Block 5 welcomes Toastique restaurant with plans for outdoor patio space

In the heart of Rapid City, excitement buzzes around the new Block 5 project, a transformative development at the intersection of Fifth and Saint Joseph Streets. As the city prepares for its first commercial tenant, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The hotel is now open, and apartments are set to welcome residents this summer, but it’s the arrival of a unique dining experience that has captured the community's attention.

The proposed restaurant, Toastique, is set to be a gourmet toast and juice bar, offering a brunch-style menu from 7 AM to 5 PM, seven days a week. With plans to serve fresh juices and mimosa drinks, Toastique aims to become a vibrant addition to the local dining scene. Located at 525 Saint Joseph Street, Suite Number 1, this establishment will be the first to occupy a commercial space in the Block 5 project, which has been under construction for some time.

However, the journey to opening day has not been without its challenges. A proposed outdoor patio for Toastique is currently on hold due to a pedestrian easement issue. In 2012, a portion of the right of way was vacated to facilitate a previous project that never materialized. Although the developers of Block 5 rededicated this space as a pedestrian easement in 2023, the current regulations prohibit any obstructions, including tables and chairs, which are essential for the outdoor dining experience Toastique envisions.

City officials are actively exploring solutions to this dilemma, aiming to either vacate or modify the easement to allow for the desired patio space. The staff report indicates that the outdoor expansion of the on-sale liquor permit will be contingent upon resolving this issue, highlighting the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses while navigating regulatory hurdles.

As construction continues along Sixth Street, the community watches closely, eager to see how this new venture will unfold. With the hotel and apartments already adding life to the area, the addition of Toastique promises to enhance the vibrant atmosphere of Block 5, making it a focal point for both residents and visitors alike. The anticipation builds as the city prepares for what could be a delightful new chapter in Rapid City's culinary landscape.