New Southern Flavor in Central Kansas: Emanuel Ashiedu Brings Sam’s Southern Eatery to Salina and Hutchinson
Sam’s Southern Eatery, the beloved Louisiana-based restaurant chain, has expanded its footprint in Kansas, bringing its Southern-inspired cuisine to the towns of Salina and Hutchinson. Known for its iconic po’boys, catfish, shrimp platters, and hushpuppies, Sam’s Southern Eatery has become a household name since 2008, with franchises across 12 states, including Kansas, Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas.
Emanuel Ashiedu, a Salina-based software engineer and owner of Salina Code Academy and a foster youth residential emergency shelter with his wife, Wannakei Ashiedu, felt the need to bring something different to Central Kansas. After trying Sam’s signature flavors, Emanuel, inspired by the quality of the food and the unique Louisiana-style recipes, teamed up with his brother-in-law to open two Kansas locations—one in Salina on March 20 and another in Hutchinson under new management in the summer.
“Once I tasted Sam’s food, I was sold,” Ashiedu said, referring to the restaurant’s secret, cornmeal-infused breading and blend of Southern spices, called Sam’s breading. Each day, the fryers are cleaned to ensure a fresh, non-greasy dining experience for customers.
The restaurant quickly developed a loyal customer base, with repeat guests who were drawn in from day one, including locals like Daryl and Kayla Adams, who enjoy Sam’s generous portions and fresh, flavorful dishes. From fried liver and tilapia to family platters and the popular kids’ menu, the restaurant has something for everyone. Meals like hamburgers start at $8, while larger meals, like the 12-piece fish dinner, are available for around $30—a price point that customers say delivers incredible value.
Located at 122 W. Crawford St. in Salina, Sam’s Southern Eatery offers a full menu of Southern classics, including oysters, crab cakes, chicken wings, and fried green tomatoes. Emanuel also kept some features of the original space, including a pizza oven from DeFazio’s, a local Italian restaurant previously housed in the building. This addition allows Sam’s Southern Eatery to serve pizza alongside their beloved Southern specialties, bringing a unique twist to the restaurant’s offerings.
Mahmoud Bayatena, the manager of the Hutchinson location, shared that the turnout has been fantastic and that customers love the restaurant’s consistency. “Customers keep coming back for more,” Bayatena said, proud of the local support and repeat clientele they’ve developed.
With the success of the Salina and Hutchinson locations, Ashiedu is considering opening an additional location within the coming year. “The community here is incredible,” he shared. “They support local businesses and really appreciate the quality and effort we put into our food. We’re excited to continue growing and serving these communities.”
Through hard work, community engagement, and dedication to quality food, Emanuel Ashiedu and his family have brought a taste of Louisiana to Central Kansas—one delicious meal at a time.