Don Vassiliadis is a community minded man through and through. As the 2nd generation owner of the Shish-Kabob Hut, located at 220 King St. in downtown Peterborough, he realizes that in order for his business to continuously be successful he has to know the needs of the community and customers he is surrounded by daily.

The restaurant, which originally opened in 1976, has been in its current location since 1994. Its 19 year anniversary is being celebrated this month (August) and he is very proud of being in business this long. Unless you’re a city historian, you probably wouldn’t guess that the current location he's in was originally a car garage when first built.

Serving Greek food at its finest, the menu touches on many traditional favourites from various Souvlaki dishes to Shish-Kabob and Pita Bread platters covering a massive array of meat options. To cover a vegetarian customer base as well, they offer great soups and salads and many out-of-this-world cheese influenced choices. Dishes that are a can’t-miss are the Tigania (a spicy stir-fry masterpiece) and the Hot Peppers and Feta, which is requested more than most of the restaurants options.

Don and his excellent staff know that great food is only one part of the entire experience and they try to create an unforgettable experience from beginning to end. The atmosphere inside is very vibrant and will keep you on the edge of your seat as soon as you get seated!

The Shish-Kabob Hut has been involved in many community events such as the Taste of Downtown and more recently Rib Fest. Don and his crew brought a local flavour to the event, which was well received by lovers of local business. The restaurant was even featured on You Gotta Eat Here in an episode that is still in heavy rotation on Food Network Canada.

Out of the original restaurant business has spawned two other ventures: a catering company and a party rental business as well. In 2010, for example, the business was responsible for catering the Dragon Boat Festival Gala and it also catered the Chiefs of Police Dinner when it was hosted in Peterborough earlier this year.

Always wanting to learn more about his community has kept Don very busy outside of its operating hours. He has been involved with the DBIA Marketing Committee, was the Chair of the United Way, and has also worked with Showplace and Crime Stoppers in various capacities.

One of Don’s favourite activities outside of the restaurant are the cooking classes he has offered to those who might never get the experience of one, as well as working with the YWCA’s Nourish Peterborough.

Don is truly entrenched in downtown Peterborough and wants to see success in every facet. His personality is unmatched and his dedication shines through in his restaurant. If you haven’t been inside its walls, we suggest you experience it as soon as possible!