In 1956 John first experienced a totally new process of preparing and cooking chicken. The second he tasted it, he knew he could make something with this new technology. On June 6, 1956, after only 41 days of construction, John and Iola opened their first Chicken Shack in Royal Oak, Michigan. Their customers liked the food so much that the Sobeck’s couldn’t keep up with the demand and had to purchase more equipment to handle their expanding business!

Over the years John experimented with and developed many secret recipes, marinades and sauces that have been passed down through the generations. From his award-winning baby back ribs to his hand cut “Shack Potatoes” and homemade cole slaw, John created many new, unique Chicken Shack items that are fan favorites. 

Today, there are four generations of Sobeck’s working to keep Chicken Shack the best tasting food in America and to carry out John and Iola’s legacy of great customer service.