‘Jimmy the Greek’ Wins Award for Service to Local Military Families

Local business owners Demitrios “Jimmy” and Elani Zotos were given the “Military Friendly Business of the Year” for their efforts to help military families in the area.

Working with organizations like Blue Star Moms and Home for Troops, Jimmy and Elani have donated food, collected money and held raffles to help build military families’ homes and send supplies to the troops.

The couple was bestowed the honor by the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce and the Stafford County Board of Supervisors.

Owners of the Jimmy the Greek restaurant on Garrisonville Road in Stafford, the couple has spent more than 27 years in the restaurant business. Their commitment to aiding military families began when Elani became an U.S. citizen, creating a large handmade flag to display at their business.

In addition to their work with these organizations, they offer a 10% discount to all military personnel at their restaurant, and often purchase meals for military members that eat at Jimmy the Greek. They have even established a special parking space for wounded warriors at the restaurant.

“I love to help. They deserve it. Without the military, we’re nothing. They’re doing so much for our country,” Elani said.

To recognize their efforts, the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Council awarded them the “Military Friendly Business of the Year Award” at a ceremony at the University of Mary Washington.

The Stafford County Board of Supervisors also commended them formally for their efforts at the December 17 meeting.

“We feel very good – very special. It feels very good to be recognized,” Jimmy said.

Photo: Demitrios “Jimmy” Zotos, by Stephanie Tipple