Sonic Returns to Northeast Indiana as Construction Begins on Auburn Drive-In

AUBURN, Ind. – Fast food is getting a retro reboot in northeast Indiana as construction begins on a new Sonic Drive-In in Auburn, marking the return of the iconic chain to the region after several years of absence.

The restaurant is rising at 1520 Shook Drive, just off I-69 and surrounded by heavy commercial anchors including Home Depot and Cracker Barrel. Once completed, it will be the only Sonic Drive-In operating in northeast Indiana.

Mid-October launch targeted

Franchise owner Alex Richardson confirmed that ground was broken last week and construction is progressing toward a mid-October opening date, pending weather and permitting.

“We’re excited to bring Sonic back to this part of the state,” Richardson said. “Auburn is growing, and we think it’s the perfect place to reintroduce the drive-in experience.”

This will be the first Sonic to serve the Fort Wayne metro area in years. The region previously hosted two Fort Wayne locations—on Maplecrest Road and Lima Road—both of which have since closed. The original Auburn Sonic, located at 402 Smaltz Way, is now home to Salsa Grille.

A nostalgic brand with national momentum

Known for its roller-skating carhops, customizable slush drinks, coney dogs, and burgers, Sonic is banking on consumer appetite for nostalgia and convenience. The chain, owned by Inspire Brands, operates more than 3,500 drive-in restaurants nationwide.

Sonic currently has:

• 25 locations in Indiana

• 37 in Ohio

The new Auburn unit is part of a broader Midwest expansion effort targeting mid-sized markets and highway-adjacent suburbs, where the drive-in format offers differentiation from traditional quick-service chains.

Strategic site with high traffic potential

Located just off I-69 Exit 326, the new Auburn location sits in a high-visibility corridor with existing hospitality, retail, and restaurant traffic. The site’s proximity to major regional attractions like Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum and Kruse Plaza is also expected to bolster footfall.

The development aligns with the city’s recent growth trajectory, as Auburn continues to attract both residential and commercial investment. The return of a national brand like Sonic may serve as a bellwether for future retail expansion.

Comeback drive-in model

Sonic’s enduring appeal lies in its carhop model, which has become an unexpected strength in a post-pandemic world where drive-thru and outdoor dining have surged in popularity. Many of its newer builds also include dedicated mobile order lanes, outdoor patio seating, and touchscreen ordering kiosks, blending tradition with tech.

Richardson declined to comment on the specific architectural details of the Auburn build but confirmed it will reflect Sonic’s latest design standards and menu offerings.

What’s next?

If the Auburn store performs well, it could prompt further expansion in the Fort Wayne area. While no additional sites are currently confirmed, Richardson said his team is “actively evaluating” opportunities based on regional demand and real estate availability.

For now, northeast Indiana Sonic fans can look forward to October—and the return of cherry limeades, tater tots, and mid-century Americana flair—just in time for fall.