Seeing Red: Mac McGee's Color Choice Causes Local Controversy

Soon-to-open Mac McGee's newly painted red brick facade on Canton Street has stirred a bit of controversy among locals - some aren't bothered by its brightness and some are most definitely irritated at its lack of context within the historic district.

Roswell Patch reached out to the new restaurant managers, who are gearing up for a March 13 open date, regarding the color choice, but still haven't heard back. However, the city of Roswell said the company - which is new to the area, but has roots in Decatur - was free to choose its color without oversight from the city due to a state law loophole.

Click here to read what Roswell city staff said about why the color choice was allowed.

The topic is a touchy subject, some in Roswell are even calling for a boycott of the yet unopened Irish pub.

"Start a boycott against the pub until they change the color," Jeff Bradley wrote on Roswell Patch.

Locals also spoke out on the Roswell Patch Facebook page about whether or not they were offended by the color choice:

"Looks like it belongs in Pigeon Forge...Too loud for the neighborhood," wrote Philip Wright.

"Wish it was a bit toned down. I'm all for bright colors, but it's out of place for the area," Sabrina Newman said.

"I absolutely hate it. It is a blight on Canton Street. I actually called the city and complained while they were painting. It makes me cringe every time I drive down canton. I have zero intentions of ever stepping foot instide[sic]," said Stephanie Sears.

"Disrespectful and distasteful for Canton St & the historic district...works fine in Decatur on a 2-dimensional wall but a bit much in Roswell!" Alex Paulson wrote.

However, not everyone is as upset by the color, some even welcome the change within the district.

"I'll likely spend more time checking out the interior," wrote Joe Duffy.

"Mac McGees can do no wrong! Best bar ever!" said Annie Bell.

"The red looks a bit much, but hey, this is AMERICA!" Jason Sabatino wrote.

"If it keeps Roswell going in this great direction...fabulous! Great to have yet another place to cocktail and dine in historic Roswell!" wrote Nathalie Harvey Bernstein.

"LOVE IT! It adds character to Canton St. Now let's do something about those horrid black awnings with block letters," said Michael Hadden.

So what do you think? Is the color choice disrespectful or unimportant? Will you give it a try or boycott the establishment?