AQ Chicken House has been an Arkansas legend for over 75 years, serving up its signature fried chicken and becoming a beloved staple across the state. Though this iconic restaurant closed its doors earlier this year, there is exciting news – AQ Chicken is making a comeback! As a long-time local myself, I couldn’t be more thrilled to see this Arkansas establishment return. In this article, I’ll take a nostalgic walk down memory lane while also giving you all the details on the relaunch of the AQ Chicken House.
A Little History
The original AQ Chicken House first opened its doors in 1947 in Springdale, Arkansas. The “AQ” stands for “Arkansas Quality,” which is certainly an accurate description of their famously delicious fried chicken and southern comfort food. This local eatery quickly became a staple gathering place for families, friends, and the community. It was known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and top-notch customer service.
Over the many decades, AQ Chicken House hosted countless life memories and special occasions for generations of patrons From first dates to family celebrations, the restaurant was the backdrop for it all. In fact, when I was growing up, weekend trips to AQ for chicken dinners were a regular family tradition. The signature crispy and juicy fried chicken was always worth the drive!
Beyond just serving great food AQ Chicken House has an impressive history. According to their website it was even visited by President Bill Clinton back in the day! After 75 wonderful years of serving the Springdale community, the doors finally closed this past March.
Relaunching an Arkansas Legend
Here comes the exciting part! The famous AQ Chicken brand was recently acquired by a local Springdale family – the Lundstrums. Tom and Robin Lundstrum have lived in the area for over 50 years and have fond memories of family celebrations hosted at AQ. They are teaming up with their daughter Gracie and her husband Jacob Lively to bring this Arkansas staple back to life!
The new owners stated they are “driven by a deep appreciation for the restaurant’s legacy” and aim to continue the traditions and community atmosphere. Their goal is to tie the past to the present, keeping the familiar AQ charm while also giving it some modern updates.
While the original building won’t be renovated, the Lundstrums are searching for a new location in the heart of Springdale. They want the new AQ Chicken House to be easily accessible for patrons across NWA. Some signature menu items and décor details will remain the same. For instance, there will still be the beloved toy chest for kids and chicken cooked fresh “over the coals”.
The Reopening Timeline
Originally, the new owners had aimed to relaunch AQ Chicken House in 2025. However, some shifts in plans were recently announced on their website:
“Truth is, we’re behind schedule and won’t reopen in 2025 like we originally hoped. Rising construction and material costs made our previously announced site off Elm Springs Road unfeasible.”
While the timeline is now unclear they reiterated their commitment to bringing AQ back the right way. The mission remains the same – returning this legendary eatery to the heart of Springdale.
The community has shown immense patience and support throughout the ups and downs. As stated by the owners, “The timeline may have shifted, but the mission hasn’t. We’re so grateful for your continued patience, support, and the stories you keep sharing with us.”
Reflecting on the History
As we eagerly await updates on the reopening, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on some of my favorite memories at the original AQ Chicken House. This restaurant was truly a community staple, bringing people together through delicious comfort food and hospitality.
I’ll always remember the signature fried chicken with its perfectly crispy coating and juicy meat. My mouth is watering just thinking about it! Nothing beats true Southern-style chicken, and AQ did it best. I have vivid memories of enjoying big family dinners there filled with fried chicken, mashed potatoes, coleslaw and biscuits.
Beyond just the food, the atmosphere itself was special. I loved checking out all the pictures, memorabilia and knick-knacks decorating the walls. There was such character and charm to the place. And the staff always made you feel right at home.
Looking to the Future
While we must be patient awaiting updates, I’m filled with optimism about the future of AQ Chicken House. This restaurant means so much to the community, and the new owners seem truly passionate about preserving its legacy.
I’m confident they will recreate the signature menu items and welcoming atmosphere us patrons loved so much. Some modernization is expected, and I’m excited to check out the new digs eventually! Most of all, I’m hopeful this relaunch will allow new generations to fall in love with AQ Chicken.
This revival of an Arkansas legend has certainly garnered plenty of buzz and intrigue. I know I’ll be closely following along for any reopening updates! The owners welcome stories and memories from the community on their website, so feel free to share your own AQ experiences.
Here’s to the future – I can’t wait until those crispy fried chicken dinners are back in my life! AQ Chicken House has always been an Arkansas staple, and it warms my heart to see this iconic eatery get revived. I’m ready for the comeback!
it’s all in the family!
Locally owned companies are the lifeblood of a community, representing a rich tapestry of entrepreneurship and innovation. This is something that Tom and Robin Lundstrum know all too well. From a local franchise to rental property, Tom and Robin have been serial entrepreneurs across Northwest Arkansas for over 35 years.
AQ was a brand that our family just couldn’t see leave Northwest Arkansas. So, we came together to bring it back to life and can’t wait for you to join in with us!
Passing on the entrepreneurship gene, Tom and Robin’s daughter, Gracie, and her husband, Jacob, recently moved back to NWA to partner on several new business ventures.
We have called NWA home for over 45 years. We can’t imagine raising our family and starting new businesses anywhere else.
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Tom Lundstrum
Not only have Tom and Robin been in NWA for 45 years, Tom even had his bachelor party at AQ! His favorite AQ dish is chicken over the coals, sweet potato casserole and rolls.
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Robin Lundstrum
Just like Tom, Robin has been in NWA for 45 years! Her favorite AQ dishes is chicken parmesan and of course, she loves the hot rolls!
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Gracie Lively
Gracie grew up in Springdale and just recently moved back with her husband and three kids. Her favorite food is the chicken over the coals!
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Jacob Lively
Growing up in Camden, Jacob remembers family trips to NWA with always stopping at AQ. His favorite dish…you guessed it, chicken over the coals!
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Residents remember AQ Chicken House before it’s doors close after 75 years
FAQ
What is AQ Chicken?
The award-winning AQ Chicken House is famous for southern style cooking and southern hospitality. They are known for their boneless pan-fried chicken, which are tenderloins served with two side items.
Is AQ chicken coming back?
For over 76 years, AQ Chicken served up its signature crispy fried chicken and became a culinary legend. While the doors closed earlier this year, we’re thrilled to say that AQ is making its return.
Will AQ chicken house reopen?
“One of the most important things is there will be a toy chest,” Jacob Lively said. “And chicken over the coals,” Robin Lundstrom added. To stay up to date with the restaurant’s reopening, click here. AQ Chicken House is set to reopen in 2025 under new ownership.