McDonald's
"Would you like unlimited fries with that?"
The future of fast food is coming to Missouri, and it tastes like french fries.
McDonald’s will unveil what it’s calling the “McDonald’s of the Future” in St. Joseph, Missouri, this summer. Customers at the 6,500-square-foot restaurant will use touch-screen kiosks to order customizable burgers, chicken sandwiches, and desserts with all-you-can-eat fries.
“There really are hundreds of different choices to build the burger of your dreams,” said Chris Habiger, who owns the St. Joseph location with his wife, to the St. Joseph News-Press. “Once you’ve placed your order, you can find your seat because we’ll bring it out to you.”
Update, 4/20: Bad news, french fry fans. It turns out the offer of unlimited fries is for a limited time, just to promote the new St. Jo store's grand opening, according to the Associated Press. End of update.
That’s right, Future McDonald’s includes table-side service, which means you won’t have to get up from the earth-tone couches and arm chairs that’ll be part of the chain’s new look.
“Today’s customers seek a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, so we’re committed to providing a modern look and feel to this restaurant,” Habiger told the News-Press.
McDonald's
Kids can get in on the fun, too. The new Mickey D’s will include interactive light board tables, tabletop video games, and digital play in addition to the typical, multi-story Play Place.
McDonald’s has been fumbling around for a new hook to expand its reach, especially among tech-savvy millennials tempted to spend their expendable income on healthier fast-casual options. All-day breakfast has been a big winner. Premium McWraps, the chain’s healthier wrap-style sandwiches, were a bust.
If the media buzz surrounding the futuristic McDonald’s offerings is any indication, the changes are already a hit. Since the announcement almost two weeks ago, national news outlets have been squealing about the new McDonald’s, especially the unlimited fries.
“If you're like us and tend to spill half the fries onto the floor of your car before you even leave the parking lot, you're going to want to take advantage of this perk,” says E! Online. “Oh, you thought that was all? Get serious. Even the desserts will be customizable. Can we get a round of applause for these pioneers over in Missouri?”
Contact Lindsay Toler by an email at LToler@stlmag.com or on Twitter @StLouisLindsay. For more from St. Louis Magazine, subscribe or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
