When McDonald’s made news a month ago over a $5 value meal, it seemed likely that its competitors would respond in kind.
It didn’t seem obvious that Starbucks would be among them. But the Seattle-based coffee chain came out with an offer this week.
Its “pairings menu” includes tall iced or hot coffee or tea and a butter croissant for $5 and the same beverages with a breakfast sandwich for $6. Double Smoked Bacon and the Impossible breakfast sandwich raise the price to $7, according to terms on the Starbucks app. There are no substitutions, and customizations might cost extra.
In Starbucks speak, tall is the same as small at other places.
To order on the Starbucks app, select items individually. A deduction is made at checkout.
The McDonald’s deal is expected but the fast food giant hasn’t posted a press release on the matter. According to news reports from outlets such as CNBC, it will start June 25, run about a month and include a sandwich, chicken nuggets, fries and a drink.
On Tuesday, Burger King came out with a similar deal called the $5 Your Way Meal, which also includes a sandwich, nuggets, fries and drink.
Wendy’s continues to offer Biggie Bags with the same four items, but a spot check of Southern California restaurants showed prices ranging from $7 to $9.
Arby’s has a one-time offer for its rewards members, five Classic Roast Beef Sandwiches for $5. It’s available through Sunday, June 16. Orders must be made online or through the app.
McDonald’s has been dogged by rumors in recent weeks, including one spread on YouTube that the chain will pull out of California. According to SFGate, the claim is not supported by evidence and appears in web postings that show signs of being generated with artificial intelligence.
On May 29 Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald’s USA, released an “open letter” denying claims of price gouging in the midst of inflation.