McDonald's first branded coffeehouse concept was called McCafé.
McCafé began in Melbourne, Australia, in 1993. The concept was designed to give McDonald's restaurants a more distinctive coffeehouse identity, with espresso-based drinks and a café-style environment alongside the traditional fast-food menu.
The idea expanded internationally and became an important part of McDonald's beverage branding. In many markets, McCafé products include coffee, cappuccino, latte, pastries, and other café-style items. The exact menu and store format vary by country.
McCafé is sometimes mistaken for a separate company or a completely independent chain. It is a McDonald's brand concept, usually operating inside or alongside McDonald's restaurants. Its creation also reflects a broader shift in the fast-food industry toward specialty coffee and more varied dayparts, especially breakfast and afternoon service.