A Visit to the Automat Created by Christina Dunne

What was the automat? It was a restaurant with self-serving vending machines for cold foods and hot buffets served cafeteria style. There were no waiters or waitresses serving food.

Where were the automats located? These restaurants were located in Philadelphia and New York City. The restaurants were called Horn & Hardart. At one time there were 40 Horn & Hardart automats in New York City alone.

Why were these restaurants popular? You could get a good meal hot or cold for a cheap price. The meals were ready. No waiting required.

How did it work?

What foods did they serve? Popular hot items were macaroni and cheese, Boston baked beans, chicken pot pie, and cold items included sandwiches and pies.

As soon as a customer opened the glass door and removed what was inside the glass box, an employee on the other side quickly slipped another sandwich, salad, piece of pie or coffee cake into the empty spot.

What was H & H famous for? No one had a better cup of coffee.

Why did the automat close down after operating for so long? Fast food restaurants with drive-thru windows became appealing. The food they offered began to cost more than change to sell.