Iconic ‘Blue Arby’s’ near UK campus will get new life as drive-thru coffee chain
A Lexington landmark known as the “Blue Arby’s” for its one-of-a-kind Wildcat blue restaurant could be getting a new tenant.
And yes, the color scheme is likely to stay blue.
Dutch Bros, the Oregon-based coffee chain, is planning to put its second Lexington location on the spot at 507 S. Limestone, right across from the University of Kentucky campus.
The restaurant has been vacant since Arby’s closed in 2019. But Dutch Bros. said in a statement to the Herald-Leader that the company hopes to open a location there by the end of 2024.
This will be the city’s second one; a first Dutch Bros, announced in March, is expected to open before the end of 2023, according to a company spokesperson, at 234 E. New Circle in a former Northside Sonic location next to a Walgreens.
Dutch Bros operates drive-thru coffee kiosks and has a near cult-like following, especially in the West. It’s known for great coffee, positive vibes and great service.
How will the South Limestone drive-thru work?
The new location near campus will require a reconfiguration of the property to allow for a double drive-thru. It appears the existing 3,000-square-foot building would be at least partially torn down.
Cars will enter off Colfax Street then circle up to the back of the 950-square-foot building for pick up and carry out, according to a zone change proposal submitted to the city planners earlier this month.
Cars will exit to Colfax, with no direct exiting onto South Limestone. Limited parking will be available.
A public hearing on the proposed zone change to allow the development is scheduled for Oct. 27.
The privately owned property is between a fire station and a parking lot owned by UK, with largely student housing to the rear. The Colfax Street intersection is where Upper Street merges with Limestone, right across from the driveway to the historic UK Main Building that houses administrative offices. The UK Gatton College of Business and Economics is nearby.
What makes Dutch Bros special?
The chain was founded in 1992 by brothers Dane and Travis Boersma in Grants Pass, Ore. They built a passionate following among coffee drinkers who need a fix from the “broistas” who make their drinks. The chain has now expanded to more than 500 locations in 13 states.
And the menu has expanded, too. Besides its proprietary coffee blend, they also sell specialty coffees, smoothies, freezes, teas, their Dutch Bros Blue Rebel energy drink and nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee, according to the company.
The company also focuses on giving back to communities, with fundraisers dedicated to fighting food insecurity, non-profit local kids organizations and finding a cure for ALS. Through its Dutch Bros Foundation and local franchisees, the company donates several million dollars to causes across the country each year, Dutch Bros said.
The chain also is known for its workers. In 2016 a photo taken at a Vancouver location went viral after someone noticed employees comforting a woman in prayer in the car ahead.
This story was originally published September 16, 2022 at 11:34 AM.
