For 45 years, the Pioneer Diner in Mount Pocono has been more than just a restaurant; it’s been a family tradition and a cornerstone of the community. As Labor Day approaches, this beloved local eatery is marking a significant milestone – nearly half a century of serving up homemade goodness and warm hospitality.
“This place will be 45 years old,” proudly states Nick Korovesis, the current manager and chef of Pioneer Diner. Nick’s father, Constantine Korovesis, has been the heart and soul of the diner since 1971, owning and operating it at its familiar location on 508 Pocono Boulevard.
Nick’s journey with the Pioneer Diner is a lifelong one. “All together I’ve been here about 30 of those years,” he recounts. “I was thrown into it at 12 years old, busing tables.” This early immersion instilled in him a deep connection to the diner and its customers.
The story of Pioneer Diner is also a story of family heritage and the American dream. Constantine and Aglaia Korovesis, Nick’s parents, both hail from Marathon, Greece. Constantine’s journey to America began at the young age of 16. “My father came over at age 16 without knowing any English other than a few words,” Nick explains. After learning English and completing high school, Constantine served in the Korean War, demonstrating his commitment to his adopted country. His entrepreneurial spirit then led him to a partnership in the Highway Diner in Long Island, New York.
Fate, and family, intervened when Constantine’s cousin, the owner of the Mount Pocono diner, decided to return to Greece. “His first cousin owned this place and was moving to Greece,” Nick shares. “He asked my dad if he’d like to relocate. Sure enough, here we are.” In 1971, Constantine took over, renaming it Pioneer Diner and opening its doors that Labor Day Monday.
At 83 years young, Constantine remains a daily presence at the Pioneer Diner, a testament to his enduring passion. Nick, too, is deeply committed, starting his day before dawn. “It’s rise and shine at 4:30 in the morning,” Nick says. “I’m usually here by quarter after five.” As chef, he brings his culinary expertise to the diner, crafting daily specials, comforting soups, rich gravies, and house-made baking mixes. The emphasis on fresh, homemade food is a key ingredient in the Pioneer Diner’s long-lasting appeal. “Everything at the diner is homemade from scratch,” Nick emphasizes.
The Pioneer Diner’s success is not solely attributed to the Korovesis family. Loyalty extends to the dedicated staff, many of whom have been with the diner for decades. “My employees probably average about 17 years or more working here,” Nick notes, highlighting the family-like atmosphere. Remarkably, one waitress, Sue Smith, has been a fixture even longer than the Korovesis family, having worked for the diner under its previous owner, marking an incredible 47 years of service. “I wouldn’t trade my girls for anything,” Nick says, expressing his appreciation for his long-serving team.
Customers at the Pioneer Diner are often greeted personally by Constantine. Even if you don’t see him right away, there’s a sure way to spot him. “He wears his Korean War Veteran hat every single day,” Nick says. This hat is a symbol of Constantine’s deep pride. “My dad is proud of three things: his family, his country and his business,” Nick concludes.
For 45 years, the Pioneer Diner has stood as a testament to hard work, family values, and community connection. It’s a place where homemade food is served with a side of history and heartfelt hospitality. Here’s to many more years of the Pioneer Diner rolling along in the Poconos.
