Samone’s Express Wing’s & Grill, founded by Samuel Brown, opened its doors for the first time on Friday at 118 Washington Street.

Its debut attracted many visitors who were interested in tasting what Brown and his restaurant served.

Brown was happy to garner a large crowd of customers, and deemed the opening successful.

“We haven’t even got to the breakfast yet, and it’s been absolutely fabulous,” Brown said. “A lot of people are coming in and we have been busy all day, from the time we opened.”

He has ample restaurant experience and has previously owned a restaurant on Citizens Parkway.

“I’ve always been interested in food and the food industry,” Brown said. “It’s all I’ve ever done. I was the manager of Hardees, Burger King, McDonald’s and IHOP. After managing IHOP, what I decided to do was make a restaurant myself and name it after my daughter.”

Brown was inspired to leave a legacy for the next generation.

“The next generation is what inspired me to create this restaurant,” Brown said. “I see people like Bill Gates and Sam Walton, and I figured, if Kentucky Fried Chicken can do it, why can’t I start something and pass it down to the next generation? So when my kids or grandkids see my picture on the wall one day, they are going to say ‘that’s how we got started.’

Farrah Cureton, Brown’s niece and a volunteer of the restaurant, said Brown is dedicated and cares for his employees and customers.

“I feel the customers are satisfied and he is living up to his slogan, ‘First! Fast! Best!,’” Cureton said.

Brown encourages people to visit his restaurant and dine the food he created with hard work and experience.

“We have good food and a great atmosphere, I really encourage people to visit,” Brown said.

Samone’s Express Wings & Grill is open Monday-Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.- 6 pm. On Thurs.-Sat. breakfast is served at 6 am.