Lockhart Chicago Style Eatery and Lockhart Popcorn open at Arbor Place Mall, owners promise curated Chicago flavors

Lockhart Chicago Style Eatery has opened a full-service location adjacent to Arbor Place Mall's food court, and a Lockhart popcorn stand operates nearby, business representatives told Commissioner Martin Raxton. "The style is from Chicago…but the popcorn that we make, we make everything fresh every single morning here in Douglasville," said Aaron, who identified himself during the District Dialogue.

Shantaria McKeever, a consultant with Lockhart, described an untraditional grand opening—DJ, champagne toast and a ribbon cutting—and said the operator has multiple Atlanta-area mall locations. She emphasized a short, carefully executed menu and family-friendly environment: "He is very particular and very meticulous about how he wants to operate."

Menu items that have proved popular include a Maxwell Street Polish sausage, Chi Town Smash Burger, Chicago dog and Maxwell Street Italian beef (available dry, dipped or 'baptized'). McKeever said online ordering through third parties will begin around the 28th–29th of the month (date as stated by the guests, not independently confirmed) and that catering is planned within about 30 days, with the business prioritizing a slow rollout to perfect operations.

Both owners said they prioritize hiring locally and promoting small businesses: job ads are posted for both locations and local recommendations are preferred. McKeever invited residents to follow Lockhart on Facebook and Instagram and to visit during mall hours (Monday–Saturday 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Sunday noon–6 p.m.).