Sam’s Southern Eatery Launching East-Side Drive-Through in Wichita

Expanding with a New Concept

Sam’s Southern Eatery is preparing to open its third location in Wichita, introducing a fresh approach to its popular Southern-style dining. Emanuel Ashiedu, a software engineer based in Salina, announced that the restaurant will open at 6121 E. 21st St. This building, originally a Long John Silver’s in the 1980s and most recently home to Clouds — a daiquiri lounge that later became a Mediterranean restaurant — will soon serve up Sam’s signature Southern flavors.

First Drive-Through Location

This east-side restaurant will be Sam’s Southern Eatery’s first drive-through location in Wichita. Despite being smaller than the other locations, Ashiedu is eager to experiment with this new service style. The drive-through will offer a limited menu, including popular items like fried catfish, jumbo fried shrimp, and po' boy sandwiches. Customers dining inside will still have access to the full menu found at other Sam’s Southern Eatery locations.

Authentic Southern Cuisine

Founded in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 2008, Sam’s Southern Eatery is known for its authentic Southern-style comfort food. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, including fried green tomatoes, fried pickles, crab cakes, chicken wings, and fried oysters. These flavorful offerings have earned the chain a loyal following.

Steady Growth in Kansas

Ashiedu, along with his brother-in-law Charles Scott, has been steadily expanding the chain’s presence in Kansas. Their first Wichita location opened in early 2024 in the former DeFazio’s space near 29th and Amidon, followed by a second location at 6600 W. Central later that year.

Plans for Further Expansion

The growth doesn’t stop here. Ashiedu plans to open yet another drive-through location on Wichita’s south side, continuing the brand’s expansion and commitment to bringing quality Southern cuisine to more neighborhoods.

The east-side location is expected to open in mid- to late March, offering a convenient drive-through and a full Southern dining experience inside.