- May 19, 2016
Downtown Starbucks Expands Menu to Include Alcohol
Northbrook’s downtown Starbucks has a new look to go with its expanded menu that now includes light bites along with a selection of wines and craft beer. The “Starbucks Evening Menu” is offered Monday through Friday from 2:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m and Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 8:30 p.m. The downtown store at 1931 Cherry Lane is the only Northbrook Starbucks location offering the Evenings menu.
“By expanding our offerings to include food and drinks that are more suitable for the evening hours, we are enhancing our role as a gathering place for the community throughout the day and into the evening,” comments a Starbucks spokesperson.
The store also has a new layout to provide an inviting atmosphere for unwinding in the evening. “Designers focused on experiential elements such as innovative lighting, community tables that encourage conversations, soft seating, warm colors and local art.”
The wine and craft beer menu includes selections that take into consideration local taste preferences. According to Starbucks, the Chicago area stores will offer locally brewed Goose Island and Goose IPA craft beers. A combination of local and regional favorites will rotate periodically.
The small plates include warm dishes meant to be sharable, ranging from Truffle Popcorn to flatbreads to bacon-wrapped dates. Starbucks notes that it worked side-by-side with its winery partners to identify the small plate assortment to fit the uniqueness of the wine and beer menu. Despite the additional menu items, no changes were made to the kitchen area.
Northbrook is one of only 10 locations on the North Shore that now serves beer and wine. Starbucks officials comment that they consider a number of factors before selecting a store for the new menu. “We believe a coffee house should be welcoming, inviting and familiar place for people to connect and reflect the unique character of the neighborhoods they serve.” Starbucks commented that it is in the very early stages of considering the Skokie Boulevard store for the Evening Menu.&’ type=’text/javascript’>