‘Counterculture’ restaurant chain plans Iowa City location

Cheba Hut Toasted Subs, a “counterculture” restaurant that, frankly, doesn't care if you inhaled, will open this fall in Iowa City.

The Fort Collins, Colo.-based chain announced last week a franchised restaurant will open near the University of Iowa.

Cheba Hut requires each restaurant franchisee to own a vintage Volkswagen Microbus, and its menu and marketing is spiced with references to marijuana - menu items are named after different strains for marijuana.

“We don't think as a group that marijuana is a bad thing,” Chief Operating Officer Matt Trethewey said. “We don't make light of the substance. We make light of the fact that it's illegal.”

Customer loyalty is high, he said, crediting the food, music, and lively decor that make the store interesting.

The marijuana theme doesn't play well with some area substance abuse prevention professionals.

“Any time messages in the community make light of substance abuse, it makes it more difficult for the community and, in particular, our youth, to recognize that there are real risks associated with use,” said Melissa Walker, deputy director of prevention services for the Area Substance Abuse Council in Cedar Rapids.

Some Cheba Hut locations include beer bars that specialize in local and regional microbrews, Trethewey said. Because of city efforts to limit the number of downtown liquor licenses, it's unlikely that the Iowa City restaurant will serve beer, at least initially, he said.

The restaurant's menu includes several vegetarian sandwiches, including the “Majic Mushroom” and the “Silver Haze.” It also includes the Pakalolo, a sandwich with smoked ham, pineapple, and Swiss cheese.

The specific store location and opening date have not been decided. It will be operated by Midwest Munchie Management LLC, owned by David Timmons, Deb Wedemeier and Kent Wedemeier.