Sam’s Southern Eatery Reopens on West Central with New Vision and Leadership

 Sam’s Southern Eatery is making a bold return to Wichita’s west side at 6600 W. Central, promising a fresh take on its beloved southern comfort food. The restaurant, first opened in January 2020, faced an untimely closure just months later in December due to the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. This time, with a new franchisee at the helm and a strategic approach to revitalize the brand, Sam’s is poised to thrive.

Franchisee Emanuel Ashiedu, alongside his brother-in-law and business partner Charles Scott, is leading the charge to bring this iconic southern eatery back to the community. The duo has already made their mark in Kansas, successfully operating Sam’s locations in Hutchinson, Salina, and a newer Wichita location at 2706 N. Amidon. Now, they’re ready to breathe new life into the West Central spot, reimagining the restaurant in a way that sets it up for long-term success.

A New Chapter in a Familiar Building

The new Sam’s Southern Eatery will occupy a smaller, more intimate space within the same building that housed its predecessor. Previously located on the west side of the structure, which is now home to Casa Mexicana, the eatery will move to the east side—an area that once served as Green Olive’s home.

This move is strategic. The east-side section offers a cozy dining area with space for 30 to 40 guests inside and an inviting patio outside for those who enjoy dining al fresco. Ashiedu sees this as an opportunity to create a more tailored and comfortable experience for patrons, emphasizing quality over quantity.

“We’re excited to bring Sam’s back to this location,” said Ashiedu. “This time, we’ve made adjustments to ensure the restaurant can meet the needs of the community and create a space people will love.”

The new menu will be slightly streamlined compared to their Amidon location but will still feature fan favorites like fried catfish, shrimp, Po’ Boys, fried green tomatoes, and other southern staples.

Reviving a Storied Location

The building at 6600 W. Central has long been a hotspot for local eateries. Its west-side section has hosted various businesses, including the popular Marco’s Cantina and its successor, Casa Mexicana. Meanwhile, the east-side portion has a history of its own, most recently serving as Green Olive.

Earlier this year, building owner Sam Eddine had plans to transform the east-side space into Mama Deaux Southern Kitchen, a concept restaurant he hoped would bring authentic southern flavors to the area. However, difficulties in finding the right staff led him to abandon the idea. Instead, Eddine decided to lease the space, paving the way for Ashiedu and Scott to reintroduce Sam’s Southern Eatery to the community.

This collaboration brings together Ashiedu’s expertise in managing successful franchises and Eddine’s local influence, creating a strong foundation for the restaurant’s second chance.

Building on Success

Ashiedu and Scott are no strangers to growth. After opening their first Wichita location at 2706 N. Amidon earlier this year, they’ve quickly established themselves as key players in the local dining scene. The Amidon location, situated in the former DeFazio’s building, has received positive feedback from diners and serves as a blueprint for their West Central expansion.

Their ability to adapt and find new opportunities is evident in their plans for the future. In addition to reopening at 6600 W. Central, the duo has set their sights on opening another location on Wichita’s east side.

“When we find the right building, we’ll definitely be out there,” said Ashiedu, emphasizing their commitment to expanding Sam’s presence in the city.

A Legacy of Southern Comfort

Sam’s Southern Eatery was founded in 2008 in Shreveport, Louisiana, and has since grown into a nationwide chain with more than 50 locations. Known for its generous portions, affordable prices, and authentic southern flavors, the restaurant has become a go-to destination for those craving comfort food staples.

The menu features a wide range of options, from crab cakes and fried oysters to chicken wings, fish platters, and fried pickles. It’s a place where diners can enjoy the hearty, soulful flavors of the South in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.

Ashiedu and Scott aim to uphold this legacy while tailoring their offerings to the Wichita market. By focusing on quality food, excellent service, and thoughtful expansion, they hope to make Sam’s Southern Eatery a household name across the city.

Setting the Stage for Success

The reopening of Sam’s Southern Eatery at 6600 W. Central is more than just a comeback; it’s a chance to right past challenges and establish a lasting presence in Wichita. By choosing a smaller, more manageable space and refining the menu, Ashiedu is addressing the factors that contributed to the previous location’s struggles.

The addition of a patio dining option further enhances the experience, offering guests a unique way to enjoy their meals. With its cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and Ashiedu’s proven leadership, the new Sam’s is set to become a favorite spot for southern cuisine enthusiasts.

Looking Ahead

As Sam’s Southern Eatery reopens on West Central, the future looks bright. Ashiedu and Scott’s vision for growth and commitment to quality have already laid a strong foundation for success. With plans to expand to the city’s east side and beyond, the duo is on a mission to make Sam’s a staple in Wichita’s dining scene.

For now, the return of Sam’s Southern Eatery is a welcome development for fans of southern cooking. It’s a story of perseverance, adaptation, and the enduring appeal of comfort food done right.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Sam’s Southern Eatery invites you to experience the best of southern hospitality and flavor