A Slice of the Action: Pizza Mike's Opens in Riverview

It takes something special to bring a business owner out of retirement. For Mike Stefanidis, that something was the Riverview community.

“I never thought I’d be back to work after retiring in January of 2024,” says Mike, the former owner of Bravo Pizza. “We were going to rest and do whatever retired people do. But this winter was terrible, and we missed the busyness, and most of all, the people.”

Mike and his wife Eleni took over 708 Coverdale Road and did a complete overhaul of the building, creating a new pizza empire, “Pizza Mike's.” Now when you drive by, you’ll notice the distinctive blue and white accents that are an homage to their Greek origins. The interior features a stunning mural of Santorini’s cliffside views, created by a local artist and longtime friend who shares their Greek heritage.

The personal touches don’t stop there—community connections are baked into every detail, inside and out. The cartoon-likeness of Mike on the front and centre of the building was designed by friend and fellow business owner, Colton Keirstead of Faded Views Barbershop. 

“I want everyone to know that they are welcome here,” says Mike. “As my grandfather used to say, ‘when the sun rises, it rises for everybody.’ Our favourite part of the business is the people we get to know.”

Mike and Eleni are overjoyed to be offering traditional hand-stretched pizza baked in a stone oven, as well as donairs, salads, and Greek desserts. 

So what could possibly motivate someone to trade the ease of retirement for the long hours of running a business again? For Mike and Eleni, it wasn’t about money or boredom—it was about connection. After decades of building friendships through their restaurant, they realized just how much they missed being part of people’s everyday lives. It’s the regulars who stop in for their usual order, the kids who peek over the counter to watch the pizza being made, the conversations at the till that start with “how’s your day going?” and end with real laughter. Riverview isn’t just where they work—it’s where they belong.

Mike and Eleni look forward to welcoming you to their new restaurant. Whether you’re ordering the popular meat pizza or requesting something a little different, these pizza connoisseurs are happy to oblige. Stop by their grand opening celebration on Wednesday, August 20, from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. There will be Greek sweets, prizes, and of course, pizza!