In a quiet corner of Strasburg, Ohio, an 18-year-old has done what many would consider unimaginable at her age—purchased a diner. Samantha Frye, a recent high school graduate, is now the proud owner of Rosalie’s Restaurant, a local eatery with a rich history and a cherished place in the community.
A Humble Start With Big Dreams
Samantha’s journey began when she was just 14, starting her first job. By 16, she was juggling multiple roles, one of which was washing dishes at Rosalie’s. Over time, she worked her way up, learning the ropes of the restaurant industry. Her hard work and dedication led her to take the bold step of purchasing the diner, using her savings from various food-service jobs and securing financing from the previous owners, Bob and Stephanie Roth.
“I started working when I was 14, and then when I was 16, I got two jobs, one of them being here,” Samantha recalls. Her mother, Brandi Beitzel, expressed both astonishment and pride, saying, “Sam just has me in awe! I think back to when I was her age, and there’s no way I would have had the knowledge or courage to take on such a responsibility.”
A Community Space
Rosalie’s is more than just a place to eat—it’s a cornerstone of the community. Regular customers like Don Gerber of Strasburg admire Samantha’s determination. “She’s a great young lady. She’s got everything in order and knows what she wants,” Gerber says, reflecting the sentiments of many who frequent the diner.
For decades, Rosalie’s has been a gathering place where generations have shared meals and stories and even found love. One such story is that of Ed and Doris Weaver, who met at the diner in 1967 when it was known as Cindy’s. They’ve been married for 55 years and continue to visit regularly, cherishing the memories made at their favorite corner booth.
Keeping Traditions Alive
Samantha has no plans to change the diner’s name or the warm atmosphere that makes Rosalie’s special. She hopes to honor the legacy while also bringing in new ideas, like starting a composting initiative to reduce food waste, reflecting her concern for the environment.
Bob and Stephanie Roth, who previously owned the diner, are not far away, living in the house behind Rosalie’s. They continue to support Samantha, guiding her through the intricacies of running a business that’s as much about community as it is about food.
“We’re there to support her and help her any way she can to make this a success,” says Stephanie. Their mentoring ensures that the spirit of Rosalie’s endures, even as a new generation takes the helm.
Resources:
Rosalie’s Restaurant on Facebook
Table Needs: 8 tips for your first year as a restaurant owner
GloriaFood: 10 Restaurant Sustainability Practices You Can Implement Immediately
References:
USA TODAY: From dishwasher to owner: 18-year-old who used savings to buy restaurant has mom ‘in awe’
People: 18-Year-Old Uses College Funds to Buy Restaurant Where She Started Out as Dishwasher
News 5 Cleveland: From dishwasher to owner — 18-year-old uses college savings to buy Strasburg restaurant she worked at