5 /5 Greg McLaughlin: So, 2025-26 New Years Eve. I went to my daughters to take care of her cats. In my west home, I was passing Shandra’s and the lights were on. Sweet! I pull into the snow covered parking lot and get out. I’m parked on the lines. But perpendicular to them, and essentially preventing anyone else from parking because I’m taking up four parking spots but couldn’t see the lines until I was walking in. As I approach the door, I see that they’re closing at 8:30 and it’s 8:29. I walk in and say, I’m not THAT customer. It’s New Years Eve and I work retail, so I ask if they have anything left over that they want to unload before closing the doors. They have a no onion pizza that was never picked up, so I take it and left a tip.
As I begin driving home, I notice the aroma permeating my car. I’m tempted to park. I resist. I get home, 45 minutes later, and start reheating a few slices in my cast iron. I can’t wait. A cold slice (I fed the cats and got out of work clothes, it’s been over an hour since picking up the pizza) enters my mouth. My body erupts with delight! I like cold pizza about as much as hot, but this is delightful.
I type, hoping to hold out for a freshly reheated slice, while three slices fill my cast iron skillet. Will I make it? Will my second slice be hot? That’s still to be determined, but the only facts of my entire experience is that I WILL be back. I will abstain from consuming solid foods both the day of and the day after my second visit, and I will be buying at least two pizzas. One for me, and as many as I need to feed however many of my kids as will be home for dinner. I’d really like to avoid fighting over a slice, but can’t rule out the possibility.
To those who worked this evening, thank you for the last minute appetite quenching. I’ll be back for more, several times in 2026 despite the 25 miles of asphalt that lies between us. Your pizza stands tall among the best pizza that I’ve tried, and I drove to Chicago and straight back just to try some Chicago pizza. That said, happy new year y’all, and thank you for being open on NYE and allowing me to try an excellent local shop!
I’d also like to apologize in advance as you may find me sleeping on your curb, waiting patiently for that glorious “open” sign to alight. I won’t harass you and will give you time to heat the oven so you can produce a fantastic delight for my palate. Also, where’s my gym keyfob? I’m going to need it so I can make you a regular stop.