Starbucks allowed to serve alcohol in West Dundee

Starbucks may soon serve alcohol at a West Dundee location after the village granted the company a liquor license Monday.

Starbucks representatives came before the liquor control commission Monday, seeking permission to eventually sell craft beer and wine at its 203 N. 8th St. store as part of the company's new Evenings Program.

"The foundation of the program is to support the afternoon business," said Kelly Tadelman, a Starbucks representative.

The program, she said, was initially intended for working class women who want to have a drink with friends in a relaxed atmosphere without having to go to a bar.

In addition to wine and beer, the Evenings menu includes its usual coffee and tea selections, along with small plate appetizers, such as flatbreads and truffle mac & cheese.

Rebecca Rabin, an attorney representing Starbucks, said there will be rules surrounding alcohol sales.

For example, she said, each customer can only purchase one alcoholic beverage at a time.

Additionally, all employees working at that particular Starbucks location would be required to be at least 21 years old and will be certified to serve alcohol, Tadelman said.

Baristas underage will be transferred to a different location.

"Starbucks takes the utmost importance around the brand," she said.

Village President Chris Nelson said he thinks the program is a great idea, noting that it offers a variety of options for customers.

"Thank you for choosing West Dundee to launch this program," Nelson said. "We're really excited."

Following the liquor control commission meeting, the village board also approved raising the number of liquor licenses allowed in West Dundee.

The Evenings Program has been adopted at 10 select stores throughout the Chicago area, including Schaumburg, Yorkville, Evanston, Burr Ridge and Winnetka. Earlier this month, the Algonquin liquor commission also approved of granting Starbucks a liquor license.

Tadelman said a large number of additional locations in the area will launch the program within the next few months.