu
Monthly notes from Jee

Little Penny Updates

News from the kitchen, what’s cooking this month, and a few photos along the way.

A Little Update from Little Penny

It’s been a little over a month since Little Penny began, and I’m so grateful for everyone who has supported this little adventure so far. Every order, kind word, and bit of encouragement means a lot to me.

As Little Penny continues to grow, I’m excited to introduce Little Penny’s Monthly Table — a monthly special featuring dishes I love and want to share with you. Each month, I’ll bring something a little different to the table, while keeping the same home-cooked spirit that inspired Little Penny from the beginning. I hope it gives you another reason to come back, try something new, and share a good meal with the people you love.

I’ve also started volunteering with FRESHFARM at the farmers markets in Arlington. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with local farmers and the community, and to learn more about the fresh ingredients grown right here in our area.

A bucket of fresh Thai hot peppers on the stem at the Arlington farmers market A pile of red, orange and yellow sweet bell peppers at the market Boxes of eggplant, sweet peppers and lunch box peppers next to pumpkins at the market Fresh bunches of cilantro and mint, with peppers behind, at the market Cherry tomatoes, fairy tale eggplant, peppers and sweet potatoes at the market stand Fairy tale eggplant, shishito peppers and sweet banana peppers at the market

One of my hopes is to bring more locally sourced, seasonal produce into Little Penny’s kitchen whenever possible. I love the idea of letting what’s in season inspire what goes on the table.

Little Penny is still a small adventure, and I’m learning and growing along the way. Thank you for being part of it. I look forward to sharing more dishes, more stories, and hopefully a little more of our local harvest with you.

And on a personal note, I can’t wait to have both of my boys home for Thanksgiving! They’ll get to see Little Penny in action, and I’m excited to share this little adventure with them in person.

Stay tuned for another Little Penny update in December!