RI's First Sonic Set to Open Oct. 26

The new Sonic Drive-In restaurant in Smithfield is almost ready for its big grand opening, and big crowds are expected.

Store owners Sharon and Bob Bowen told the Valley Breeze that the store will be open for business on Oct. 26, but that hasn’t stopped dozens of people from pulling in to the parking lot in the hopes of getting a burger and a shake.

The new restaurant will offer seating inside the former Wendy’s building, which has been totally renovated, along with its trademark drive-up service, which hearkens back to what we like to imagine were simpler times.

Rhode Islanders, for years, have seen commercials for the popular chain for years. It just so happens that Bob and Sharon saw them too and wondered why they were always on TV even though the closest one was a daytrip away.

They called to inquire and learned that part of the reason was to attract a couple like Bob and Sharon Bowen, who now find themselves under pressure to deliver something many have anticipated for years.

“They do that on purpose, so people will call them to inquire,” Sharon told the Providence Journal. “Two years later, here we are.”

Sonic now operates 3,500 drive-in locations and says it serves 3 million customers every day. It plans to open nearly 30 new franchises across the country this year alone.

The restaurant will be open daily from 7 a.m. to midnight.

To keep tabs on the new Sonic’s goings-on, follow the restaurant on Facebook.