For nearly 40 years, a spot on Highland Road was home to Sammy's Grill. When Sammy's closed in June, plenty of regulars wondered what would come next. Now we know.

The team behind Willie's Restaurant on Coursey Boulevard has taken over the space and is opening a new restaurant called The Historic. A soft opening kicked off Thursday night at 5 p.m., giving curious diners their first look.

Why the name fits

It's hard to replace a restaurant that stuck around for four decades, and the new name doesn't try to pretend that history isn't there. For longtime Highland Road diners, a new restaurant in an old spot is less about starting over and more about keeping the lights on at a place people already have memories of.

Who's behind it

If you've been to Willie's, you know what this crew does. Their Coursey spot is known for Louisiana comfort food, and its weekend brunch has become a regular stop. Think Sin-A-Bites, fried bread pudding tossed in cinnamon sugar, plus Leftover Hash and chicken and waffles. That's no promise of what The Historic will serve, but it shows the team knows how to keep a dining room full.

What we don't know yet

The menu, regular hours and grand opening date for The Historic haven't been widely announced. Soft openings are when kitchens work out the kinks, so expect some changes as the team settles in. Follow the restaurant's channels for updates before you head over.

Go see for yourself

There's something good about a neighborhood restaurant space staying a neighborhood restaurant. Stop by, say hello and give the new crew a shot. Highland Road gets a new chapter.