Catalyst Capital partners (from left) Tom Lundstrom, State Rep. Robin Lundstrum (R-Elm Springs), Gracie Lively and Jacob Lively. (Courtesy photo)A 75-year Springdale restaurant that closed earlier this year is set to reopen under new ownership.
Catalyst Capital, an investment company owned by the Lundstrom family, this week announced that they have purchased the rights to AQ Chicken House with plans to build a new restaurant near the Elm Springs Road exit off Interstate 49 sometime in 2025.
AQ Chicken House closed on March 18 at its location on North Thompson Street. The restaurant was later demolished to make room for the construction of a Club Carwash.
Catalyst Capital includes partners Tom Lundstrum, owner of a cleaning company called ChemStation; State Rep. Robin Lundstrum (R-Elm Springs); Gracie Lively, the Lundstrom’s daughter; Jacob Lively, Gracie’s husband.
“I am very much looking forward to working with my family to reimagine AQ and re-open the restaurant for future generations to enjoy,” said Tom Lundstrom. “AQ is a 75-year-old institution that is part of the fabric of Springdale, and we can’t afford to let our history go.”
The new owners said they’re committed to preserving the traditions that made AQ a Springdale icon while also introducing a “fresh concept.”
“We’re hoping that people who visit AQ get a flavor of those traditions along with great food,” said Jacob Lively. “Our desire is that newcomers and locals alike experience the spirit of what has made NWA a special place to live for years and why it will continue to be great in the future.”
