Starbucks plans to open a Reserve Roastery in Chicago next year, the third in the nation after Seattle’s, which opened in 2014 and one in New York which will open later this year. The location, at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Erie Street, is currently the marquee retail location for Crate and Barrel, which plans to move out on January 24 following news that they plan to lease office and production space in The Fields in Logan Square.
“Having opened our first Starbucks store in Chicago nearly 30 years ago, our first outside of Seattle, this is a very special city for me,” said Howard Schultz, Starbucks executive chairman. “At the time, it was a true test for Starbucks because the Chicago customer is so savvy and discerning about their coffee.”
The four-story, 43,000-square-foot space will roast, brew and package the coffee giant’s small-batch, Starbucks Reserve, coffee. The company plans to open 20-30 Roastery locations globally in the next few years, including one in the West Loop.
“Chicago’s Magnificent Mile brings in millions of visitors from across this globe and is the perfect location for a world-class coffee destination,” Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said. “This Starbucks Reserve Roastery will be an investment in Chicago and a strong addition to Michigan Avenue, where residents and visitors can enjoy incredible coffees from around the world in a remarkable environment.”
