local business owners who’ve seen firsthand the ‘519 effect’. For example, one pizza shop in Springfield was struggling to stay open until Jesse’s post went viral. “They haven’t struggled since then,” he says proudly. “They even had to adjust their business model to keep up with the demand.” Despite the attention, Jesse insists Dine in 519 isn’t about money. “I get hundreds of emails a week from chains asking me to post, but I’d rather support small businesses. There are other ways to make a living. I’ve launched ‘merch’, hosted events like Brunch Fest, and I’m working on a podcast with a big media company. But I won’t compromise the integrity of what I’m doing. Once you lose that, it kills the whole point.” His honesty has earned him respect and impact. A single Dine in 519 feature can change the course of a local restaurant’s business. “It’s crazy,” he admits. “You see line-ups out the door at places that were struggling a week earlier. That feeling’s hard to beat.” Still, Jesse is mindful of balance. “I post maybe two spots a week now. If I don’t like a place, I won’t post it. I can have a positive impact, but also a negative one, so I’d rather focus on the good.” With events, new merch, and an upcoming podcast on the way, Jesse’s influence continues to grow, but his focus remains grounded in the community that built him. “At the end of the day, my heart’s in the right place. I’m doing my best to highlight the great spots we have here. My track record’s pretty good,” he says with a grin. Whether it’s a hidden bakery in Komoka, a pizza shop in Springfield, or a gem in Port Stanley, Dine in 519 is proving that local food still has the power to bring people together, one bite, one post, and one story at a time.
the 519-area code really is,” he says. “I get asked if I’ll expand beyond it, but there’s still so much to cover right here.” He’s featured spots from Port Stanley, Springfield, to St. Thomas. “I love Two Forks in Port Stanley; it’s a great spot -- great food, great experience,” and he has built relationships with
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Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 15
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