Sonic Drive-In is making its long-awaited return to northeast Indiana, with plans for a new location set to open soon. According to Auburn development leaders, the fast food chain has filed plans to construct the restaurant at 1520 Shook Drive, conveniently located near popular sites such as Home Depot and Cracker Barrel. This development is particularly significant, as the establishment previously closed its Auburn location, with the last restaurant sitting at 402 Smaltz Way, now occupied by Salsa Grille.
The new Sonic restaurant will span approximately 1,320 square feet, showcasing the fast-food chain's signature offerings, including its famous coney dogs, hot dogs, burgers, and various flavored drinks. While specific details on the grand opening date remain under wraps, the Auburn Plan Commission has scheduled a public hearing on the proposed development for January 14, 2025, at 6 p.m. at Auburn City Hall. Sonic cast its culinary net wide, with 25 locations throughout Indiana and 37 existing establishments in Ohio.
On the horizon, the Comfort Festival is migrating to the historic Villa Casati Stampa in Cinisello Balsamo, Milan, for its fourth edition this July. The festival, produced by Barley Arts, will run from July 4 to 5, July 9 to 10, and July 13, following three successful years held at Ferrara. The villa, steeped in history dating back to the seventeenth century, sets the stage for what promises to be larger and more vibrant festivities.
Claudio Trotta, founder of Barley Arts, expressed enthusiasm about the transition, stating, "The years from 2021 to 2024 have seen three wonderful editions of the Comfort Festival, as well as the passionate and memorable concert by Bruce Springsteen [in Monza in 2023]. The bond is solid, sincere and concrete..." This year’s edition will boast performances from notable acts including Warren Haynes Band, Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals, and Wolfmother, with more names to be announced leading up to the event. Ticket prices range between €35-€65, available exclusively through TicketOne.
On the West Coast, Horn Barbecue is advancing its presence, recently opening operations in Lafayette and gearing up for another opening soon. Elk Grove, located just southwest of Sacramento, is set to welcome the Michelin Bib Gourmand eatery this February. The popular barbecue destination, known for its lively atmosphere, will provide its patrons with not just delectable food but also live music and appearances from esteemed pitmasters from across the nation.
Horn himself noted the warm reception the eatery received in Lafayette, indicating plans to replicate this experience for the Elk Grove community, stating, "Lafayette embraced us with open arms. Now we're bringing... to Elk Grove - a community..." The original Horn Barbecue location faced turbulent times after experiencing significant damage from fire and vandalism last November but has since made its move to Downtown Oakland.
Overall, these exciting developments reflect broader trends within the culinary and entertainment industries, as forward-thinking restaurants and festivals adapt to changing landscapes, reaching out to local communities and inviting them to partake in rich cultural experiences. Given the promising plans laid out by Sonic Drive-In, Comfort Festival, and Horn Barbecue, local residents can anticipate dynamic additions to their landscapes alongside novel opportunities to indulge their appetites for unique dining and live performances.