An extensive renovation and a lot of elbow grease is bringing new life to one of Radium’s central business units, in a move that’s hoped to unearth a diamond in the rough.

The Radium Family Restaurant on Main Street is expected to open before April in the building once occupied by Smitty’s.

“It’s brand new now – a completely different building,” said co-owner Chong Yun, better known in Radium as Yuni. “We worked very closely with local contractors and building inspectors.”

Many in Radium know Yuni as the former owner of the Park Inn Motel. She now owns the Radium Family Restaurant along with Riko Simmonds, whose decades of cooking expertise has been crafted solely in the valley.

Riko began working as a dishwasher at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort when he was only 14; a year later he was on the line preparing meals. He then worked for six years at the Windy Cafe before spending over 20 years as the head chef at the Radium Resort.

Confident in the combination of Yuni’s business success and Riko’s plentiful cooking experience, the team is excited to serve wholesome meals to the hungry locals and visitors.

“Everybody thought I was crazy to buy this building, but look at it — I turned it around,” Yuni proudly exclaimed.

When asked why they chose a family-theme for their new restaurant, Riko explained there are fast food and fine-dining restaurants in Radium, but nothing in the middle.

The new restaurant will serve a hearty traditional menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner, while offering a relaxed environment for families. The Radium Family Restaurant will have wi-fi available and can easily accommodate handicapped guests. A conference room will also be available to rent, and can seat about 40 people.

The restaurant will be open seven days a week from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. Weekly specials will include Sunday brunch, pasta nights on Tuesdays and a Chinese buffet on Friday nights.