I’ve been a Starbucks partner, and I’ve seen every trend come and go. From the unicorn frappuccino chaos of 2017 to the olive oil coffee experiment of 2023, I’ve made them all.
But here’s what most “best drinks” lists don’t tell you: the secret to great Starbucks drinks isn’t just knowing what’s popular. It’s understanding how the menu actually works behind the counter.
This isn’t just me ranking drinks by how pretty they look on Instagram. After making thousands of drinks and trying every possible combination, I know which ones are actually worth your money – and which ones are just hype.
I’ll show you how to order like someone who knows the system, so you get the best drinks for your $7 instead of falling for trendy disappointments.
New Starbucks Drinks in 2025: What’s Actually Worth Trying
Starbucks added some genuinely good drinks to their menu this year. Not all of them are just flashy gimmicks – some are actually game-changers.
The Cortado Cloud (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
What it is: Think of it as a fancy flat white with incredibly fluffy milk foam
This drink launched in January and it’s honestly impressive. Starbucks finally figured out how to make a drink that tastes like what you’d get at a high-end coffee shop.
Why it works:
- The milk foam is so thick and creamy it literally looks like a cloud
- It’s only 4 ounces, so you actually taste the espresso (unlike most Starbucks drinks that are mostly milk)
- Baristas actually got proper training on how to make this one
The bottom line: This is what happens when Starbucks takes coffee seriously instead of just making sugary drinks.
Matcha Créme Brûlée Latte (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
What it is: Matcha latte with a torched sugar top (yes, they actually use a torch)
Everyone’s posting this one on social media, and for once, the hype is justified – but not for the obvious reasons.
Why it’s actually good:
- Starbucks created a completely new matcha blend just for this drink
- The new matcha doesn’t taste like sweetened grass (finally!)
- It has real depth and flavor that works with the vanilla base
The torched sugar top is fun to watch, but the real win is that the matcha finally tastes good.
Protein Power Cold Brew Series (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
What it is: Cold brew coffee with plant-based protein that doesn’t get weird and clumpy
If you’ve ever tried adding protein powder to iced coffee, you know it usually turns into a gross, chunky mess. Starbucks solved this problem.
The Vanilla Protein Cold Brew is the best one:
- 15 grams of protein
- Only 140 calories
- The protein actually mixes properly (no weird texture)
- Perfect post-workout drink
Honey Lavender Oat Cortado (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
What it is: The hidden gem everyone’s sleeping on
While everyone’s distracted by the flashy drinks, this quiet little beauty is actually the best new addition to the menu.
Why it’s amazing:
- Made with blonde espresso (smoother, less bitter)
- House-made honey lavender syrup (not the usual artificial stuff)
- Creamy oat milk that doesn’t overpower the flavors
- Only 120 calories for a tall size
- Tastes like drinking a garden (in the best way possible)
Pro tip: This is one of the healthiest options on the current menu, and it doesn’t taste like diet food.
Best Starbucks Drinks Quick-Pick
| Category | Best Pick | Why It Wins |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Best Coffee | Flat White | Perfect espresso-to-milk ratio, consistently well-made |
| Best Cold Drink | Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso | Complex flavor, naturally dairy-free, energizing |
| Best Sweet Treat | White Chocolate Mocha | Decadent without being cloying, pairs perfectly with blonde espresso |
| Best Refresher | Paradise Drink | Tropical without artificial taste, gorgeous presentation |
| Best Tea | Iced Peach Green Tea Lemonade | Balanced sweetness, actually tastes like real peach |
| Best Secret Menu | Medicine Ball (Honey Citrus Mint Tea) | Soothing, complex, barista-approved |
| Best Frappuccino | Java Chip Frappuccino | Coffee-forward, satisfying texture, not too sweet |
| Best Non-Dairy | Iced Vanilla Oat Latte | Oat milk complements vanilla perfectly, creamy texture |
| Best Low-Cal | Iced Shaken Espresso | 100 calories for a venti, customizable, energizing |
| Best Seasonal | Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew | All the PSL flavor without the sweetness overload |
My All-Time Favorite Starbucks Drinks: The Ones I Actually Pay For
After making literally thousands of beverages, these are the Starbucks drinks I reach for when I’m off the clock. These aren’t just popular drinks at Starbucks – they’re the ones that showcase what our stores do best.
1. The Perfect Flat White
The flat white remains undefeated as the best coffee drink at Starbucks, and I’ll die on this hill. When made correctly (which, admittedly, varies by location), it’s the ideal showcase for espresso quality. The microfoam should be so integrated with the milk that it pours like wet paint, creating that signature white dot in the center.
Here’s what most customers don’t realize: a proper flat white uses ristretto shots, which are pulled shorter than regular espresso. This creates a sweeter, more concentrated flavor that cuts through the milk without bitterness. I’ve converted countless “I only drink sweet drinks” customers to flat white enthusiasts by explaining this difference.
My modification: I always ask for an extra shot in my tall. The standard two shots get a bit lost in the milk for my taste, and that third shot creates the perfect balance. With whole milk, you’re looking at about 170 calories – reasonable for something that tastes this indulgent.
2. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
This drink single-handedly changed how I think about iced coffee. The combination of blonde espresso, brown sugar syrup, cinnamon, and oat milk creates something that tastes like liquid cinnamon toast. But here’s the insider secret: the shaking isn’t just for show. It creates a foam cap that changes the entire texture and helps the flavors meld in a way that simply stirring never could.
I’ve experimented with every possible modification, and the original recipe is nearly perfect. The only change I make? Light ice. The standard ice amount leaves you with about 60% drink, 40% ice. With light ice, you get more of that glorious brown sugar oat milk mixture without dilution.
3. White Chocolate Mocha
The white chocolate mocha is the ultimate indulgence without crossing into sickeningly sweet territory. What makes this the best sweet treat at Starbucks is the balance – the white chocolate sauce is rich and creamy, but when paired with blonde espresso instead of signature, it becomes something magical. The blonde espresso’s subtle citrus notes cut through the sweetness perfectly.
Here’s a game-changer: ask for it at kids’ temperature (around 130°F instead of the standard 160°F). The lower temperature preserves the delicate white chocolate flavor and prevents that burnt sugar taste you sometimes get. Plus, you can actually drink it right away instead of waiting ten minutes.
4. Paradise Drink
This tropical stunner proves that Starbucks refreshers can be sophisticated. The Paradise Drink combines the Pineapple Passionfruit refresher with coconut milk, creating something that tastes like vacation in a cup. Unlike other refreshers that lean heavily on artificial flavors, this one actually tastes like real fruit.
The secret to the perfect Paradise Drink? Ask for it shaken extra hard. This emulsifies the coconut milk completely, preventing that separated layer you sometimes see. And here’s my personal twist: add one pump of vanilla. It rounds out the tropical flavors and makes it taste like a piña colada’s lighter, more refreshing cousin.
5. Iced Peach Green Tea Lemonade
This is hands down the best tea drink at Starbucks, and I’ll fight anyone who says otherwise. The balance between the earthy green tea, sweet peach, and tart lemonade is absolutely perfect. It’s sophisticated enough for tea purists but accessible enough for people who think they don’t like tea.
The key is the ratios. Most baristas do equal parts of everything, but the ideal mix is slightly more green tea, standard peach juice, and light lemonade. This lets the tea flavor shine while the peach and lemon play supporting roles. Pro tip: ask for no liquid cane sugar if you want the natural fruit sweetness to stand out.
6. Medicine Ball (Honey Citrus Mint Tea)
The Medicine Ball started as a secret menu item and became so popular that we had to add it officially as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea. This soothing blend of Jade Citrus Mint tea, Peach Tranquility tea, hot water, steamed lemonade, and honey is genuinely therapeutic when you’re feeling under the weather.
What most customers don’t know is that the magic is in the preparation. Both tea bags should steep together in half hot water for exactly four minutes – not three, not five. Then add the steamed lemonade and honey. Some baristas rush this process, but when made correctly, it’s like a warm hug for your throat.
7. Java Chip Frappuccino
In a world of overly sweet frappuccinos, the Java Chip stands out for actually tasting like coffee. The combination of coffee, mocha sauce, and chocolate chips creates layers of flavor and texture that make this the best frappuccino on the menu. It’s indulgent without being a sugar bomb.
My barista hack: ask for it made with one less pump of base and an extra shot. The reduced base means less artificial sweetness and a thicker consistency, while the extra shot ensures the coffee flavor doesn’t get lost. Also, ask for whipped cream on the bottom and top – trust me on this one.
8. Iced Vanilla Oat Latte
This simple combination showcases why oat milk has become the best non-dairy option at Starbucks. The natural sweetness and creamy texture of oat milk paired with vanilla creates something that doesn’t taste like a compromise – it tastes like the drink was designed this way from the start.
The trick is using blonde espresso and asking for one less pump of vanilla than standard. Oat milk is naturally sweet, so you need less syrup than with regular milk. The result is a perfectly balanced latte where you can taste the coffee, the oat milk’s subtle grain notes, and just enough vanilla to tie it together.
9. Iced Shaken Espresso
At just 100 calories for a venti, the iced shaken espresso is the best low-calorie option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The shaking aerates the espresso and creates a light foam that makes the drink feel more substantial than its calorie count suggests. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable.
My go-to modification: substitute the classic syrup for two pumps of white mocha and use almond milk. You’re still under 150 calories but with a much more complex flavor profile. The shaking helps distribute the white mocha evenly, something that doesn’t happen when you just add it to regular iced coffee.
10. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
This seasonal favorite proves that pumpkin drinks don’t have to be overwhelmingly sweet. The pumpkin cream cold brew gives you all the fall flavors you crave but in a more sophisticated package. The vanilla sweet cream infused with pumpkin sauce floats on top of unsweetened cold brew, creating distinct flavor layers.
The best part? You can recreate this year-round. Ask for cold brew with vanilla sweet cream and add two pumps of white mocha and one pump of cinnamon dolce to the sweet cream. It’s not exactly the same, but it’s close enough to satisfy those October cravings in July.
Viral TikTok & Secret Menu Winners That Actually Deserve the Hype
Not all viral drinks are created equal. I’ve made countless TikTok creations that are more hassle than they’re worth, but these five have earned their place in the secret menu hall of fame.
The Iced White Mocha with Vanilla Sweet Cream Foam and Caramel Drizzle
This viral sensation actually makes sense from a flavor perspective. The white mocha provides a rich, sweet base, the vanilla sweet cream foam adds textural interest, and the caramel drizzle provides a bitter-sweet contrast. It’s indulgent without being cloying.
The key to ordering this without annoying your barista: “Iced white mocha with vanilla sweet cream cold foam and caramel drizzle.” Simple, clear, and uses terms we recognize. Avoid saying “TikTok drink” – just describe what you want.
The “Cookies and Cream” Frappuccino
This isn’t officially on the menu, but it’s one of those secret menu drinks that every barista knows. It’s a white mocha frappuccino with java chips blended in. The result tastes remarkably like an Oreo milkshake.
Pro modification: ask for it made with heavy cream instead of whole milk. Yes, it’s indulgent, but the texture becomes impossibly rich and ice-cream-like. This is a dessert, not a coffee, so lean into it.
The Pink Drink Remixed
The original Pink Drink walked so this remix could run. Instead of the standard strawberry açaí with coconut milk, this version adds vanilla bean powder and a pump of white mocha. The result is strawberry shortcake in liquid form.
What makes this work: the vanilla bean powder adds genuine vanilla flavor (not just sweetness), while the white mocha provides a creamy backdrop that makes the whole drink taste more dessert-like. It’s one of those tasty Starbucks drinks that sounds excessive but actually balances perfectly.
The “Butterbeer” Latte
Harry Potter fans, rejoice. This secret menu creation combines cinnamon dolce syrup, white mocha, and caramel drizzle to create something that genuinely tastes like the Wizarding World’s famous beverage. Order it as a “cinnamon dolce latte with white mocha and caramel drizzle.”
The magic is in the ratios: for a grande, ask for 2 pumps cinnamon dolce and 2 pumps white mocha (instead of the standard 4). This prevents it from being too sweet while maintaining the butterscotch-like flavor profile.
The Matcha Pink Drink
This gorgeous layered beverage combines two of Starbucks’ most Instagram-worthy drinks. The bottom layer is the classic Pink Drink, while the top is iced matcha latte. The result is a stunning ombré effect that actually tastes as good as it looks.
The trick to maintaining the layers: order them separately. Get a Pink Drink with light ice, then ask for a “topper” of iced matcha made with coconut milk. Pour slowly over the back of a spoon if you’re going for maximum aesthetic impact.
Best Healthy & Low-Calorie Starbucks Picks That Don’t Taste Like Compromise
Finding good low-calorie drinks at Starbucks used to mean settling for black coffee or unsweetened tea. But the current menu offers genuinely delicious options that happen to be better for you. These are my go-to orders when I want flavor without the calorie bomb.
Iced Shaken Espresso (100 calories for a venti)
The shaken espresso series revolutionized healthy ordering at Starbucks. The shaking process creates natural foam and integrates the flavors so well that you need minimal sweetener. The standard recipe uses just a touch of classic syrup and a splash of 2% milk.
My optimization: substitute almond milk (saves 20 calories) and ask for one pump of sugar-free vanilla instead of classic. The result is a 80-calorie venti that tastes like a full-fat latte. The key is the shaking – it creates body and mouthfeel that makes you forget you’re drinking a “diet” beverage.
Cold Brew with Sugar-Free Vanilla and a Splash of Half-and-Half (25 calories for a grande)
This is my secret weapon for intermittent fasting days. The cold brew is naturally smooth and slightly sweet, the sugar-free vanilla adds flavor without calories, and just a splash of half-and-half provides enough creaminess to feel satisfying.
Why half-and-half over milk? Counterintuitively, you use less because it’s richer, so the total calories are lower than if you used 2% milk. Plus, the fat content helps with satiety – crucial when you’re trying to cut calories elsewhere.
Iced Peach Green Tea (60 calories for a grande)
This refreshing option proves that low-calorie doesn’t mean boring. The peach flavor is prominent without being artificial, and the green tea provides a gentle caffeine boost without jitters.
The insider move: ask for it half-sweetened. The peach juice adds natural sweetness, so you don’t need the full pump count. This cuts the calories to about 45 while maintaining full flavor. Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy peach tea that tastes like a 200-calorie drink but clocks in at just 60.
Americano Misto (35 calories for a grande with nonfat milk)
The Americano Misto (also called a Café Misto with espresso) is the best-kept secret for coffee lovers watching calories. It’s essentially an Americano with steamed milk instead of water for half the volume. You get the robust coffee flavor of an Americano with the creamy satisfaction of a latte.
My preferred build: grande Americano Misto with almond milk and one pump of cinnamon dolce. Total damage? About 50 calories, but it tastes like a full-sugar cinnamon latte. The cinnamon dolce syrup is particularly effective here because its warm spice notes complement the coffee without requiring much sweetness.
Passion Tango Tea with Sugar-Free Vanilla (0 calories)
This might be the most underrated drink on the entire Starbucks menu. The Passion Tango tea is naturally fruity and slightly tart, and adding sugar-free vanilla creates a flavor profile reminiscent of berry pie filling. It’s caffeine-free, making it perfect for afternoon cravings.
The game-changer: ask for it shaken with a splash of coconut milk. This adds maybe 15 calories but transforms it into something that tastes like a liquid dessert. I’ve served this to friends who had no idea it was essentially a diet drink.
Best Starbucks Kid-Friendly & Caffeine-Free Drinks That Adults Love Too
These beverages prove that caffeine-free doesn’t mean flavor-free. Whether you’re ordering for kids or just avoiding caffeine yourself, these drinks deliver on taste without the buzz.
Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
The Vanilla Bean Frappuccino is essentially a vanilla milkshake in coffee shop clothing. Made with vanilla bean powder, milk, and ice, it’s naturally caffeine-free and universally loved. What makes it special is the real vanilla bean specks throughout – it’s not just vanilla syrup.
Parent hack: ask for it made with half the vanilla powder and add a pump of caramel or toffee nut. This reduces the sugar while adding complexity that makes it interesting for adult palates too. My daughter calls it her “sparkle drink” because of the vanilla specks.
Steamed Apple Juice with Cinnamon Dolce
This drink is autumn in a cup, available year-round. The steamed apple juice becomes almost cider-like, and the cinnamon dolce syrup adds warm spice notes without being too sweet. It’s like drinking apple pie filling in the best way.
The upgrade: ask for whipped cream and caramel drizzle on top. Yes, it adds calories, but it transforms a simple steamed juice into a legitimate dessert beverage that rivals any coffee drink for satisfaction.
Iced Passion Tango Tea Lemonade
This vibrant purple-pink drink is naturally caffeine-free and tastes like liquid candy without being overly sweet. The hibiscus and lemongrass in the Passion Tango blend create a complex flavor that appeals to sophisticated palates while still being kid-friendly.
My trick for making it extra special: add strawberry purée. This turns it into a fruity slush that’s basically a healthy(ish) alternative to juice. Kids love watching the colors swirl together, and adults appreciate that it’s mostly tea and real fruit.
Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Starbucks’ hot chocolate is genuinely excellent – made with real chocolate mocha sauce, not powder. The standard build is quite sweet, so I recommend asking for one less pump of mocha for kids (they won’t notice) or trying it with white mocha for a different flavor profile.
The adult version: add a pump of peppermint, cinnamon dolce, or even caramel. These additions create more complex flavors that make it feel less like a kids’ drink and more like a legitimate dessert beverage.
Caramel Apple Spice
This is the most underordered drink at Starbucks, and I don’t understand why. It’s steamed apple juice with cinnamon dolce syrup, topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle. Think of it as apple cider’s more indulgent cousin.
The optimization: ask for half cinnamon dolce syrup and add a pump of vanilla. This creates a more balanced flavor that isn’t quite as sweet but has more depth. It’s become my go-to drink for cozy evenings when I don’t want caffeine.
The Real Truth About Ordering at Starbucks in 2025
After years behind the counter and countless experiments with our menu, here’s what I wish every customer knew: the best Starbucks drink is the one customized to your exact preferences. Our menu is designed to be a starting point, not a limitation.
The drinks I’ve shared aren’t just popular Starbucks beverages – they’re templates for discovering what you actually enjoy. That flat white I swear by? You might prefer it with oat milk and an extra shot. The viral TikTok creation? Maybe you’ll find it perfect with half the sweetness.
The secret to ordering like an insider isn’t memorizing complicated recipes or following trends. It’s understanding the building blocks: espresso types (blonde is lighter and sweeter, signature is bolder), milk options (each adds different flavors and textures), and syrup combinations (start with less – you can always add more).
Most importantly, remember that your barista wants to make you something you’ll love. We’ve seen every modification imaginable, and the good ones genuinely enjoy the creativity. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request adjustments. The only bad Starbucks order is one you don’t enjoy.
Whether you’re seeking the best coffee drinks at Starbucks, hunting for low-calorie options, or just want to try something new, approach the menu with curiosity rather than intimidation. Start with drinks that sound appealing, then tweak them until they’re perfect for you. That’s how every great Starbucks drink – from the flat white to the Pink Drink – was born.
The best drinks at Starbucks aren’t necessarily the most popular or the most photographed. They’re the ones that make your day a little better, whether that’s a perfectly pulled espresso or a shamefully sweet frappuccino. Find yours, own it, and enjoy every sip.
FAQs
What is the most popular drink at Starbucks in 2025?
The Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso continues to dominate sales, followed closely by the classic Caramel Macchiato and Pink Drink. However, popularity varies significantly by region and season.
What’s the best Starbucks drink for someone who doesn’t like coffee?
The Iced Peach Green Tea Lemonade or Pink Drink are excellent coffee-free options with broad appeal. For hot drinks, try the London Fog Tea Latte or Caramel Apple Spice.
How can I make my favorite Starbucks drink healthier?
Start by reducing syrup pumps (try half), switching to sugar-free syrups, choosing lighter milk options (almond or nonfat), and asking for less or no whipped cream. The mobile app’s nutrition calculator helps you see the impact of modifications.
What’s the strongest coffee drink at Starbucks?
A Venti Blonde Roast brewed coffee has the most caffeine (475mg). For espresso drinks, a Venti Iced Shaken Espresso with an extra shot gives you 5 shots total (375mg caffeine).
Are secret menu drinks real?
While Starbucks doesn’t have an official “secret menu,” baristas can make any drink using available ingredients. Always order by describing the ingredients rather than using made-up names.
What’s the best sweet drink at Starbucks that isn’t too sweet?
Try the Iced White Chocolate Mocha with blonde espresso and one less pump of syrup. The blonde espresso’s natural sweetness means you need less added sugar while maintaining a dessert-like flavor.