A Dream in the Making
Smitherman has been in and out of the restaurant industry since the age of 17. A native of Alabama, he moved away in 2012 to explore a career in oil and gas. Despite spending 24 years in that field, his passion for the restaurant world never faded. He wasn’t just looking to work in a restaurant; he dreamed of owning one. In 2023, he began the search to find a restaurant to acquire.
Finding the Perfect Fit
After years of searching, nothing sat quite right with Smitherman.
Until he found Buffalo Luke’s.
In February of 2024, Smitherman flew to Georgia to visit the Buffalo Luke’s headquarters. After experiencing the customer service, meeting the leadership, and tasting the food, he knew he had found the perfect fit. And the kicker? There was a franchise for sale in his home state of Alabama.
Buffalo Luke’s
A cross between casual and fast food, Buffalo Luke’s touts its wings, burgers, tenders, and authentic cheesesteak sandwiches. The franchise began in 2014 in Jasper, Georgia, and now has 3 locations in Georgia, 1 in Alabama, and more on the way. But what really sets Buffalo Luke’s apart? According to Smitherman, it’s the customer service and sense of community.
Smitherman has been busy visiting local schools, fire departments, and other organizations, providing fundraising opportunities and delivering tenders.
In addition, there is an empty Community Hero board hanging on the wall in the restaurant waiting to acknowledge Decatur’s heroes. The goal is for patrons to nominate their heroes and for them to receive recognition on the board.
“For me, that’s being in a community,” Smitherman said. “Showing them that they are appreciated.”
