A year of triumphs and trials: the inspiring story of Spacca Napoli's owner.
In the heart of Chicago, a remarkable journey unfolded for Jonathan Goldsmith, the talented pizzamaker behind Spacca Napoli. Amidst the prestigious Jean Banchet Awards, where Chicago's culinary elite gathered, Spacca Napoli emerged as the city's top pizza destination, a triumph decided by none other than the people themselves. But this achievement was just the beginning of an extraordinary year for Goldsmith and his wife, Ginny Sykes.
Little did the audience know that beneath the celebration, Goldsmith was battling stomach cancer. Just days after accepting the Banchet Award with grace, he faced a life-changing surgery to remove the tumor. It was a challenging time, but the couple's resilience shone through.
"Going through cancer is like a wrecking ball," Sykes shared. Yet, with great care and support, Goldsmith's surgery was a success, and his doctors declared him "cancer clean." It was a weight off their shoulders, and a new chapter began.
The road to recovery had its twists. Initially scheduled for chemotherapy, Goldsmith's body couldn't bear the side effects. His doctor opted for regular check-ups instead, and the couple embraced a new normal.
When I caught up with Goldsmith recently, he reflected on the unknowns he faced earlier in the year. He wasn't sure if he'd be able to travel to Italy, a dream he held onto tightly. But, with determination, he made the trip over the summer, and it was an emotional moment.
"To be able to do that was just a big thing," he said, his eyes glistening. "It meant I was well enough."
In the months that followed, Goldsmith and Sykes traveled, cherishing a sense of normalcy. They're looking forward to more adventures in the new year, including a trip to Mexico.
"I hope to find ease in 2026," Sykes said. "To take things a little slower."
However, the restaurant industry hasn't made it easy. With challenges facing immigrant workers and tariffed imported goods, Spacca Napoli, reliant on international ingredients, faces a unique set of pressures.
"It's frustrating to have to address these issues on top of everything else," Sykes explained. "It's heavy, really heavy."
Goldsmith is committed to understanding the shifting policies, both locally and federally, that impact their business. Despite the uncertainty, he and Sykes are determined to keep Spacca Napoli thriving, a beloved community fixture.
"I don't feel comfortable giving up," he said. "This place is my happy place, my second home."
This year, Goldsmith found appreciation for all they've achieved, a sense of pride and gratitude.
"It's been a chance to reflect and feel good about what we've created."
A remarkable story of resilience and love, Spacca Napoli's journey continues, inspiring us all.
