Less than one month after closing the doors at its original location, the iconic Starliner Diner reopened June 3 at 4121 Main St. in Old Hilliard.

Less than one month after closing the doors at its original location, the iconic Starliner Diner reopened June 3 at 4121 Main St. in Old Hilliard.

"I was hoping for the old feel and I think we got it. ... After all, we brought everything with us," owner Molly Mahoney said.

From a reconstructed mural to a collection of clocks, Mahoney's first-day patrons concurred they would miss the old site but they warmly embrace the new one.

"It's great. I love the natural lighting ... and the patio," said David Goldach, 36, of New Albany, who was having lunch with his sister, Jamie Hinesman, 33, of Bexley.

"My brother wanted to be here on the very first day," Hinesman said.

Both siblings noted all the decorations that were relocated from 5240 Cemetery Road, which closed May 8 -- Mother's Day -- after 22 years in business.

Starliner Diner was required to relocate to make way for the construction of Landmark Lofts, a mixed-use development that will feature apartments above ground-floor retail areas.

The former restaurant building already has been leveled.

"I saw the last part of it demolished (and) that was tough to watch," Mahoney said.

A mural of an outer-space walk that was on the outside of building was digitally imaged and reconstructed inside the new restaurant, where it is blended with the other decorations.

New additions include an outdoor seating area.

"They've done a great job, too, giving it a new, fresh look," Goldach said.

Among other first-day diners were Steve and Barbara Bechtel of Upper Arlington.

"We've been going (to Starliner) almost since it opened," Steve Bechtel said.

"We wanted to be here on the first day," Barbara Bechtel said.

The move was a lot of work but nothing that was unexpected, including its opening about one week later than planned to allow more time for all the required inspections and permitting, Mahoney said.

Mahoney said she looks forward to the new business being part of an increasingly vibrant Old Hilliard district.

One of those new features is a series of summer events at the nearby Hilliard's Station Park.

"I'm happy to be here," Mahoney said.