Rogers-Lowell Area News

Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar to Open in Rogers

Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar, a leading full-service family sports bar that provides gourmet takes on game day favorites, will soon be Rogers’ go-to community restaurant by early 2020. The brand has gained a loyal following for employing the go-getter spirit of a walk-on athlete while providing superior service and mouthwatering All-American menu items with a taste of Louisiana. Before its doors officially open, the brand will be holding a groundbreaking celebration on Thursday, October 3, at 5040 S. JB Hunt Dr., for the 7,500-square-foot restaurant slated to open early 2020. Attendees will be served samples of their popular Crawfish Etouffee, Duck and Andouille Gumbo & Krispy Kreme Donut Bread Pudding.

The new restaurant will kick off its groundbreaking event at 11:30 a.m. CST with opening remarks from Walk-On’s Founder, Brandon Landry. A brief ceremony will follow, giving community members the opportunity to hear from the franchise owners, Jodie and Chris McJunkins.

While Chris and Jodie are natives of Shreveport, Louisiana, they share a passion for all things Arkansas, family, giving back, and great food. Jodie was a Chi Omega at the University of Arkansas and Jodie’s dad, George Kalmbach, graduated in 1966 and was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity. Jodie and Chris’s son, Alex, is an SAE and a sophomore at the Sam Walton College of Business at the U of A. Chris and Jodie have been in the restaurant business for 30 years and own Walk-On’s Shreveport, Bossier City and West Monroe, Louisiana and Cantina Laredo and Windrush Grill in Shreveport.

“Arkansas has always held a special place in our hearts so we are beyond ecstatic to be returning to a place we’ve always considered a second home,” Jodie said. “We look forward to being part of the community with our family, while serving those around us and having fun along the way.”

Community members are invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony and a free, open to the public reception where both complimentary food and refreshments will be available. All attendees are invited to an exclusive tasting experience to try some of Walk-On’s most famous and mouthwatering menu items such as Crawfish Etouffee, Duck and Andouille Gumbo & Krispy Kreme Donut Bread Pudding.

“We’re extremely excited to bring everyone in the Rogers area a Walk-On’s to call their own,” said Landry. “Our Walk-On’s team could not be more pleased to watch the McJunkins’ grow with our family and know that they are true, passionate, food-oriented franchisees who will bring nothing but success to this new territory we’re expanding in. I look forward to witnessing how the community reacts to our arrival and hope that each and everyone enjoys themselves and our food as soon as we open.”

Whether it be for date night, a drink, girl’s night out or a family dinner, Walk-On’s is the place for everyone – because everyone needs a little playing time. Every dish is made from scratch using fresh ingredients to bring its savory cuisine to life. Walk-On’s diverse menu has offerings ranging from unique twists on game day staples to upscale takes on Louisiana mainstays pleasing all palates. Its game day atmosphere paired with a true southern hospitality makes it a perfect dining destination for everyone. As stated by co-owner and NFL superstar Drew Brees, Walk-On’s is “a great place to bring my family, teammates and business colleagues,” and we’re excited to help “expand the brand across the nation.” Today, with 31 open locations and over 160 locations in development across 15 states, the brand is on track for strategic franchise expansion nationwide.

Once open, the Rogers restaurant will employ up to 200 people who will join the Walk-On’s All-American team. For those interested in employment opportunities, please visit www.walkons.com/careers.  

For more information on Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar and its franchise opportunity, visit www.walkons.com.