From Behind the Bar to Behind the Line: Welcome to the Magic Kitchen
Little Magic has officially expanded with the launch of The Magic Kitchen. Co-owner Sam Pennington shared in a WJHL interview that they’ve taken over the former Voodoo Chicken space and are now serving up a brand-new menu centered around gluten-free, southern-style comfort food inspired by her own family recipes.
Currently offering late afternoon and evening service, The Magic Kitchen will roll out Sunday brunch by the end of May 2025, with weekday lunch soon to follow.
“We’re still focusing on gluten-free 99% of the menu, because I have celiac and it’s very important to me,” Sam also said in the WJHL interview. “We’re doing wings, tenders, tons of fresh salads, and moving toward a farm-to-table experience with heavier service levels. We’re just excited to expand and give more magic to the whole place.”
They strategically launched at the beginning of May, which is also Celiac Awareness Month. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects 1 in 133 people and requires a lifelong, strict gluten-free diet. Even trace amounts of gluten like shared utensils, pans, or cutting boards can cause serious reactions.
That’s why Sam set out to create the area’s first 100% celiac-friendly kitchen, eliminating all risk of cross-contamination and removing the stress many face when dining out with dietary restrictions, especially after a night out.
But The Magic Kitchen is just one piece of the magic.
Over the past year, Little Magic has become one of downtown Johnson City’s most beloved weekend spots. From karaoke nearly every night to drag shows, trivia, and comedy nights–it’s the kind of place where everyone feels like a regular. The best part about it, Sam knows your name.
Sam and co-owner Dave have created a space that blurs the line between customer and community. It’s common to see staff jump on stage for a karaoke number, or catch Sam passing out free Jello shots during a busy night. There’s an energy here that’s hard to describe but easy to feel the moment you walk in.
That spirit was on full display during ETSU’s 2025 graduation weekend, when Little Magic hit yet another major milestone with record-breaking sales. Over 1,000 Jello shots were sold, the bar hit full capacity, and you could see a huge line outside the door all night long.
At the heart of it all is Sam and Dave, who took a leap of faith when the bar was on the verge of closing.
“I never really wanted a bar,” Sam said in a recent Johnson City Press interview. “I wanted a small café. But I was managing the bar, and when we almost lost it, I couldn’t see the doors close. So Dave and I did everything we could to buy it… and we did.”
That decision changed everything. Even during tough moments when they temporarily lost their liquor license, the community showed up.
“Beer-only? BYOB? No problem,” Sam laughed. “We could still pack the place.”
Another reason for Little Magic’s success? It’s employee built and run. Everyone with a title has earned it through years of experience.
Little Magic has cultivated a space where community, creativity, and genuine care come first. Their journey proves just how powerful it is when entrepreneurs are deeply rooted in the industry they’re building in. This bar isn’t just about drinks or food. It’s about people, community, and creating a memorable experience.
Find out more about Little Magic and the Magic Kitchen here.
