Backlash Against Ohio BBQ Restaurant Following Controversial Comments
A popular BBQ restaurant in Ohio is under fire after comments made by one of its co-owners, Charlie Kirk, a known conservative activist, sparked considerable outrage. Following Kirk’s assassination, a social media post referred to him using derogatory language, igniting a wave of negative reactions.
During a campus event for Aaron Sharp, co-owner of Lucius Q in Cincinnati, Kirk made a poignant comment on a Facebook post that offered prayers for a man’s families. In a now-deleted post, Sharp replied with “Good Redance” and added an insult that has circulated widely online.
In a follow-up post, Sharp defended his earlier statements, expressing frustration over perceived hypocrisy and making it clear that he wouldn’t back down from his views, indicating a deep commitment to his beliefs.
Many of Sharp’s past postings have openly criticized President Donald Trump, who is often seen as an ally to Kirk. The 22-year-old accused of Kirk’s assassination has since been apprehended by law enforcement.
Fox News Digital sought comment from Sharp, but his Facebook account was reportedly deactivated as of Friday morning.
On Thursday, after the backlash intensified, some of Lucius Q’s business partners announced their decision to stop collaborating with the restaurant. Following this, Lucius Q separately confirmed that it had ended its association with Sharp.
Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium, which has hosted FC Cincinnati, also publicly announced they would no longer work with Lucius Q, emphasizing the importance of respect and tolerance in their partnerships.
Alongside its main location in the Pendleton neighborhood, Lucius Q operates within the food hall of Factory 52 in Norwood. The venue described the situation as “very serious,” stating they are exploring all legal options available.
Lucius Q’s longtime meat supplier, Avril Bleh Meat Market, has also cut ties with the restaurant, citing a firm stance against any form of violence.
In a statement, the family-run butcher expressed regret over the situation and clarified their reasons for severing their relationship with Lucius Q.
As backlash continued, Lucius Q announced that Sharp is no longer associated with the business, attributing this change to offensive content found on his personal social media accounts. While some critics feel this response was too late, the restaurant emphasized that they take the issue seriously and are committed to addressing it.
In a further statement, Lucius Q publicly apologized to Kirk’s family, noting that Sharp’s remarks do not reflect the sentiments of the restaurant’s current owners, staff, or investors. The restaurant assured their dedication to the Cincinnati community and hoped to move forward positively.
Despite the restaurant branding Sharp as a “minority owner,” past reports indicated his various roles within the business, including efforts to expand its reach.
Lucius Q was founded in 2018 and gained attention for its inclusion in a Food Network episode featuring celebrity chef Guy Fieri.
As the fallout continues, Lucius Q faces increasing pressure, including negative feedback across various platforms, as the community reacts to Sharp’s comments and the restaurant’s handling of the situation.
