KFC opened a new location in McKinney on Thursday to serve as a testing ground for new concepts intended to strengthen the brand's position in the United States. The restaurant, designated as Open House, introduces breakfast service, a first for the chain in the U.S., and extends operating hours into the late night.
The menu includes new beverages such as boba-filled drinks and milkshakes with crunchy toppings, along with an expanded selection of chicken tenders, sauces, and side dishes including fried green beans and spicy pickles.
The facility features double drive-thru lanes and a dedicated mobile order pickup station. However, the design prioritizes in-store dining, allowing customers to order via digital kiosks and have food delivered to their tables. Additional amenities include a photo booth and a counter for branded merchandise.
KFC has not specified how much of this design or menu will be adopted across its 3,424 U.S. locations, though similar beverage offerings have already been introduced in markets such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Turkey.
Christophe Poirier, KFC’s Chief Concept Officer, stated that the company is automating ordering tasks to allow staff to focus on hospitality. He described the goal as creating an experience comparable to high-end retail environments, where service quality is a key differentiator. Poirier noted that while customers may not recall specific meals, they remember the feelings associated with the dining experience.
