Michael’s Restaurant Looks to Rebuild After Devastating Fire on Pine Avenue

A longtime staple of Niagara Falls' Little Italy on Pine Avenue is reeling after a weekend fire left Michael’s Restaurant with significant damage and uncertainty about its future.

For over three decades, Michael Capizzi followed a familiar routine each night, securing the restaurant his family operated since 1966.

But on Saturday night, that routine was upended when a fire broke out just an hour after he closed the doors.

When Capizzi arrived back at the restaurant, flames and smoke filled the sky and firefighters from the Niagara Falls Fire Department were working urgently to contain the blaze.

The fire, which officials believe began in the kitchen at the back of the building, prompted a full-scale response.

Crews entered through two rear entrances to battle the flames inside the structure.

Thankfully, the fire was brought under control before it could completely destroy the property.

Capizzi, watching helplessly as the fire unfolded, later visited the fire stations involved to personally thank the responders.

Many of the firefighters who fought to save the building had personal ties to the business. Some were former employees, others long-time patrons.

Two responders were treated for heat-related exhaustion but returned to duty shortly afterward.

The aftermath of the fire left the Capizzi family and staff in a state of disbelief.

Damage is estimated at $150,000, and while the cause is still under investigation, the impact is already deeply felt.

Capizzi always cherished his team and the local community. After all, the restaurant has been a fixture in the neighborhood for nearly 60 years.

With the building now damaged and operations paused indefinitely, the future remains uncertain, though Capizzi has said giving up is not an option.

Discussions among family members are ongoing, but the commitment to recovery is reportedly strong.

Community support has poured in, including from neighboring business La Hacienda Restaurant.

The Satarian family, whose establishment sits right next door, expressed their concern and solidarity, offering any help needed during this difficult time.

“It’s a sad day for Pine Avenue and our local restaurant community. We are still shocked and in disbelief at the fire that took place right next door to us at Michael’s. Our thoughts and prayers go out to our neighbors of many years, the Capizzi family and staff. If anything is needed we are here for you guys. Somehow we were lucky enough to not sustain any damage to our building and will be able to OPEN for business as usual. Please keep the Michael’s family and staff in your prayers as they navigate through this horrible situation. We’d also like to acknowledge the NFFD and other first responders for their quick response and swift action to contain the fire. Thank You.”

With overwhelming support from the community, Capizzi is focused on moving forward.

Michael’s Restaurant Looks to Rebuild After Devastating Fire on Pine Avenue