Starbucks drinks (© dontree - stock.adobe.com)
Starbucks was founded in Seattle, Washington in 1971 by three partners: Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, and Gordon Bowker. They opened their first store in Seattle's Pike Place Market and sold high-quality coffee beans and equipment. In 1982, Howard Schultz joined the company as Director of Marketing. After a trip to Italy, he decided to transform Starbucks into a coffeehouse serving espresso drinks.
In 1984, Schultz opened the first Starbucks cafe serving coffee and espresso beverages in downtown Seattle. However, the owners were not convinced this was a good idea, so Schultz left to start his own coffee shop chain called Il Giornale in 1986. A year later, the original owners of Starbucks decided to sell the Starbucks brand and retail locations to Schultz, who then merged his Il Giornale cafes with Starbucks and became CEO. Today, Starbucks has over 30,000 stores worldwide in over 78 markets. It is one of the world's most global and recognizable coffee brands. While no longer CEO, Schultz remains involved with Starbucks as Chairman Emeritus focusing on innovation and social impact initiatives. To help you prepare for your next trip to the drive-through, EdNews sought out expert opinions on the best Starbucks drinks. This list includes the most frequently recommended beverages from across 10 expert reviews. Be sure to let us know if you have a favorite we missed in the comments!
The Consensus Best Starbucks Drinks Across Expert Reviews
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte
For many of us, one of the first markers of autumn is the return of the Starbucks pumpkin spice latte. This indulgent beverage is a cocktail of warm flavors like pumpkin, vanilla, and cinnamon, all topped with Starbucks' signature house-made whipped cream.
You may be thinking that this drink is too overrated to deserve the top spot, but experts disagree. All the rave reviews have to be worth something, and that's not to mention the serious staying power of the PSL. As Coffee At Three points out, this drink is so popular, everyone knows what you mean by those three little letters. The PSL is a magical concoction of espresso, steamed milk, and a secret-recipe pumpkin spice sauce that creates a warm, inviting flavor explosion in your cup.
Tasting Table acknowledges the playful jabs often aimed at PSL lovers, with terms like “basic” being thrown around. But they argue that these critics haven't truly experienced the magic. One sip, they say, and those preconceived notions melt away, replaced by an appreciation for the deliciousness of this autumnal drink.
Thrillist joins the chorus, reminding us why the PSL has achieved iconic status. Sure, it might be a little on the sweet side (but hey, you can always customize the syrup level!), but that's part of its charm. The rich espresso pairs perfectly with the symphony of warm spices – pumpkin, nutmeg, cinnamon, and clove – creating a comforting, flavor-packed beverage that screams fall. So, the next time you hear someone scoff at the PSL, remind them: there's a reason this drink continues to reign supreme as the unofficial mascot of the season.
2. Brown Sugar Oat milk Shaken Espresso
This drink is a relatively new addition to the Starbucks menu, but it's made a big impression. Made with creamy oat milk and the warm sweetness of brown sugar syrup, this iced beverage became a near instant classic. As an added bonus, the standard recipe for this drink is 100% vegan. Whether you are lactose intolerant, plant-based, or just love the taste of oat milk, you won't have to double check that this order was made with the right milk.
Forget the struggle of endlessly stirring your iced coffee – Starbucks' Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso is here to be your fall savior, according to Taste of Home. This drink is so good, they admit it might become a daily habit, even if your wallet sheds a tear or two with each purchase. But hey, sometimes a little indulgence is worth it!
What's exactly in it? Tasting Table dives into the magic behind the perfect blend. Baristas combine ground cinnamon, Starbucks' signature Blonde espresso shots, and just the right amount of brown sugar syrup, then give it all a good shake. The result? A perfectly mixed, ready-to-go iced coffee that eliminates the need for those endless swirls with a green straw. They also highlight the nostalgic element of the brown sugar flavor – it's a sensory experience designed to evoke warm memories of baking cookies while sipping on your morning coffee.
3. Pink Drink
If coffee isn't your jam, this pastel beverage is about to become your new best friend. The Pink Drink began as a fan creation but grew enough popularity that it earned an official spot on the Starbucks menu. Made with refreshing coconut milk, strawberries, and a strawberry açaà base, it's definitely a summer must-try.
Even if you're a diehard coffee lover, sometimes it's nice to have something a little different. For those days where you're looking to switch it up, this Refresher offers a pretty pink alternative. According to Tasting Table, this refreshing concoction is a simple twist on their classic Strawberry Açaà Refresher – just add creamy coconut milk and a handful of fresh strawberries, and voila! The result? A light, fruity beverage that's bursting with flavor. Think of it as the taste of a pink Starburst in a cup, perfect for quenching your thirst on a scorching day.
Thrillist's reviewers admit it might not be their daily go-to, but they still appreciate the Pink Drink for its refreshing and sweet departure from their usual coffee routine. The bonus of fresh strawberries adds a fun, textural element that elevates the whole experience.
And it doesn't just taste great. Food Drink Life says this drink is a feast for the eyes (that pretty pink!) and a thirst-quencher for your taste buds. If you love fruity, sweet pink drinks, this is your summertime soulmate.
4. Caramel Frappuccino
Caramel lovers rejoice! This frozen beverage beautifully blends flavors of coffee and caramel to make a delicious Starbucks classic. Topped with an artful swirl of whipped cream and caramel drizzle, this drink is ready to be photographed for your Instagram story.
If you're looking for bold coffee flavor and minimal sweetness, run far away from this drink. But if you have a sweet tooth, you'll likely find the Caramel Frappuccino to be an instant favorite. According to Let's Eat Cake, this dreamy concoction is a symphony of sweetness – rich caramel flavor takes center stage, with a subtle hint of coffee peeking through the creamy richness. It's perfect for those who might not be die-hard coffee fans, but still appreciate a little caffeine kick (and a whole lot of sugar!). Just be prepared for a sugar rush!
Coffee At Three breaks down the drink's pedigree – it's the love child of two Starbucks classics, the caramel macchiato and the Frappuccino. While some might find it a touch too sweet, many devotees (including yours truly!) find themselves asking for extra caramel drizzle. Hey, to each their own!
Taste of Home reminds us why this Frappuccino remains a bestseller. Is it truly a complete experience if you haven't raced to the car to savor every last drop of that decadent caramel-drizzled whipped cream before it melts? This isn't just a drink; it's a full-on sensory experience and a delicious reminder of why Starbucks continues to reign supreme in the land of blended coffee treats.
5. Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
If you love the taste of coffee but don't mind when it's paired with a hint of sweetness, this drink is for you. Marrying the bold flavors of cold brew with the creamy sweetness of vanilla sweet cream, you'll get a strong hit of caffeine that goes down easy. It's the perfect order for a coffee aficionado that isn't quite ready to make the leap to black coffee.
If you crave the smooth, bold taste of cold brew but wish it wasn't quite so in-your-face, Starbucks' Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew is your new best friend, according to Delish. This drink is like a dream team – it packs all the satisfying punch of a classic cold brew, but adds a touch of creamy vanilla sweetness to smooth things out. Think of it as cold brew's cooler, more approachable cousin.
Taste of Home echoes this sentiment, praising drinks that don't overwhelm your taste buds. The Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew might sound fancy, but don't be fooled – it's a delightful combination of sweet and simple.
Thrillist points out the mesmerizing effect of watching the vanilla sweet cream slowly spread out across the dark, inky coffee – it's almost like a mini coffee magic show happening right in your cup! So, if you're looking for a cold brew experience that's both delicious and visually stimulating, the Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew is a must-try!
Editor's Choice: Chai Tea Latte
“Yes, Starbucks is a coffee shop first — but let's not forget it's got some decent tea options too. The Starbucks' Chai Tea Latte is still a favorite of mine when I'm in the mood for something other than coffee that's sweet and will give me a jolt,” says EdNews Editor-in-Chief Steve Fink. “It's not going to wake me up like a caffe latte might, but it's definitely a nice midday treat!”
Sources:
- Coffee At Three
- Delish
- Tasting Table
- Thrillist
- Let's Eat Cake
- Food Drink Life
- Taste of Home
- Homegrounds
- Insanely Good Recipes
- Buzzfeed
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. EdNews is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links.
What is the delish, listed above?
All time favorite and it kills me it’s seasonal! Irish Cream Cold Brew!! The chocolate malt powder seals the deal! It’s TO DIE FOR!! I LOVE IT!! #CoffeeAddict
My go to as well! Next time try with a splash of vanilla sweet cream added to it!
A hot grande Hazelnut Latte with coconut milk is my favorite drink from Starbucks.
Cinnamon Dolce latte (no whip)
I love their Frappuccino coffee drinks. My favorites are the Pumpkin Spice and the Caramel Brulee.
Maybe you should consider all the sugar-avoiders and come up with the 5 best SUGAR FREE drinks. All those listed are incredibly sweet & unhealthy.
Soy Latte with Cinnamon sprinkled on top!
Thank you, I'll try one
Benefactor of Starbucks
My favorite is PSL & Iced peach green tea. So disappointed that my Starbucks store has been out of the peach tea for the longest time.
Salted caramel mocha is my favorite. I pay extra when it isn’t available to have it specially made.
I get the Salted Caramel Mocha Latte just about every time. It's discontinued but they still have the ingredients. It is sooo delicious 😋
Caramel Brulee latte. Either hot ot frapp. Both are so good
Starbucks constantly drops any of the decent ones.
White Chocolate Macadamia Cold Brew was the latest.
Very disappointing........again.
Wow no flat white?
No thanks diabetes in a cup.
Try the iced shaken espresso with blonde roast and no sweetener. Has a chocolate flavor from the coffee without being loaded with sugar or creamers.
Caramel Brulee Latte, Toffee Nut Latte, discontinued Salted Caramel Mocha Frapaccino.
Try toffee nut frapp it's my fave!!
Pumpkin spice latte or the Carmelisuoius crunch Frappuccino.
Iced latte with pumps of caramel and white chocolate.
I Love the Carmel Ribbon crunch Venti, with Xtra Carmel Xtra Crunch !!! Yummy!!!! Next is the Cinnamon Dolce....LOVE LOVE
My 2 go tos are a dirty Chai latte with 2 shot of espresso, or a peppermint mocha with chocolate peppermint cold foam.
Skinny Vanilla Chai Latte
I love psl, caramel mocha and peppermint mocha. All my favorites hot or frappe
I also love the shaken espresso..I get mine with almond milk but they put too much ice in it. When I've finished it, I still have a cup full of ice!! 😳