John and Hellen Kostsovos

Since opening its doors in 1971, Jim’s Pizzeria has been a favourite landmark in Peterborough. Known for its authentic Italian menu, excellent customer service, and affordable prices, Jim’s Pizzeria is a success story we can all learn from.

Along with their brothers and sisters, owners John and Hellen Kostsovos left Greece and landed in Montreal in 1959. After years of getting accustomed to the work ethic and way of life in Canada, the brothers decided to invest in the family restaurant business. Without disagreement over the name, they decided to call it "Jim’s"- after the brother with the shortest and easiest name to pronounce.

In 1969, the first branch of Jim’s Pizzeria opened in Belleville, Ontario, and was a great success. A year later, the family established a Jim's Pizzeria in Trenton, Ontario, a thriving affiliate still owned and operated by the family.  And in 1971 the family established the third Jim's Pizzeria in Peterborough.  John and Helen decided to stay and raise their family in Peterborough because they felt secure here. Their daughter Effie says, "Peterborough was small enough to feel safe, but large enough to sustain a profitable business".

With hard work and determination, the brothers were able to open restaurants in Whitby, Port Hope, and Vancouver. Another restaurant is opening in Port Perry in 2011. When asked what their secret to success has been, Effie says, "At that time, we were the first Italian restaurant in these small towns. We met the market’s demand for wholesome, Italian pizza. What made this possible was having a family that worked hard together, a family that still stayed close and connected. But the key to our success has been the support of our customers."

And how did this hardworking family win the support of their loyal customers? Effie believes it is "the sacrifice, dedication, and commitment to maintaining the excellence of a fresh, healthy product". All ingredients are home-made and free of preservatives. Operating a small restaurant also allowed them a more intimate connection with their customers, and the opportunity to be more attentive to clients’ needs. In return, the encouragement received from their patrons is held in high regard. According to Effie, "Business people value receiving some sort of support and appreciation. And that is because we can all use a touch of warmth in the sometimes cold world of business".

Today, her parents, John and Helen, are enjoying the rewards of their hard work. Their success in the restaurant industry has allowed them to expand their investments and fulfill their dreams of building a comfortable life for themselves and their children. The longevity of "Jim’s Pizzeria" has served as a template for other restaurant owners in need of direction. The Kostsovos continue to give back to the Peterborough community by encouraging and sponsoring family programs, and reminding us that with hard work, dedication, and support of a welcoming community, anything is possible.