April 11--McDonald's is testing a McCafe kiosk at two Chicago locations that allows customers to grab espresso drinks without standing in line.
The kiosk features a touch screen to select lattes, mochas, cappuccinos or coffee that are customizable based on preference for flavor, milk and amount of espresso. Flavors offered are French vanilla (regular and sugar-free), hazelnut and caramel. Customers pay with a credit card, using the touch screen for the transaction. The specialty hot drinks cost $2.99 and are only available in a 16-ounce size.
The kiosks are installed at the McDonald's restaurants in the Merchandise Mart and at the corner of Adams and Wells streets, according to spokeswoman Lisa McComb. McDonald's didn't say whether it plans to install more of the kiosks in Chicago, or across the U.S.
McDonald's plans to roll out coffee kiosks at all its stand-alone McCafe stores in Canada. It opened the first such location in Toronto in December.
sbomkamp@tribpub.com
