The documentary explores the history of Horn + Hardart, an iconic American restaurant chain that thrived from 1902 to 1991, despite being limited to Philadelphia and New York City. The concept of automats, where food was displayed behind glass doors and purchased with nickels, became a beloved institution. Interviews with celebrities, historians, and former employees share fond memories of the automat, contributing to its enduring popularity. The documentary delves into the founders' vision, the reasons behind the chain's success, and its eventual decline and demise.
The Automat
The story of a pioneering vending machine that transformed the way people eat by providing freshly prepared meals to the masses in the 20th century.