Name: Aginah Maltabes
Hometown: Hopewell
Business: Pizza Den, Princeton
New Jersey Family: Did you have any background in the restaurant world before opening Pizza Den?
Aginah Maltabes: My husband owned Hoagie Haven in Princeton. I became a food sales rep and quickly realized I wanted to run my own restaurant.
NJF: Why did you choose to open a pizza place?
AM: When I threw my son’s pizza-making birthday party, the fun and joy it brought to the parents and kids was such an inspirational moment. I knew then I wanted to open my business.
NJF: What makes Pizza Den unique?
AM: We’re a small shop with a big impact. We’re women-led, Black-owned and make amazing brick oven pizza, while adding style and detail to every aspect of the business.
NJF: How do you balance work and motherhood?
AM: I teach my children about all aspects of running a business and the value of hard work. They also see the pleasure of running a successful, thriving business. We close on Sundays and take a day of rest for well-being and to ensure I get extra quality time with my kids.
NJF: What’s the best business advice you’ve received?
AM: My Greek father-in-law said, “You have to learn to stomach hard and stressful situations and remember patience is key.”
NJF: How do you hope to inspire others?
AM: As a mother and business owner, I understand the importance of showing other women and girls that having a business is truly possible.