St. Matthews, October 11, 2025
Shawarma Shack, a new Middle Eastern restaurant, is scheduled to open in St. Matthews next month, enhancing the local dining scene with authentic dishes. Founded by entrepreneur Ahmed Khalil, the 2,500-square-foot establishment will create 15 jobs and is projected to attract 200 daily customers, contributing significantly to the local economy and supporting regional suppliers.
St. Matthews Welcomes New Middle Eastern Restaurant
St. Matthews is set to gain a fresh dining option with the upcoming opening of Shawarma Shack, a Middle Eastern restaurant slated to debut next month at a prime spot on Shelbyville Road. This addition promises to enrich the area’s culinary landscape by introducing authentic flavors while boosting the local economy through job creation and support for regional suppliers.
The 2,500-square-foot establishment, founded by local entrepreneur Ahmed Khalil, will specialize in traditional dishes such as shawarma, falafel, and hummus. These offerings aim to attract a diverse customer base in the bustling commercial district. Projections indicate the restaurant could draw as many as 200 daily customers, potentially generating $1.2 million in annual revenue. Such estimates highlight the venture’s potential to become a significant contributor to the neighborhood’s vibrancy.
Economic Impact and Employment Opportunities
Beyond its menu, Shawarma Shack is expected to play a key role in local employment. The restaurant plans to hire 15 staff members, providing opportunities for residents in St. Matthews and surrounding areas. This hiring initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen the workforce in Kentucky’s service sector.
The eatery will source its ingredients from regional suppliers, directly supporting Kentucky’s agricultural economy. This approach not only ensures the authenticity of the dishes but also fosters partnerships with local farmers and producers, helping to sustain the state’s rural communities. By keeping supply chains close to home, the business reinforces economic ties within the region.
Diversifying Dining and Boosting Local Commerce
City officials have expressed support for the project, noting its value in diversifying dining options for the community. The arrival of Shawarma Shack is anticipated to increase foot traffic in the Shelbyville Road area, benefiting nearby retail zones. This influx of visitors could lead to heightened activity for shops, services, and other establishments, creating a ripple effect of economic growth.
The location on Shelbyville Road positions the restaurant in one of St. Matthews’ most active corridors, where high visibility and accessibility are key to success. This strategic placement enhances the eatery’s potential to integrate seamlessly into the daily routines of locals and travelers alike.
Background on the Founder and Vision
Ahmed Khalil, a local entrepreneur with roots in the area, brings a vision centered on authentic Middle Eastern cuisine tailored to the tastes of St. Matthews residents. His decision to open Shawarma Shack stems from a desire to fill a gap in the local market for genuine, flavorful options that reflect cultural diversity. Khalil’s focus on quality ingredients and community involvement underscores the restaurant’s commitment to becoming a staple in the neighborhood.
Context of Growth in St. Matthews
St. Matthews, a vibrant suburb of Louisville, has seen steady development in its commercial sectors over recent years. The addition of eateries like Shawarma Shack fits into this trend, where new businesses are enhancing the area’s appeal as a destination for dining and shopping. With its proximity to major thoroughfares and residential hubs, the city continues to attract entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on growing consumer demand.
This development comes at a time when Kentucky is emphasizing local business growth to bolster economic resilience. Initiatives supporting small enterprises, such as this one, contribute to a broader narrative of community-driven progress. As Shawarma Shack prepares for its launch, it stands as an example of how targeted investments in hospitality can yield multifaceted benefits for both businesses and the public.
The opening next month marks an exciting chapter for Shelbyville Road, promising not just new flavors but also sustained economic momentum for St. Matthews.
FAQ
What is Shawarma Shack?
Shawarma Shack is a new Middle Eastern restaurant opening next month in St. Matthews.
Where will Shawarma Shack be located?
It will be located in the Shelbyville Road area.
Who founded Shawarma Shack?
The eatery was founded by local entrepreneur Ahmed Khalil.
What dishes will Shawarma Shack offer?
The restaurant will offer authentic shawarma, falafel, and hummus.
How will Shawarma Shack source its ingredients?
It will source ingredients from regional suppliers to support Kentucky’s agricultural economy.
How many daily customers is Shawarma Shack expected to have?
The restaurant is expected to have 200 daily customers.
What is the size of the Shawarma Shack space?
The space is 2,500-square-foot.
What annual revenue is projected for Shawarma Shack?
It is projected to generate $1.2 million in annual revenue.
How many staff members will Shawarma Shack hire?
The restaurant plans to hire 15 staff members.
How will Shawarma Shack impact the local area?
City officials praise the addition for diversifying dining options and stimulating foot traffic in nearby retail zones.
Key Features of Shawarma Shack
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cuisine Type | Middle Eastern (shawarma, falafel, hummus) |
| Location | Shelbyville Road area, St. Matthews |
| Opening Timeline | Next month |
| Space Size | 2,500-square-foot |
| Expected Daily Customers | 200 |
| Projected Annual Revenue | $1.2 million |
| Staff Hires | 15 members |
| Ingredient Sourcing | From regional suppliers to support Kentucky’s agricultural economy |
| Local Impact | Diversifying dining options and stimulating foot traffic in nearby retail zones |
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