Flat Creek opening in Republic draws over 2,000 patrons

Flat Creek Restaurant’s new Republic location drew 2,000 customers when it opened on Tuesday, Feb. 5. Two weeks later, the restaurant, which serves chicken, catfish, seafood and steaks, among several other items, is still a highly popular destination for those who want to eat out.
“We haven’t slowed down yet,” said Mike Martin, general manager. “(We’re serving) over a couple of thousand per day. We’ve gotten busier every day. Some days, we’ve had a line at the door before we’ve opened. Most days, there’s a wait (for seating) throughout the day.”
Martin said the restaurant’s popularity comes from “home cooking, great food and unbelievable customer service,” adding that the most popular items served so far are fried catfish and roasted chicken. In fact, a posting on Flat Creek, Republic’s Facebook page stated the restaurant served 3,112 pounds of catfish during its first week in business.
“Our guests have turned out in droves and have been eating the traditional dinners we expected them to,” Martin said.
The restaurant currently employs a staff of about 100 people, and Martin said they would be looking to add more.
“We can’t seem to get enough help,” he said. “It’s (had) a big impact on the community. It’s been amazing how many people have been showing up. Right now, we’re just trying to keep up our excellent level of food andcustomer service.”
Martin also said customers have come even during the temperature drop.
“Not even the weather has slowed people down,” he said. “They want that catfish.”