Controversy brews over drive-thru plans for Roni’s Mac Bar

A new proposed drive-thru in the alleyway at the upcoming restaurant in Cape Girardeau, Roni’s Mac Bar, has sparked controversy among residents. Planned for Cape’s Central Business District, the restaurant has sparked a debate among nearby property owners.

The city council initially postponed its decision to give a special use permit to Roni’s for their drive-thru for two weeks after Cape residents voiced concerns over the restaurant's plan to use an alleyway for drive-thru access.

While Roni’s Mac Bar owners emphasized their goal to bring comfort food to downtown Cape, neighboring property owners have raised objections.

KRCU reported that Local property owners raised concerns over losing access to the alleyway that connects to their properties. Some also expressed concerns over not being properly notified about the alleyway proposal during the early stages of the planning process.

Before the vote, the council amended the proposal to address the traffic concerns, designating the alley’s north half as a two-way and the south half as a one-way to accommodate drive-thru access.

On Nov. 4, 2024, the city of Cape unanimously approved the special use permit, allowing for a drive-thru window at Roni’s Mac Bar on Broadway Street. The permit passed despite the safety concerns raised by residents regarding the design of the drive-thru.

As a result of the permit being passed, residents of Cape Girardeau raised a lawsuit against the city, alleging it illegally approved a special use permit for Roni’s Mac Bar. The plaintiffs - Athena Property Group, Shiloh and Remedy Capital - claim that the city violated procedures by granting the permit, which allows the restaurant to use the public alley for its drive-thru.

Roni’s Mac Bar and the building owners were named in the lawsuit as the defendants, with the plaintiffs asking the court to void the permit and declare it unconstitutional..

Roni’s Mac Bar, popularized on social media, features build-your-own Mac and Cheese bowls, as well as grilled cheese. They also sell beverages and sweet treats to complete your meal.

While the future of Roni’s Mac Bar in Cape is uncertain, Roni’s still displays their grand-opening sign at their potential location on Broadway Street. The owners have said if an agreement cannot be reached, the franchise may consider relocating to another site, possibly outside of Cape Girardeau.

As Roni’s continues to showcase its plans for a grand opening on Broadway, the ongoing legal battle and unresolved community concerns will ultimately decide whether the franchise becomes a part of Cape’s downtown landscape or is forced to seek opportunities elsewhere.