PEABODY — The fast-food restaurant that calls itself "America's Drive-in" has found a spot on Route 1 north.
Sonic restaurant could open in Peabody, between SpringHill and Homewood Suites, by August. It will be the first New England franchise for what is a nationwide chain. Sonic is known locally for its popular commercials featuring humorous exchanges between two patrons in the front seat of their car.
With a drive-through and car-side service, the restaurant, which specializes in burgers, shakes and slushes, has a "retro-style," said Donald Conn, the lawyer representing Sonic's local management. Regina and Gregg Monastiero, former residents of Peabody, are opening the restaurant.
Sonic will not offer indoor seating. It will have outdoor patio seating that will accommodate about 50 along with 41 parking spaces.
The restaurant last week received a special permit from the City Council to operate. Councilors welcomed the business with open arms.
Ward 5 Councilor Dave Gamache praised it for reviving a vacant and overgrown lot.
"I'm quite excited as the ward councilor," he said. Sonic will employ 120 people. It will be open from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Councilor-at-large Jim Liacos applauded his colleagues for voting against an Exxon station that was supposed to occupy the site. It resulted in a prolonged legal battle.
"I'm proud to say we have a better development for sticking to our guns," Liacos said.







