Khanh Nguyen remembers vividly the events of the day his family escaped Vietnam in 1975 as the Vietnam War neared its end. Despite the risks involved, Nguyen’s father, a high-ranking officer in the Vietnamese army, orchestrated their safe passage out of the country. Their journey took them from Vietnam to the Philippines and Guam before they finally arrived at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California. After completing the citizenship process, they made their way to Arkansas and eventually settled in Boston, where Nguyen’s elder brother was pursuing his college education. Initially cramped in a one-bedroom apartment with a family of 11, they later relocated to Virginia before finally making Houston their home in 1979. Nguyen pursued higher education at the University of Houston and the University of Texas at Austin, eventually transitioning to various executive roles before venturing into the restaurant industry with the launch of Zalat Pizza in 2015.
Reflecting on the pivotal moments of his life-altering journey, Nguyen recounts the dramatic events that unfolded:
The family’s departure from Saigon was marked by uncertainty, as they sought refuge in a coastal city with hopes of boarding a boat to safety. Despite initial setbacks and a failed escape plan, a serendipitous incident involving a spilled bowl of pho altered their fate. This unforeseen event prevented them from returning to Saigon just before its fall, a decision that likely saved Nguyen’s father from peril. Subsequently, they embarked on a perilous journey at sea, eventually finding themselves alongside an American battleship where they had to navigate treacherous waters to safety.
The harrowing voyage continued as they sought refuge on the overcrowded battleship, where makeshift facilities and cramped conditions became their new reality. The transition to Manila, Philippines, and later to Guam marked significant milestones in their journey, with the community’s support playing a crucial role in their resettlement in the United States. The hospitality and assistance provided by volunteers and sponsors facilitated their integration into American society, offering them a fresh start amidst the challenges of adapting to a new country and culture.
The family’s subsequent moves to various states, including Boston, Virginia, and ultimately Houston, underscored their resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Nguyen’s career trajectory from software sales to entrepreneurship reflects his unwavering determination and innovative spirit. His foray into the restaurant business, driven by his passion and ambition, exemplifies his entrepreneurial flair and willingness to embrace new challenges.
Nguyen’s entrepreneurial journey, characterized by his restless creativity and ability to thrive in high-pressure environments, is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. His unique perspective, shaped by a turbulent upbringing and a relentless pursuit of new opportunities, sets him apart as a dynamic and forward-thinking entrepreneur in the competitive business landscape.