Niki was born on the picturesque island of Zakynthos, Greece. Married at a young age to Ioulios Kefallinos, she built a life with him on a farm in the village of Skoulikados, where they harvested olives and grapes. Their life was not without hardship. In 1953, a devastating earthquake destroyed their home, and just three years later, Niki suffered the loss of her beloved husband. Widowed, she was left to raise their four children on her own.

As her children grew, they sought new opportunities, eventually immigrating to the United States and settling in Detroit. In 1981, Niki visited her family there as her youngest son, Dennis, prepared to open a carry-out pizza restaurant in Detroit’s Greektown. Inspired by her strength and love, Dennis named the restaurant after her: Niki’s Pizza.

With no employees to start, Dennis relied on his mother’s unwavering support. Together, they worked tirelessly, from open to close, seven days a week, bringing his dream to life. Through their dedication and perseverance, Niki’s Pizza became a cherished part of their family legacy.