Tribute to Dimitrios (Jimmy) Lontorfos

Southampton Township honoree at the Pine Barrens Festival - 2008

Southampton Township is proud to salute Dimitrios (Jimmy) Lontorfos for his many contributions to the people of Southampton and the region. Quietly, silently and without expecting any recognition, Jimmy and his partners make many contributions to local causes that enhance the quality of life of the people of Southampton, where the family has operated their business for the past 35 years.

If there is a crisis in our community, Jimmy and the Red Lion Diner can be counted on to generously help out where needed; if there is an event or project which benefits the kids of our community, Jimmy and his partners are there to support it – but always, behind the scenes. According to Jimmy, it is just his way of showing gratitude for the opportunity to “Live the American Dream” in our small rural community, and a way of “giving back” to the people who, as faithful customers, have contributed so much to his success.

Jimmy bought the relatively new diner in 1973 and over the past 35 years has witnessed many changes. In the early days, Southampton was considered too remote for Philadelphia merchants to deliver vegetables and fish here, so Jimmy and his partners had to drive to Philly to get them. He has witnessed the increase in traffic on Routes 70 and 206 over the past 35 years, but the really fun part of being here for so long is that many patrons who used to be brought to the Diner by their parents when they were children, are now returning with their own children and grandchildren. It is truly a family and community business.

The eating habits of residents have also changed dramatically over the past 35 years, and the Red Lion Diner has changed with them. The diner grew with the community, with an addition in 1978 and the tasteful remodeling and upgrading of the facility in 1990. The menu has also gone through transitions. In the past, the only time you’d find Turkey on the menu was at Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The Red Lion Diner is one of Southampton’s landmark treasures, and it is because of the dedication and sensitivity of people like Jimmy Lontorfos, who sees his diner more as a community center than simply a business and treats his patrons as “family” and friends rather than simply “customers”, that we recognize him for his outstanding service to our community. We thank Jimmy for all the other things he has generously done for our community behind the scenes. Southampton is stronger and better because of Jimmy’s many silent contributions and generous spirit, and we recognize him as an honorary resident of Southampton Township.