Welcome to an inspiring episode of The Pizza Story Podcast! Today, we’re diving deep into the history and passion behind 399 Pizza, a family business that has grown into a local legend with five popular locations across the San Gabriel Valley area of California.

Our guest is Angel Solis, who didn't just join the pizza business—he was born into it! Angel shares what it was like growing up in the pizzeria since his parents purchased the very first location in West Covina back in 1993, when he was just six years old. For Angel, pizza isn't a job; it's a way of life, a family legacy, and a source of deep connection with his community.

Inside the Story: Building a Pizza Empire

Angel walks us through the highs and lows of building a multi-location business. He reveals the crucial lessons they learned the hard way—from mastering the tricky deck ovens (and getting the requisite burn marks!) to adapting their approach for each new city. The journey from a single mom-and-pop shop to five successful pizzerias is a testament to the family's resilience and commitment to quality.

🎧 Episode Highlights 

✅ The Price That Built an Empire: Hear the incredible, almost unbelievable story behind the name "399 Pizza," which dates back to a time when a large cheese pizza really sold for that price!

✅ The COVID-19 Survival Story: Angel shares the intense experience of operating five locations during the pandemic shutdown. It was a true test of grit, forcing them to adapt and ultimately making the business stronger.

✅ A Masterclass in Customer Love: Discover how Angel and his family treat their regulars like family. He shares how he knows what his customers want before they even walk through the door, embodying the dedication to service that his father taught him.

✅ The Menu: Must-Try Pies That Go Beyond Pepperoni: While their traditional pizza is top-notch (Angel explains why he always judges a pizzeria by its cheese pie), 399 Pizza is known for its inventive, flavorful specials that keep customers coming back. Get hungry as Angel describes their most popular creations:

✅ The Famous Pastrami Pizza: A true showstopper featuring a light mustard base, mozzarella, juicy pastrami, and a drizzle of mustard and pickles after it comes out of the oven. This is their undisputed number one seller!

✅ South of the Border Flavor: The unique and delicious Mexican Pizza, made with refried beans, chorizo, jalapeños, and onions.

✅ Creamy and Spicy: The addictive Jalapeño Popper Pizza, topped with cream cheese, bacon, and breadcrumbs.

Follow 399 Pizza Glendora on Instagram @399pizza_Glendora or visit their website www.399pizzaglendora.com 

This is more than just a business interview; it's a celebration of the community spirit, tough lessons, and enduring family bond that only the pizza world can create. If you've ever dreamt of owning a pizzeria or just appreciate a damn good slice, tune in!

🎙Like, follow, and subscribe to The Pizza Story Podcast to watch Erica D’Arcangelo interview some of the most awesome and talented people in the pizza industry 👱🏼‍♀️.

🇮🇹 A Story About Pizza

Website: https://www.astoryaboutpizza.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astoryaboutpizza/ 

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@storyaboutpizza 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AStoryAboutPizza

A Story About Pizza Book: https://www.amazon.com/Story-About-Pizza-Erica-DArcangelo/dp/1917116993

Pietro’s Pizza Children’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Pietros-Pizza-Story-About/dp/B0DTYZ15WB/

Pietro’s Pizza Toppings Children’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FJM15W22/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0

Pietro’s Italian Christmas: https://www.amazon.com/Pietros-Italian-Christmas-Erica-DArcangelo/dp/B0G2GQX78W/