Sam Miller's: A Welcoming Haven for All in Richmond's Historic Shockoe Slip

Sam Miller’s, a Richmond treasure in historic Shockoe Slip, has been a beloved dining destination for over 52 years, celebrated for its fresh seafood, traditional dishes, and welcoming atmosphere. Under the leadership of Ken Wall, a queer minority owner with over five decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Sam Miller's continues to thrive while fostering an inclusive environment for both staff and guests.

A Legacy of Hospitality and Inclusivity

For Ken Wall, owning and operating Sam Miller’s is more than just running a restaurant—it’s about creating a space where everyone feels respected and valued. “I have been in hospitality for 54 years and have been learning along the way,” Wall says. “It is very important to me that every guest that walks into Sam Miller’s knows they are going to be treated with the utmost respect, and we will not tolerate any form of disrespect.”

This commitment to inclusivity begins the moment guests arrive. With welcoming window stickers at the front door signaling that all are embraced, Sam Miller’s makes it clear that this is a safe space for everyone, including the LGBTQ community. Wall himself proudly shares his story as a married queer man, setting a personal example of openness and acceptance that permeates the entire establishment.

Creating an Inclusive Work Environment

Wall’s dedication to inclusivity isn’t just for guests—it’s also a cornerstone of how he manages his team. “This starts at the interview process,” Wall explains. “We let potential employees know that we are open to all walks of life, and if they have a problem with that, they will not want to work here.” This upfront approach ensures that everyone at Sam Miller’s is aligned with the restaurant’s values of respect, kindness, and acceptance.

Balancing Tradition with Fresh Ideas

Sam Miller’s reputation as one of Richmond’s best restaurants has been built on its commitment to quality and tradition. Known for its fresh seafood dishes, the restaurant has long been a staple in the local dining scene. However, Wall and his team are not afraid to innovate. “We embrace what has made Sam Miller’s a staple restaurant for 52 years with our great fresh seafood dishes,” says Wall. “But we also try to make some new dishes that follow that mold. We kind of walk a fine line with bringing new ideas to the menu.”

This careful balance allows Sam Miller’s to remain a classic destination while continuously offering fresh, exciting options that reflect the evolving tastes of its diverse clientele. Wall’s vision for the future is clear: “To be known as a great traditional restaurant with some fresh ideas and working even more with the LGBTQ community.”

Chicken and Waffle With a Thai Chili Sauce Maple Syrup

Supporting Richmond’s Growing LGBTQ Business Community

Richmond is home to a growing number of LGBTQ-owned small businesses, and Sam Miller’s is proud to be part of the local gay community. “We have more LGBTQ-owned small businesses than ever in Richmond, and it continues to grow,” Wall notes. By supporting and collaborating with other LGBTQ entrepreneurs, Wall hopes to further strengthen the network of inclusive spaces that make Richmond such a special place.

Go Out, Stay Out, Live Out at Sam Miller’s

Sam Miller’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a welcoming haven where tradition meets inclusivity. Whether you’re stopping by for one of their famous seafood dishes or simply looking for a place where you can be yourself, Sam Miller’s invites you to go out, stay out, and live out in the heart of Richmond.

For more information on Sam Miller’s, including their menu and private event space offerings, visit www.sammillers.com.