Jim Gordon

In this episode, Jim Gordon, owner of Peninsula Prime in Cornelius, joins the podcast to share how 2025 became a pivotal turnaround year for the upscale steakhouse. After taking full operational control in January 2025, Jim and his wife Robin rebuilt the restaurant from the ground up — starting with aesthetics, modernizing systems and processes, and redefining the brand’s identity.

Jim opens up about the three pillars now guiding Peninsula Prime: hospitality, quality, and community. He shares how the book Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara shaped his approach, why he spent six months listening to guest feedback before rewriting the menu, and how new GM Dawn Serens is helping elevate the entire team.

Whether you’re a longtime Peninsula Prime guest or new to Lake Norman, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn around a beloved restaurant — and do it with heart.

Visit Peninsula Prime: 18665 Harborside Dr, Cornelius, NC

https://www.peninsulaprimelkn.com/

About the Host:

Jeff Hamm is the creator and producer of The Best of LKN. He’s a licensed real estate broker and savvy digital marketing professional.

Since 2020, Jeff has been sharing the stories of Lake Norman’s most inspiring small businesses and nonprofits.

When he isn’t working, you can usually find Jeff boating on Lake Norman, traveling in his RV, hiking local greenways, and taking walks with his dogs Sam and Maisy.

Photo credit: LKN Images by Kathleen Martin