Mike’s Story

1951: A New Beginning

Mike Diorides immigrated to the United States from Cyprus, seeking new opportunities alongside his mother, sister, nephew, and two nieces. The family settled in Norfolk, Virginia, eager to build a new life. Shortly after arriving, Mike began working for his uncle at The Fleet, a lively restaurant just outside Naval Station Norfolk’s Gate 2.

In 1959, Mike returned to Cyprus—not just for a visit, but with the hope of finding a wife. From the moment he saw Eglie, he knew she was the one. It was love at first sight. Within two weeks, they were married. Soon after, they returned to Norfolk together, beginning a lifelong journey side by side. And the rest, as they say, is history.

1960s: The Fleet

Mike worked tirelessly alongside his family at The Fleet restaurant for many years, contributing to its success and reputation. In the 1960s, Mike and his brother-in-law took over ownership, officially stepping into leadership roles and continuing the family legacy.

1977: Mike’s Pizza

In 1977, Mike and his wife, Eglie, opened Mike’s Pizza, choosing the location strategically to be near the Naval Bases. As Mike often said, "When the ships are in, business is in."

1990s: Helen & Dave

In the 1990s, As Mike and Eglie were ready to think about a much earned retirement, they asked their daughter, Helen Emmons and her husband, Master Chief Petty Officer David Emmons, U.S. Navy SEAL (Ret.) to step in and run the family business. David, went into the reserves, allowing him to spend more time with his family and working at the restaurant. A few years later, Helen’s sister, Chrissie, joined them, continuing the tradition of family at the heart of the restaurant.

But retirement? That was just a nice idea, Mike and Eglie never actually left.

2000s: A Family Affair

After 9/11, David was recalled back to active duty in the Navy, and Maria, the youngest of the Diorides sisters, stepped in to help, joining the family business to work at Mike’s full-time.

To this day, all three sisters keep Mike’s running with the same love and dedication their parents instilled. Stop by at the right time, and you might still find Eglie in the kitchen—and no matter when you visit, you’ll certainly find Mike’s legacy all around.

2019: Mediterranean Market

In 2019, Mike’s Pizza expanded to include a gourmet Mediterranean market, bringing even more of our culture’s flavors and traditions to the community. As we noticed a growing interest in international products—both within the Navy and among our customers—we saw an opportunity to share the ingredients and goods that have been a part of our family for generations.

The specialty market offers a curated selection of Mediterranean groceries, premium olive oils, imported wines, home décor, cookbooks, tableware, and more—bringing a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.

Helen Emmons, Owner of Mike's Pizza, pictured in the 1990s.

Mike Diorides, founder of Mike's Pizza pictured with daughter and now owner of Mike's Pizza, Helen Emmons.

Helen Emmons and her husband, Master Chief Petty Officer David Emmons, U.S. Navy SEAL (Ret.), owners of Mike's Pizza, pictured in the 90s.

David, Maria, Helen and Chrissie pictured at Mike's Pizza in the 90s!

Eglie Diorides pictured with granddaughters and long time Mike's Pizza employees, Leigh and Christina Emmons.

The Diorides Sisters—now known as Helen Emmons, Chrissie Powell, and Maria Rae, full of smiles running Mike's Pizza!

Helen Emmons, owner, pictured with nephew and Mike's employee, Michael Rea.

David Emmons, Co-Owner of Mike's Pizza, pictured in the 1990s.

It's a beautiful day to goto Mike's Pizza!

Eglie Diorides with her grand daughters, Christina Emmons and Melina Rea.

Master Chief Petty Officer David Emmons, U.S. Navy SEAL (Ret.) with his BUD/S class back in the day.