Many students have probably complained about the lack of big chain restaurants in Rexburg. What they probably don’t realize is that there’s a reason why resturants like Chili’s, Olive Garden, and Outback Steakhouse won’t be coming to Rexburg — they legally can’t.
According to a law passed in 1947, “liquor by the drink” licenses within the city limits are strictly prohibited. In other words, Chili’s colorful martini menu, Olive Garden’s selection of wines, and Outback’s bar will have to stay away.
There are generally two different views on the issue. Those who want national chain restaurants to come into Rexburg because they believe it will spur economic growth and will offer the convenience of staying in Rexburg to eat, rather than making the 20-minute drive to Idaho Falls. Amanda Reynolds, a senior from Harpers Ferry, W. Va., is a supporter of this view.
“I think the national chain restaurants such as Olive Garden or Applebee’s would do well with the current population boom in Rexburg,” she said.
The reluctance of the city to open up “hard liquor” licenses may restrict the restaurant options, but many of the residents believe that it also cuts down on violence, crime and accidents involving drunk drivers.
Blair Kay, the Rexburg city clerk, said Rexburg is a town that can make a difference by saying “no” to liquor and to its consequences. He hopes Rexburg will always retain its moral, upstanding values.
Perhaps there will never be an Applebee’s or a Texas Roadhouse in Rexburg, but there are new restaurants introduced every year.
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