Sportlite Grill, a restaurant in the University Pavilion at the University of Michigan-Flint, will transition to new ownership on May 1, with new owner Elena Hernandez announcing the business will be renamed Hail Yes Grill while continuing many of the longtime menu items and operations established over the last two decades.
The ownership change follows the retirement of longtime operator Naso Douros, who managed the restaurant for more than 20 years in the University Pavilion dining area.
“Naso Douros, the current owner of Sportlite Grill, has been a UM-Flint staple for the last twenty-plus years. I am honored that he has entrusted me to carry on his legacy.” Hernandez said.
Hernandez said she decided to continue the business after learning of his plans to step away. “The uncertainty of the future of the vendors being allowed to stay at the Pavilion weighs heavy on me daily.” She said the restaurant serves students, faculty, staff, and downtown visitors who rely on it as a dining option.
“The name will change to Hail Yes Grill starting on May first 2026,” Hernandez said. “However, I don’t plan on changing too much.”
Hernandez said the restaurant will keep most current menu offerings while introducing new items, including breakfast burritos, homemade bread and rotating specials.
Pizza by the slice, including breakfast pizza, is expected to launch in fall 2026. Additional specials may include chicken fettuccine alfredo, pot roast and Asian-inspired dishes. Hernandez plans to enforce call-ahead ordering and DoorDash service to improve convenience for customers on lunch breaks.
Amanda Bigelow, cashier at Sportlite Grill, said she had worked at the restaurant for about 20 years and had a positive experience.
“The old owner, he’s like a dad to me,” Bigelow said. “And the new owner, I hope she does really well and finds joy in it as I did.”
Douros, the previous owner of Sportlite Grill, said he valued the relationships formed while working in the building and has high hopes for the future of the restaurant.
“I’ve loved working here. It’s been an honor to serve the people of Flint,” Douros said. “I can’t wait to see what Hernandez does, and I’m glad to see her continue the legacy.”
Hernandez said that she plans to stay in the University Pavilion as long as she can, “I will stay in the Pavilion as long as the University will continue to host me.” Hernandez also said she plans to expand outreach efforts, “I will continue working with other downtown agencies to host events and offer drop-off catering.”
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