Whataburger, Chipotle seek drive-thru exceptions: Board of Zoning Appeals preview

Greenville, South Carolina

The city of Greenville’s Board of Zoning Appeals will convene on May 9 to consider several special exception permit requests, including those from popular fast-food chains Whataburger and Chipotle.

Whataburger’s appeal

Whataburger, a Texas-based fast-food chain known for its beloved burgers and 24-hour service, is appealing the denial of its request for a special exception permit in September 2023. The company has plans to open a location on Laurens Road and is seeking permission to operate its drive-thru between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m.

The initial request was met with nearly unanimous rejection, leading Whataburger to hold off on reapplying. However, the company now hopes to overturn the decision and move forward with its plans.

Lost and Found bar

Another notable request on the agenda is from 245 N. Main St. LLC, which is seeking a special exception permit for a bar called Lost and Found. The bar, which would be located at 245 N. Main St., is looking to operate between midnight and 5 a.m.

Lost and Found aims to offer a unique experience to patrons with its menu featuring tapas-style and handheld fare, as well as a variety of cocktails.

Chipotlane drive-thru

The board will also review an application from Chipotle Mexican Grill for an accessory drive-thru. The drive-thru, called a “Chipotlane,” is proposed to be located on the backside of the company’s upcoming location at 1536 Laurens Road near the corner of South Pleasantburg Drive. Chipotle is seeking a special exception permit to operate the drive-thru.

Woodruff Road expansion

Whataburger will be presenting a second application for a special exception permit to operate between midnight and 5 a.m., this time for a proposed location on Woodruff Road. The company recently broke ground on its first Woodruff Road location at 1466 Woodruff Road in March. The new application covers a separate location at 1114 Woodruff Road.

The Board of Zoning Appeals will carefully consider the merits of each application before making a decision. Community members and stakeholders are encouraged to attend the meeting and voice any concerns or opinions they may have regarding the proposed exceptions.

The meeting will be held at [Insert Venue Name/Address] at [Insert Time].

Overall, these requests from Whataburger, Chipotle, and the Lost and Found bar demonstrate the desire for expanded operating hours and drive-thru options in the Greenville area. The Board of Zoning Appeals will play a crucial role in determining whether these exceptions are granted and how they might impact the community.

Stay tuned for updates on the outcome of these requests and their potential implications for the Greenville community.