Antonios Minadakis is the Co-Owner and Executive Chef at Jimmy’s Famous Seafood! As Executive Chef, ‘Tony’ is responsible for bringing all craft culinary visions to fruition. In addition to directing day-to-day operations and business development ventures, which include but are not limited to Jimmy’s Food Truck, Cocktail Trailer and Steam Trailer, brand partnerships, catering, banquets, and sister company Jimmy’s Famous Meals. He also leads the culinary team in developing and executing a frequent rotation of new specialty meals.
Tony was, quite literally, raised in the business. Living in an apartment on top of Jimmy’s he would eagerly help founder and his beloved father, Jimmy, since he could walk. He has mastered every position in the industry, beginning as a dishwasher and busser, before eventually making his way into the kitchen, where we strongly feel he belongs. It was there where he discovered his passion for culinary arts, absorbing advice and knowledge like a sponge.
Chef Tony was featured four times on The Food Network, wowing Guy Fieri with his signature Colossal Crab Cakes. Since then, he’s battled Bobby Flay, and has been featured on several other national cooking shows, including two appearances on Travel Channel and a feature episode on Ginormous Foods.
Connect with Tony on LinkedIn
Jim Chivers – Senior Vice President – Gold and Company, LLC
Joining Gold and Company in 2006, Jim has established himself as a major producer in the Baltimore commercial real estate scene. Combining strong interpersonal skills, loyalty, and market knowledge, Jim works diligently to expedite transactions to the finish line. Chivers Graduated from Loyola University in 2005 and played college basketball during that time. When he is not working Jim is the color commentator for Loyola University Greyhounds Basketball Color Analyst on ESPN. Jim is a native of Minnesota and has real estate in his genes. His dad is a well-known real estate broker back home. Jim is married to Cecilia and is a father to Caroline and Cameron. Jim and his family live in Baltimore. www.goldcommercial.net.
Connect with Jim on LinkedIn
Interview questions:
Q1: You and your brother grew up in the second level above the restaurant – give us the history of Jimmy’s Seafood and what have you and your family done over the years to expand your business and real estate
Q2: How has your experience been working with your brother as a co-owner, and what strategies do you use to navigate decision-making, resolve disagreements, and overcome challenges in your business partnership?
Q3: How has your experience been working with your brother as a co-owner, and what strategies do you use to navigate decision-making, resolve disagreements, and overcome challenges in your business partnership?
Q4: You are now doing a Baltimore Ravens tailgate and have a partnership with the Ravens and teamed up with other city projects. How important is the Baltimore community engagement to your business, and what role has it played in your restaurant’s success?
Q5: There are plenty of options in the Baltimore area to find a crab cake, burger, or seafood – What do you think sets Jimmy’s Seafood apart from other seafood and food options in the area?
Q6: You’ve developed a full-sized commercial kitchen in the Holabird Industrial Park—can you share insights into your projects beyond the restaurant and what we can expect next from the Jimmy’s Seafood brand?
Q7: As a partner of the Baltimore Ravens, you recently took a road trip for Ravens road games to explore the food scene in various cities. Which cities stood out to you the most, and what impressed you about their culinary offerings?
Q8: Social media has played a significant role in Jimmy’s Seafood’s success. How has it influenced your marketing strategy and customer engagement?
Q9: How does Jimmy’s Seafood navigate rising costs in food, labor, and operations while maintaining profitability and delivering high-quality offerings?
Q10: What are some of the restaurant industry trends that you are seeing excite you the most right now?
Q11: What advice would you give to aspiring restaurant owners looking to succeed in this competitive industry?
Q12: What legacy do you hope to leave with Jimmy’s Seafood, both for your family and the community?
Since 1974, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood has proudly served the community with iconic culinary creations, unmatched philanthropy, and legendary hospitality.
Founded by the late Dimitrios “Jimmy” Minadakis, “The Famous” quickly became a Maryland landmark as a direct result of his unrivaled work ethic.
Today, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood carries on his vision through his sons, who display the same passion and diligence that he was beloved for.
Jimmy’s Famous Seafood has since tripled in size, once a bingo hall, our building now boasts an elegant Dining Room, 2 Banquet Halls, 3 Bars and 2 Outdoor Seating Areas.
While we call Charm City our home, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood went Nationwide in 2010. With our own Shipping Warehouse and skilled team of packers, we are able to share our beloved recipes Coast to Coast.
With hard work, dedication and the love for food & family, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood has climbed new, unimaginable heights. Minadakis may be the family name, but our staff of over 200 employees are considered equally a part of the family.
Thanks to our team, we were able to bring our vision to Living Room screens across America. Featuring on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives, Beat Bobby Flay and more.
Our stadium staff allows for the opportunity to serve major arenas such as M&T Bank Stadium, Camden Yards and Nationals Park.
Charm City continues to be our home, allowing us to employ a plethora of talented, dynamic locals devoted to providing every guest with a famously good experience.
Recent Events: https://jimmysfamousseafood.com/famous-events/
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