KFC Launches 10 Yuan Freshly Ground Coffee in Guangzhou

KFC is rolling out freshly brewed coffee at mass-market prices in China, starting with over 160 outlets in Guangzhou. For just 10 yuan, customers can get a cup of coffee made with beans ground right in the store—no instant, no pre-packaged. This move makes specialty-style coffee more accessible beyond boutique cafés.

KFC now serves 10 yuan cups of freshly ground coffee in Guangzhou, using 100% Arabica beans, ground and brewed on-site with controlled grind size, water temperature, and extraction time to highlight the beans’ natural flavours.

What’s in KFC’s New Coffee Offer?

The coffee launched in Guangzhou is part of KFC’s expanding fresh coffee initiative. It uses 100% Arabica beans, and every cup is prepared with beans ground in-store. KFC applies specific grind settings, water temperatures, and brewing times to preserve the beans’ inherent aromas and flavours. This approach moves beyond traditional instant coffee methods, aiming for a more authentic cup.

Where Is This Coffee Available?

This offering is now live in over 160 KFC restaurants across Guangzhou, making it the third city to get the product after Shanghai and Beijing. KFC plans to expand the freshly ground coffee series to at least 20 cities and 1,000 outlets by 2015, bringing the same 10 yuan price point and in-store grinding process to a much wider audience.

Why Grind Coffee In-Store?

Grinding coffee immediately before brewing is a key factor in preserving aroma and flavour. Pre-ground coffee loses volatile compounds quickly, resulting in a flatter taste. By grinding beans in-store, KFC ensures each cup starts with freshly exposed coffee particles, which can lead to better extraction and a more vibrant cup profile. This method mirrors practices used by specialty coffee shops, though executed at a fast-food scale and price.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does KFC’s freshly ground coffee cost?

KFC’s freshly ground coffee is priced at 10 yuan per cup in Guangzhou, the same price offered in Shanghai and Beijing. This makes it an affordable option compared to many specialty coffee outlets.

What kind of coffee beans does KFC use?

KFC uses 100% Arabica beans for its freshly ground coffee. The beans are ground in-store for each cup, aiming to deliver a fresher and more aromatic brew compared to pre-ground alternatives.

Where can I buy KFC’s freshly ground coffee?

As of the report, the freshly ground coffee is available in over 160 KFC locations in Guangzhou. It was previously launched in Shanghai and Beijing, and KFC plans to roll it out to at least 20 cities and 1,000 outlets by 2015.

Does KFC grind the coffee beans in-store?

Yes, KFC grinds the coffee beans in-store for each cup of freshly ground coffee. This is intended to preserve the coffee’s freshness and enhance its flavour by using properly extracted, freshly ground beans.

What brewing standards does KFC follow for its coffee?

KFC applies specific grind sizes, water temperatures, and extraction times for its freshly ground coffee to maintain the beans’ natural flavours. While exact parameters aren’t publicised, the process is designed to highlight the characteristics of the 100% Arabica beans used.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Affordable Espresso

For drinkers exploring affordable yet flavourful espresso options similar to KFC’s freshly ground approach, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Black Cocoa Blend. It delivers bold cocoa and nutty notes with a smooth body, ideal for milk drinks. The Commercial Blend offers a rich, toasty profile with notes of caramel and dark chocolate, great for everyday brewing. Both are medium to medium-dark roasts, providing balance and crema suitable for espresso or milk-based drinks. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.