The Lake of the Ozarks was 60 years younger than it is today when little PB & family made the move from their home on the South side of Chicago to start a new life here in central Missouri. It didn’t take long for PB to get aclimated to his new surroundings. Living in the beauty and peacefulness of the
lake area in the 60’s and 70’s had many advantages compared to a childhood growing up in the he
art of a fast-paced
major metropolis. But there were disadvantages as well. While it was wonderful to have an entire cove to swim, fish and play in all to
yourself, it could also prove to be lonely. Finding a nearby chum was not in the cards. The distance between homes
was considerable. One Halloween night, PB actually soaped his own Mother’s Buick LaSabre because doing it to a neighbors car required a 5 mile hike. She knew it was obvioulsy him and punishment was swift. Little PB was ok with
it as now he had a great story to tell his friends the next day at school! It was worth it because being grounded meant
staying indoors and playing...in the kitchen! PB’s Mom, Grandmother and Aunt were great cooks. They shared their culinary secrets with all the kids and explained why things are done the way they are. It didn’t matter if it was spaghetti sauce, lasagna, polenta, gnocci or baking a sweet break-away cake (monkey bread) to go with the morning Folgers, being in the kitchen was great family time. One day, Grandma Spero said... “Billy, I’m doing the best I can here in the Ozarks with what I have, but I wish I could get “the good stuff” like
we had in Chicago.” When friends from up North would visit, they were sure to bring “the good stuff” along with them. Things that just were not
available here in those days. Ricotta, gorgonzola and romano cheeses, fresh Italian sausages and meats, the best olive oils, spices and fresh-baked breads. When all the pieces were in place, it was amazing to watch Grandma do her thing while watching and learning how to do it the right way. Doing it the right way is what Pepperoni Bill’s is about. Just a few of the items that are prepared from scratch include gyro meat, Italian beef, pita
pockets, Italian bread, all pizza dough, most dressings and all sauces, from alfredo to tzatziki! The menu is comprised of many of the comfort foods
that PB loved as a kid. He is proud to share them with you and your families!
