Top Starbucks coffee drinks you need to try

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Starbucks has cemented its status as a cornerstone of coffee culture around the globe. Its menu is a testament to the company’s dedication to coffee, offering a wide variety of delicious that satisfy both traditionalists and those seeking novel flavors. Learn what all the fuss is about with this collection of the best Starbucks coffee drinks.

A Starbucks coffee cup surrounded by coffee beans on a wooden surface represents some of the best Starbucks coffee drinks.
Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Adding to its allure, Starbucks continuously innovates, frequently introducing seasonal specialties and limited-time offerings to its lineup. This ever-evolving menu ensures that there’s always something new and exciting to try, making each visit a unique opportunity to explore the vast world of coffee. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic espresso or a latte that heralds the arrival of a season, Starbucks has a drink that will elevate your coffee experience.

Types of coffee at Starbucks

Starbucks’ coffee lineup is diverse, covering everything from their signature espresso to their unique cold brew selections. It’s easy to find the perfect sip regardless of taste preferences.

Starbucks’ menu offers a wide variety of coffee, from daily sips like Pike Place Roast, which is smooth and versatile, to single-origin coffees that change with the seasons. Many of these showcase flavors from specific geographical regions, whether that’s fruity notes from Africa or earthy vibes from Latin America. 

Their espresso is all about intensity and depth, serving as the backbone for their espresso-based drinks. It’s darkly roasted, offering that classic Starbucks bold flavor.

On the cooler side, Starbucks’ cold brew coffee takes a different approach. The cold brew is made by steeping ground beans for hours in cold water. This method produces a smooth, rich coffee that’s less acidic and incredibly refreshing. It’s a go-to for those hot days or for anyone who prefers a softer, chilled coffee experience.

Many of Starbucks’ coffee products come in decaffeinated varieties, including Espresso Roast, House Roast and Pike Place Roast. This ensures you can always enjoy your favorite Starbucks coffee drinks sans the caffeine boost.

“My go-to Starbucks order is usually a breve latte, which is a regular latte made with half-and-half. It’s so silky and thick. If I feel like treating myself, I will add a pump of caramel, vanilla or brown sugar syrup, but it’s delicious on its own. I also love trying the seasonal drinks from time to time, especially the flavored cold brews with the thick layer of luscious cold foam.”

— Susannah Brinkley Henry, Feast + West
A best Starbucks cold brew coffee on a table with a person sitting in the background inside a cafe.
Photo credit: Depositphotos.

15 best Starbucks coffee drinks

Explore the top Starbucks coffee drinks, from classics to seasonal hits. Find your new favorites below.

Caffè americano

A robust blend of espresso and hot water, the caffè americano offers a rich, deep flavor with a smooth finish. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the essence of espresso but prefer a lighter, more sippable experience.

Caffè mocha

Combining the boldness of espresso with the richness of chocolate, topped with steamed milk and a bit of whipped cream, the caffè mocha is a comforting indulgence. Mochas are a delightful mix for those who love their coffee with a sweet and luxurious twist.

Caramel macchiato

The caramel macchiato, known for its creamy vanilla-flavored foam and decadent caramel drizzle, is a beautifully layered drink that combines espresso with steamed milk. It’s a favorite for those who crave a sweet, sophisticated blend.

Flat white

With a velvety texture that comes from microfoam — steamed milk with delicate, tiny bubbles — and a solid espresso base, the flat white is praised for its rich, intense coffee flavor balanced by creaminess.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

The quintessential fall beverage, the Pumpkin Spice Latte combines espresso, steamed milk and the warming flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove. It’s like a cozy autumn day in a cup.

Espresso

The purest coffee experience, espresso is a concentrated form of coffee served in shots. It’s known for its complex flavors and aromatic depth, perfect for those who appreciate the art of coffee.

Vanilla latte

A smooth blend of espresso, steamed milk and vanilla syrup, the vanilla latte offers a comforting warmth and a gentle hint of sweetness, making it a soothing choice for vanilla lovers.

Nitro cold brew

Cold-brew coffee is infused with nitrogen to create a silky, smooth texture and a frothy head, similar to stout beer. Its cold temperature and velvety feel make it a refreshing and innovative coffee experience.

Peppermint mocha

A festive holiday favorite, this drink combines espresso, steamed milk, mocha sauce and peppermint-flavored syrup, topped with whipped cream and dark chocolate curls. It’s like a joyous celebration in a cup.

White chocolate mocha

For those who adore the creamy sweetness of white chocolate, this drink marries it with espresso and steamed milk, topped with whipped cream. It’s a rich, sweet treat with a comforting warmth.

Caffè latte

A classic coffeehouse staple, the caffè latte features a shot of espresso in steamed milk, lightly topped with foam. It’s beloved for its smooth, balanced flavor, perfect for any time of day.

Espresso con panna

A simple yet decadent coffee treat, this is essentially a shot of espresso topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. It’s a delightful mix of bold coffee and creamy sweetness.

Iced coffee

Perfect for hot days, iced coffee is a refreshing, straightforward drink made by pouring cold coffee over ice. It’s versatile and can be customized with various syrups and milks.

Mocha frappuccino

A blended ice drink combining coffee, milk and mocha sauce, topped with whipped cream. It’s a favorite for those who love their coffee cold, sweet and with a hint of chocolate indulgence.

Iced shaken espresso

A vibrant, chilled coffee drink that’s both refreshing and robust. Espresso shots are shaken with ice — and sometimes sweeteners and milk — to create a frothy, refreshing beverage perfect for espresso lovers looking for a cool twist.

Iced coffee in a plastic cup with a Starbucks logo, set on a table with a larger Starbucks logo in the background, is among the best Starbucks coffee drinks.
Photo credit: Depositphotos.

“I’m a fan of iced coffee or cold brew. As long as it has coffee and ice, I’m happy; add cold foam, and I am over the moon.”

— Laura Sampson, Downsizing Dinner

The foam on top

There you have it. 15 delicious Starbucks coffee drinks that run the gamut from rich and indulgent to light and frothy. Next time you stop by your local Starbucks, be sure to try one of these tasty beverages for yourself.

Kristen Wood is a coffee lover, food writer, recipe developer, cookbook author, photographer, and creator of MOON and spoon and yum, a vegetarian food blog. She is the author of Fermented Hot Sauce Cookbook, Vegetarian Family Cookbook, and Hot Sauce Cookbook for Beginners. Her work has been featured in various print and online publications, including Elle, Martha Stewart, Chicago Sun-Times, Pure Wow, Healthline, and many more.

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