Chinese coffee chain Luckin Coffee has made its debut in the US, opening two stores in New York City; one on 6th Avenue and another on Broadway. 

Founded in 2017, the cafe is known for its streamlined takeout model and cashierless stores. Customers order exclusively through mobile apps, a model that allowed the company to scale rapidly while keeping operating costs low.

The brand now has more than 22,000 locations across China, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong.

Luckin’s New York stores feature a pared-back setup, offering a menu that includes traditional espresso drinks and a selection of its signature beverages. These include iced coffees infused with fruit flavours like pineapple and raspberry, and a line of colourful “Refreshers” made with coconut milk, fruit juices, and cold foam.

In addition to beverages, the cafe offers a variety of pastries and breakfast items, including banana yogurt loaf, chocolate chip cookies, and sausage, egg, and cheese croissants.

“The international market is filled with opportunities, but also presents significant challenges that require patience, time, and continuous investment,” said Guo Jinyi, chairman and CEO of Luckin Coffee, during an earnings call last year. 

“We remain both patient and confident in our ability to succeed.”