The Automats were here back in 1902:

automat, n. | Gr. automatos, self-acting |

1. an apparatus for serving foods mechanically when a coin is dropped in a slot. 2. a restaurant having such apparatus in place

The pictures (above) are showing the Horn & Hardart Automat. Many of vending machines are salvaged and in the Automat Collection of Steve Stollman.

Fresh form the press nytimes.com/stories-from-the-automat-machines-in-a-harlem-basement.

Read the full story at nytimes.com/the-automat-lives-on.

And they are coming back:

Now Available as Modern

Vending Automat Machines!

due January, 2011

For the Sales in the Untied States Contact:

Steve Stollman,

Tel. 212 925 8505 or Email 

Specifications:

Electronic monetary system NRI G-13

Turnover counter

Digital coin counter

100% stainless steel construction

Modern illumination of the vended products

Eight Compartments, each heated up to 90 degrees Celsius

Digital temperature regulation (The preset temperature is automatically controlled)

Cleaning button (easy cleaning)

Coin-section lock utilising special key

Electric supply: 110V/220V / 50Hz / 280W

Dimensions: H 45.25", W 13.5", D 9.5", Weight: 45lb, 1 year Warranty

The Automat is not limited to food only:

This vending machine can serve as a 24-hours gift, tennis or golfing items shop, a newspaper kiosk, photo shop, you name it.

It can also sell cosmetics articles, aftershaves, nail polish and nail polish remover, perfumes, make-up, shirts, socks, shoe-laces, lighters, pens, notebooks, clocks, compact discs, tooth-brushes, etc.

It can also be a perfect sales force at Hotels, Airports, Train Stations, Bus Terminals, Ports, Service Stations, Schools, Hospitals, Department Stores, etc.