By Joe Bachman

The Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce welcomed a new member on Wednesday afternoon.

Salt & Peper’s Drive-in is owned and operated by Mandy & Pat Peper, and opened its doors last October in place of the old Kathy’s Drive-in. What started as a dream for Pat Peper soon turned into reality.

“Ever since I met Pat he’s wanted to own his own restaurant,” said Mandy Peper. “He’s been in the business for 17 years.”

After many months of scouting various locations in the area, Pat never found the smaller venue he was looking for. However, opportunity rose once the closing of long-time favorite Kathy’s Drive-in was announced.

“We found out the drive-in was for sale and looked into it and within a few months we were business owners,” said Mandy Peper. “Something that we want to continue to do is bring that family experience with great atmosphere and great food to Rapids — and keep it going.”

According to Peper, car-hops will be making a return in spring. Salt & Peper’s Drive-in serves locally sourced 100% grass-fed beef in their burgers, as well as a range of classic drive-in menu items.

Salt & Peper’s Drive-in is located at 1621 Baker St. For more information, check out their Facebook page by clicking here.