Starbucks is undergoing a significant transformation this year, resulting in an anticipated reduction of approximately 30% in its menu offerings. This streamlining process has already commenced, with numerous beverages and food items being phased out.
In January, CEO Steve Niccol detailed this strategic shift, stating:
“In the coming months, you’ll see us begin to optimize our menu offerings, resulting in roughly a 30% reduction in both beverages and food.”
“It’s a little bit of everything is how I would describe it. Really what we focused on is what are the items that are not, frankly, selling a lot every day?”
As some beloved drinks begin to disappear, many Starbucks enthusiasts are expressing their disappointment over the loss of their favorites. Known for its innovative creations alongside classic staples, Starbucks has cultivated a diverse fanbase passionate about specific exclusive drinks.
To help address this, Delish.com has compiled a list of iconic Starbucks beverages that fans wish to see return to the menu. Here’s a closer look at these standout selections:
1) Oleato Caffe Latte with Oat Milk
The Oleato series, introduced last year, features a unique blend of coffee infused with extra virgin olive oil. The Oleato Caffe Latte with Oat Milk combines a light roast espresso with oat milk, creating a rich and subtly smooth drink experience.
2) Salted Caramel Mocha
Despite the growing popularity of caramel in various products, the Salted Caramel Mocha was retired in 2021. This indulgent beverage consisted of toffee nut syrup blended with mocha, topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a sprinkle of smoked sea salt.
3) Gingerbread Latte
This holiday favorite—comprising espresso, steamed milk, and gingerbread syrup—was a seasonal treat adored by fans. Although it was discontinued in 2019, Starbucks reintroduced the gingerbread flavor for the festive seasons of 2023 and 2024, featuring variations like the Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai and the Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte.
A former spokesperson remarked:
“The Gingerbread Latte is no longer on the Starbucks holiday menu in the US. Customers can enjoy five delicious and festive holiday beverages this year including the Peppermint Mocha, Toasted White Chocolate Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, Chestnut Praline Latte, and Eggnog Latte. Our partners (baristas) are happy to suggest one of these five other holiday beverages.”
4) S’mores Frappuccino
True to its name, this delectable drink captured the essence of s’mores, featuring espresso combined with milk, chocolate, and marshmallows, topped with whipped cream. Unfortunately, it was discontinued in 2020.
5) Dark Cherry Mocha
Initially launched as a limited edition for Valentine’s Day in both 2018 and 2019, the Dark Cherry Mocha blended traditional mocha made with espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate, enhanced with candied cherries and finished with whipped cream. This drink received glowing reviews from fans but has yet to return since its initial release.
While many other beloved Starbucks drinks could be ripe for a comeback, the current strategy of menu reduction means that even more favorites might depart before any potential returns. The evolving menu reflects changing consumer preferences and seeks to optimize offerings, ultimately aiming to enhance customer satisfaction.