Fresh on the Scene

SPLURGE! Welcomes New Businesses and Happenings to Wichita

Written by Karen Long

The Hudson St. Francis

Is it a trendy new event venue? Is it an Airbnb? Is it a community space to showcase Wichita’s artistic and musical talent? All of the above, and more. The Hudson St. Francis is the brainchild of Blake Guthrie, who also owns The Hudson, along with wife Lauren. Although The Hudson, a popular wedding venue, is just one block away, Guthrie says with the new location, “We’re trying to be more than just an event space, which is why we did the Airbnbs. As well, we want to be a staple for downtown without any boxes — not just corporate, not just weddings.”

No boxes, that is, except for the boxcar. Now converted into one of three Airbnbs on premises, it’s splashed with eye-popping art, a piece of Commerce Street history. “That’s the work of local artists over the years, we didn’t touch it.” Guthrie said, “People have just been coming by and tagging it for 15 years.”

The Hudson St. Francis is now booking the venue space for concert pregame parties, showers, corporate events and any gathering of 75 to 100 people. In addition to the bar, event space and Airbnbs, there’s an outdoor patio complete with fire pit and cafe lights, and the rooftop deck offers an “incredible” view of downtown and the arena. Their soft opening in March boasted a local musician, and Guthrie envisions hosting more public events to showcase Wichita culture. “We want to be a space where people can explore their creativity.”

To book a private event at The Hudson St. Francis go to www. thehudsonict.com/stfrancis. The three Airbnbs are listed at Airbnb.com. For upcoming public events follow their socials: @TheHudsonStFrancis on Facebook and Instagram.

Sushiya

When you want to get your hamachi on, there’s a new place in town. “A delicious sushi place in the center is something that Wichitians want,” says Andy Hubbard, general manager at Sushiya in Old Town Square. The new restaurant continues the 27-year tradition established by Hana Cafe, which was purchased by the owners of Wasabi East.

While the new owners have completely rebranded and remodeled, Hana regulars will be happy to see they’re also continuing the beloved mango salmon roll (a sweeter special roll) and the bibimbap, a Korean dish that comes with your choice of protein, plus veggies, rice and gochujang sauce. And Wasabi East fans will enjoy favorites from that restaurant, including the popular deep fried Crazy Stonehenge roll. The large menu also features everything from edamame and poke salad to yakisoba and noodle bowls. There are several pages of sushi rolls — baked, deep fried, and “on fire” — not to mention sushi burritos.

Sushiya patrons will be greeted by a more open and airy space with exposed ceilings and hanging lamps in a modern and clean ambiance, according to Hubbard. “We also have seating at the bar and sushi area, so guests can have a good conversation with the bartender or watch our extremely talented sushi chefs work their magic,” he says. Sushiya offers signature drinks such as the Red Lotus and Dragon Mist, in addition to beer, wine, sake and cocktails. Watch throughout the week for various drink specials. “We only see positive developments in the future of Old Town,” says Hubbard, “and are excited to grow with it.”

For more information, go to sushiyawichita.com or find them on Facebook and Instagram: @sushiyawichita.