Northwest Indiana Business Magazine has been shining a light on the Region's business community for 35 years. To celebrate, we are featuring the entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their communities.
In this installment of our Entrepreneurship Q&A, we feature Rosati's Pizza locations in St. John and Valparaiso.
Darin and Nancy Jacobs opened the St. John location on Memorial Day in 2016. This year, they have a special celebration planned to commemorate the milestone. The 10-year anniversary bash from 1 to 3 p.m. June 27 will include free slices of pizza, raffles, giveaways and fun.
“We are incredibly grateful to the St. John community for supporting us over the last 10 years,” said Darin Jacobs, franchisee owner of Rosati’s Pizza in St. John. “Nancy and I have loved being part of this community and serving families, friends, teams and neighbors over the years.”
He said they chose a Rosati's franchise because pizza is his favorite food, and he was a longtime customer. They started their Crown Point company Jacobs & Jacobs in 2016 to manage their franchise locations. They opened the Valparaiso location in 2017. They now employ 43 people.
“We want to thank everyone who has ordered a pizza, celebrated with us, recommended us or made Rosati’s part of their family traditions,” Darin Jacobs said. “We look forward to feeding St. John for the next 10 years and beyond.”
Question: What is your mission statement:
Answer: At Rosati's Pizza of St. John, our mission is to serve authentic Chicago-style pizza and Italian favorites with exceptional quality, outstanding service and genuine hospitality. We are committed to creating a welcoming environment for our guests, supporting our local community, and providing a positive workplace where our team members can grow and succeed. Every meal we serve reflects our dedication to family, tradition and delivering an experience that keeps our customers coming back.
Q: What was the catalyst for the business?
A: I was a long time Rosati's Pizza customer and pizza is my favorite food
Q: What is your background/education?
A: I started my first legal business as a high school senior. I have owned and operated numerous businesses.
Q: What is a goal for the future?
A: To continue serving our customers the freshest, best-tasting Chicago pizza anywhere. And serving the community by giving back as we always have.
Q: What goal have you accomplished so far?
A: Rosati’s has proudly become a trusted destination for Chicago-style pizza in St. John, building lasting community support and a loyal following over the past 10 years.
Q: Who helped you along the way?
A: Our CEO Jeff Rosati and the entire support staff. Most importantly, the corporate training staff who helped us with our successful launch.
Q: A book, movie, or TV show that inspired you?
A: Every Zig Zigler book (Zigler was an American author of more than 30 books, salesman and motivational speaker)
Q: Favorite inspirational quote?
A: “The early bird gets the worm,” because I'm always up at 5 a.m. and can't wait to start my work.
Rosati’s Pizza at 10033 Wicker Ave. in St. John and 2160 W. Morthland Drive in Valparaiso offer carryout, delivery and catering.
Our Entrepreneurship Q&A spotlights the bold thinkers and doers shaping the future of the Region. We hear from local entrepreneurs who are turning ideas into impact — sharing their insights, challenges and the stories behind their businesses. The column celebrates innovation right here at home. To nominate an entrepreneur, email the editor at news@nwindianabusiness.com.
