The Automats are updated and back! What is an automat? Customers can place their coins or credit card in a window of a vending machine, to purchase their sandwiches, soups or pies, in a very relaxed atmosphere. Other fun facts:

• They offer comfort foods such as pot roast or mac and cheese
• The world’s first automat was named Quisisana, which opened in Berlin, Germany in 1895
• The first automat in the U.S. was opened June 12, 1902
• The first machines in the United States only took nickels
• Customers can order food in advance online or via the restaurant’s app and then pick it up from the locker
• Automats are like vending machines for hot food
• Some automats use pre-made food while others make food to order
• Newer dishes include seared Atlantic salmon, chicken parmesan sandwich, and burritos
• The concept is viable with institutional dining, in airports, highway stops, and college campuses
• KFC and Smashburger are now using updated automats

Homeschoolers: Sketch/color an illustration. List the pros and cons of dining with automats. Read the story “Benjamin Bunny” and describe what Benjamin Bunny brings home for dinner.