McDonald’s gave its coffeehouse-style brand the name McCafé when expanding the concept internationally.
McCafé began in Melbourne, Australia, in 1993, as a coffee-focused extension of a McDonald’s restaurant. The concept was designed to offer espresso-based drinks and a more café-like environment while remaining connected to the McDonald’s name. Its branding used the “Mc” prefix familiar from many McDonald’s product and service names.
The concept expanded to other countries and became an important part of McDonald’s beverage identity. Local menus differ, but McCafé commonly includes coffee drinks, pastries, and other café-style products. In some markets, the concept is represented by a dedicated counter or distinct interior treatment within a standard restaurant.
McCafé is the name of the brand, not the name of McDonald’s original restaurant format. Its first launch in Australia also means the concept predates its later visibility in many North American and European locations.