Amy Ruth's expands with new location in downtown New York City
- The new Amy Ruth's location opened on November 12, 2024, in downtown Manhattan.
- The restaurant is self-financed by David and Mitchell Mekles, who aim to provide high-quality soul food at affordable prices.
- If the new location succeeds, the brothers plan to consider franchising rather than opening a third restaurant.
In November 2024, David Mekles and his brother Mitchell opened a second location of their soul food restaurant, Amy Ruth's, on West 14th Street in Manhattan, New York City. This expansion comes after the original Amy Ruth's, founded by Carl Redding in 1998 in Harlem, achieved popularity due to its signature dish of chicken and waffles, along with other soul food offerings. The Mekles brothers aimed for an affordable yet high-quality quick service restaurant, with their decision influenced by post-Covid dining trends favoring takeout and delivery. They have self-financed the new location and are testing its viability, with plans to consider franchising if successful. In contrast to their Harlem restaurant, which serves 150 diners with full waiter service, they anticipate a focus on takeout at the new downtown location, catering to the demands of a busy urban clientele. David Mekles emphasized the importance of quality food, customer service, and value as keys to the success of both establishments. As they operate their downtown location as a test run, they are cautious about potential competition with the Harlem restaurant. The Mekles brothers have observed diverse patronage in Harlem and hope to replicate that success in the more bustling downtown area, which they believe will not interfere with their original business.