Starbucks announced Monday that patrons can expect wine, beer and premium food at four to six undisclosed Los Angeles-area stores before the end of 2012. 

The coffee company first expanded its food and beverage menu to include alcohol at a Seattle store in 2010, according to the company's website. Five stores in the Seattle area and one in Portland currently serve wine, beer and premium food.

Late last year, Starbucks announced plans to bring the concept to five to seven locations in the Chicago area by the end of 2012. In addition to Los Angeles, Atlanta will see four to six stores by the end of the year.

As part of the new menu, these stores will serve savory snacks, small plates, and hot flatbreads, as well as wine and beer. The wine and beer list will be hand-selected to reflect local customer tastes and preferences, and will be refined over time, the company says.

Right now, there is one Starbucks located near the border of Highland Park and Eagle Rock at the intersection of York and Eagle Rock Boulevards.

According to EveryBlock.com, the last new liquor license to be approved on York Boulevard was handed out on December 27 to Ba Restaurant on 5100 York Blvd.--which will be allowed to sell beer and wine with food.

Uno Market Produce Market 5, located at 6655 N. Figueroa St., is also in the process of applying for a license to sell beer, wine and distilled spirits.

Would you welcome to Highland Park/Eagle Rock a Starbucks that served wine and beer?