The latte, along with mochas, cappuccinos and other gourmet drinks are for real and they're available now at McDonald's in Decatur.
The new addition to the fast food restaurant is McCafe, a concept that goes national for McDonald's in May. In the meantime, local customers can sample the premium drinks long before the rest of the nation.
Jon Williams, director of operations for LarCar Partners Ltd., owners of the two McDonald's locations in Decatur, said when the restaurant on U.S. 380 was rebuilt 11/2 years ago, the equipment for McCafe was installed. Decatur Manager Deana Brooker and her staff hosted corporate training for the concept.
With gas prices what they are today, Williams said McDonald's wants to be a one-stop shop.
"Mom can get a latte and the kids can have their Happy Meal," said Williams. "Where do kids want to eat?" he asks, already knowing the answer. "So let's face it, you're going to end up here anyway."
The drinks can be prepared hot or iced and Williams said the prices are reasonable, ranging from $2.39 to $3.39. The premium roast coffee is available for $1.09 to $1.59
Customers have their choice of syrup, including vanilla, sugar-free vanilla, caramel or hazlenut. Whipped cream and chocolate syrup are also an option. Hot chocolate is also part of the offering.
"We make it the way you like it," Williams said. "People think everything is mass-produced but you're getting individual stuff."
In keeping with the open concept of the restaurant, where customers can see everything being prepared, the McCafe is also in plain sight. The equipment is self-cleaning. In addition, manual cleaning is performed daily and weekly. Williams is a stickler for cleanliness.
To introduce the public to McCafe, the restaurant is offering, for a limited time, a free sandwich with purchase of a gourmet drink.
To make McDonald's even more family friendly, Williams said smoothies, energy drinks and more "grab and go" drinks will be offered.
