Meet Tommy Lucero | Comedian , Producer, and cook.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tommy Lucero and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tommy, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I had no balance at all as a younger comedian and producer. I was devoted more so to writing and trying to hone my stage performance, which unfortunately had me see the end of jobs and some relationships. These days I’ve found that staying focused on the specifics are very important, especially when on the road. I’m fortunate in that my “day job” is being a cook in places that keep me on my toes, which transfers over to the world of comedy swimmingly. The balance is much more goal oriented now, I’d like to achieve more than in past years especially now that I’ve stopped drinking. My eyes are a bit clearer to what I’d like to accomplish these days.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The things I’m most proud of is being able to set up shows on the road and do what I call the “40 oz to Funny Runs” where I’m fortunate enough to be able to use the connections I’ve made over the years with different venues in California. I’m able to do this while planning around my work schedule and take some of my funniest friends with me. The ability to go too new towns and help a crowd of people forget about anything going in on their own lives and just laugh and feel happy again is the best because that’s what comedy did for me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
A week long trip with me would be a foodie festival that’s heavy on the burger joints. I’m a huge lover of a well made burger and my pant size is proof. Some places are a “less is more” kinda vibe while others are just over the top but still perfect. Believe it or not San Diego is top notch when it comes to the masterful architecture of a ground beef beauty of a burger.

In an attempt to keep it somewhat brief while still delivering a good list I’ll keep it to a top 3. Main Tap Tavern’s BBQ Bacon Burger. Stacked higher than almost seems necessary but when you take that first bite, it all makes sense. 2, Crazee Burger is a North Park gem as far as I’m concerned. Nestled in a area where you can hit a local brewery post filling your face with some of the most exotic meats you’ve ever heard of, I recommend the wild Boar. 3, the hometown hero of burgers known as Hodad’s. Featured on the Food Network and in my hometown of Ocean Beach’s heart. When you’re there get a Double Bacon Cheeseburger basket, I’ll just tell you you’re welcome now.

Both the clientele and the staff at these spots are part of what makes them great. Greeted with a smile and either a unique flavor of bottled soda ( Crazee Burger), delicious chocolate Malt (Hodads), or a pint of a frosty SD local brew (Main Tap Tavern).

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Firstly, my biggest fan and supporter has always been my mom. She’s been very encouraging the entire time I’ve pursued comedy. When I was a small child I’d pretend to host “The Tommy Lucero Show” which my mom would sit and listen to me talk about. From then til now, she’s helped me promote shows, sell tickets, and not lose faith in my own abilities as a independent producer/performer.

Secondly, my fellow performers and artists. Not only are they talented beyond compare but the majority are also some of my best friends. Whenever I put together shows or tours those are who I primarily have involved since I have the UT most confidence in both them as a person and a performer.

Instagram: Tommytheroach

Twitter: @tommy_lucero

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TommyLucero1502

Yelp: Tommy the Roach Lucero

Youtube: https://youtube.com/user/619tommy619

Image Credits
Jacob Blaeser – Photography Rikke Bahena – Photography Dan Sanborn – logo