Slice of the 80s: My Unforgettable Encounter with Square Pan Pizza

Picture it, the early 1980s. Let’s say between 1980 and 1982, because my memories from this time are like old photographs – a bit blurry and faded, but still precious. I was a young sprout, no older than seven.

One of my first vivid recollections is stepping into a pizza restaurant, Square Pan Pizza, to be exact. Joyce Maynard, the farm owner’s wife, was my guide for this culinary expedition. The reason for our visit to Escondido eludes me now, but it could have very well been medical. Perhaps my sister Norma was making her entrance into the world at Palomar Memorial Hospital, and we were there to welcome her. It strikes me as unusual that it was just Joyce and me on this adventure. Yet, as time marched on, Joyce was blossoming into a reflection of my American grandma, in ways both subtle and undeniable.

As I eased into my seat, a square slice of pepperoni pizza stared back at me. It was flanked by a humble salad – a setup so perfect for a kid’s appetite you’d think it was planned. This was likely my first dance with a kids combo meal.

The memory of that first bite may have blurred with time, but the taste? That’s as clear as crystal. Back then, my young tongue couldn’t quite articulate the symphony of flavors it was experiencing – the punchy sauce, the lush blanket of mozzarella, and the fiery pepperoni, all playing their parts on the warm stage of the crust.

Up until that point, my culinary world was filled with homemade Mexican staples like comforting caldo de pollo, frijoles pintos, frijoles refritos, and rustic tacos de papa with a slice of aguacate from the orchard. But this pizza? This was a wild ride into unknown territory. And just like Bourdain, I was all in for the adventure.

This was my culinary epiphany, my iconic Ratatouille moment. Even the salad, drizzled with a tangy Italian dressing, was a revelation. The sharp vinegar notes introduced my palate to an exciting new dimension of flavors. From that day forward, both pizza and vinegar-dressed salads had gained a devoted fan.

Leadership Lessons

1. Openness to New Experiences: Life is a bit like trying a new dish. It might seem a bit scary at first, but it’s this courage to sample the unfamiliar that often sets apart those who lead. So, go ahead, take a bite out of life and savor the taste of adaptability and openness.
2. Guidance and Mentorship: Consider this – imagine a friend like Joyce, guiding you through a world of flavors you’ve never tasted before. That’s a lot like leadership – guiding your team through unexplored territories. It’s about being there, adding just the right spices of support and guidance.
3. Embracing the Unknown: Leadership is about having the grit to step out of your comfort zones.
4. Learning from Past Experiences: Ever had one of those meals where the details are blurry, but the taste still lingers on your tongue? Those are the moments that shape us. As a leader, it’s your job to learn from these experiences, both the sweet and the sour, and use them to make better decisions.
5. Appreciation of Diversity: Lastly, think about all the wonderful foods from around the world – Mexican staples, pizza, and more. They’re all different, yet all delicious in their own right. That’s what diversity in a team is like. Each member brings their unique flavor to the table, and that’s what makes the meal complete.