Sonic, Chili’s join restaurants with no-guns policy

Two more restaurant chains are adding their names to the list of eateries that have adopted a no-guns policy.

Sonic Drive-In and Chili's Grill & Bar issued statements Friday asking patrons to leave their guns at home.

USA Today reported Saturday that the announcements were prompted by recent demonstrations by open-carry activists who brought rifles and shotguns into Sonic, Chili's and Chipotle Mexican Grill outlets in Texas.

"We recognize that the open carry of firearms in restaurants creates an uncomfortable atmosphere and is not permitted under many local liquor laws," Chili’s Dallas-based parent said in statement. "So, we kindly ask that guests refrain from openly carrying firearms into our restaurants and we will continue to follow state and local laws on this issue."

The Oklahoma-based Sonic said: "We've considered the views and desires of our customers and employees that staff the drive-ins across the country. Accordingly, we're asking that customers refrain from bringing guns onto our patios or into our indoor dining areas. With respect to the storage of guns in vehicles, we ask that our customers continue to honor local laws."

USA Today said Chipotle implemented its no-gun policy after protests two weekends ago by the gun rights group Open Carry Texas.

Other places where guns aren’t welcome are Starbucks, Wendy's, Jack In The Box, and Applebee’s.