FLINT, Michigan — Photojournalist Jenifer Veloso recently visited Niko's Family Diner (1252 N. Ballenger Hwy) to grab a bite and take photos of the new restaurant with deep roots in Flint. The diner was previously known as Captain Coty's which served the Flint community for over 35 years until a devastating fire happened in July 2022, causing the business to shut down due to significant smoke damage.

This year, local owners Mark and Shelby Gjonaj, decided to rebuild the restaurant and name it after their 2-year-old son, bringing the popular diner back to the area and back to life. Since the grand opening, the response has been positive as satisfied customers have raved about the delicious food options and welcoming waitstaff on the diner's Facebook page. 

We at Flintside wish Niko's Family Diner much success in the new year and thank them for keeping business going in the Ballenger Highway neighborhood. 

Check out the photo-gallery below to view the photos Jenifer took while visiting the new diner: