DeWitt has missed its Flap Jack Restaurant. New owners are planning to reopen the breakfast spot

DEWITT TWP. — When the Flap Jack Restaurant closed nearly a year ago, community members were disappointed to lose the longtime breakfast spot.

Now, though, a new owner is reopening the business, and planning to rehire many of the people who previously worked at the restaurant, 12800 S. Old U.S. 27.

When the restaurant closed June 29, 2023, 20 employees were laid off. Nearly a year later, a makeover is underway with a planned reopening by fall.

According to manager Kasey Kesler, new owner Daryl Kesler's grandson, customers should expect the original menu. The building is getting new carpeting, a fresh paint job and new seats, and there will be an updated website, social media activity.

Garry and Judy Feehan, and Bud and Eleanor Wasson opened the restaurant in 1996. Garry Feehan closed the DeWitt restaurant in April 2008, but the Wassons renovated it and reopened the following October, according to State Journal archives.

Kesler, who said his grandfather is friends with the Wassons, has been in charge of the makeover and he said the renovation process has been meticulous. Kesler said he has been "workin' down the line on the punch list, taking it day by day."

With the restaurant's return on the horizon, past customers are anxiously waiting.

Emily Horne, an employee at Advanced Audiology, 12775 Escanaba Drive, a neighboring business, said she missed sharing early breakfasts with her coworkers and the consistency of a wholesome family-cooked meal.

Britanie Reed, a team leader at the Alex Shattuck's State Farm Insurance Agency,12830 Old U.S. 27, said she loved the convenience of walking over to grab breakfast for herself and fellow coworkers.

Drew May, a member experience associate at Lake Trust Credit Union, 12750 Escanaba Drive, said the restaurant was a community favorite. May found a newfound respect for quality cinnamon French toast when the restaurant was closed; he can't wait to take his family once it reopens.

Contact Sarah Moore at SMoore@lsj.com.

This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: DeWitt's Flap Restaurant is reopening after 2023 closure with new owner