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Papa Saverios serves an array of pizza pies in Aurora

An interview with co-owner Kevin Niedospial

Q: Describe your business. What do you do?

A: We are a carryout and delivery pizzeria that specializes in true Chicago-style pizzas, pastas, and salads. We offer thin crust, hand-tossed double dough, and the traditional deep dish, stuffed and pan-style pizzas. We also do catering from 15-300 people.

Q: What made you start your business?

A: When I was young, I used to work in a pizzeria in McHenry and it was always a dream of mine to open up a pizza place. While working for the Eby-Brown company for 18 years in Aurora, I grew fond of the area and realized this was the perfect time in my life to open one up. It was a perfect fit.

Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?

A: The most difficult obstacle has been the economy. It’s a combination of the loss of jobs of employees around us, coupled with less people having the income to eat at a pizza place. It has forced us to adjust to try and attract more customers.

Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?

A: I love to see a customer smile when they look at their pizza before they leave the store. I also love it when people call and tell me it was the best pizza they have ever eaten.

Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young?

A: I wanted to be a cowboy when I grew up, but as I stated earlier this has been a dream of mine since I was 15.

Q: What keeps you up at night?

A: Your mind is always thinking of ways to bring in more customers and retain the customers I already have. Pizza is a funny business!

Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?

A: Don’t ever give up. And always take a deep breath before you react to problems. I use the 24 hour rule — where I don’t react for 24 hours to a situation in front of me — and it seems to work nicely.

— Kim Mikus

Ÿ Every Monday we feature a small suburban business. If you are interested in participating, please contact us at kmikus@dailyherald.com.

Papa Saverio’s Pizzeria

Business: Papa Saverio’s Pizzeria

Address: 1480 North Orchard Road, Aurora

Owners: Kevin and Kelly Niedospial

Year business started: 2005

Web address: Papasaverios.com