Standing in line at Starbucks, staring at that intimidating menu board with over 80,000 possible drink combinations, sounds familiar? As someone who’s spent way too much money perfecting my Starbucks order over the past decade, I totally get that overwhelming feeling. Here’s a shocking stat: 73% of people order the same drink every time, missing out on amazing drinks to try at Starbucks!
After years of experimentation (and plenty of caffeine-fueled mistakes), I’ve discovered my absolute favorite Starbucks drinks that I’m excited to share. I’ve tested, sipped, and re-ordered these Starbucks drinks enough to know they deserve a spot on your go-to list. After trying these 12 drinks, I’m pretty sure you’ll never look at the Starbucks menu the same way again!
Hot Coffee Drinks That Never Disappoint
White Chocolate Mocha
If you’re into drinks that feel like comfort in a cup, this is it. The combo of bold espresso, creamy milk, and white chocolate is spot on. I’ve found that asking for one less pump of syrup makes it taste balanced instead of overly sweet.
How to order:
- Ask for a White Chocolate Mocha with one less pump of syrup
- Always request whipped cream on top for perfect flavor balance
- Try with almond milk for a nuttier taste profile
Caramel Macchiato
Like having dessert and coffee simultaneously with vanilla syrup, steamed milk, espresso, and gorgeous caramel drizzle. Don’t stir immediately, taste the different layers for the full popular Starbucks drinks experience.
Pro tips:
- Order in a tall size if you’re caffeine sensitive
- Don’t stir right away to enjoy the layered flavors
- Ask for extra caramel drizzle if you love sweet drinks
Peppermint Mocha
My holiday hero is with a chocolate and peppermint combination that screams pure comfort. Even though it’s seasonal, you can order it year-round by requesting a mocha with peppermint syrup.
Customization options:
- Available year-round by asking for mocha + peppermint syrup
- Perfect with whipped cream and chocolate shavings
- Great with oat milk for extra creaminess
Chai Tea Latte
Perfect when cutting back on caffeine but craving something warm with complex spices like cinnamon and cardamom. I always request oat milk for that creamy, slightly sweet base that complements the good Starbucks drinks perfectly.
Best modifications:
- Ask for oat milk instead of regular milk for better flavor
- Try a “dirty chai” by adding one shot of espresso
- Request half pumps of chai concentrate for less sweetness
Cold Drinks Perfect for Any Season
Iced Caramel Cloud Macchiato
Features lighter, fluffier cloud foam that’s like drinking a coffee cloud with more subtle caramel flavor. Perfect best drinks from Starbucks, a choice for hot summer days when you want something refreshing yet satisfying.
How to order:
- Ask for an Iced Caramel Cloud Macchiato
- Request extra cloud foam for the full experience
- Try vanilla sweet cream instead of regular milk
Cold Brew with Vanilla Sweet Cream
Smooth, non-bitter drink with amazing cascading cream effect that converted me from hot coffee snob to a cold brew enthusiast. One of the best coffee drinks at Starbucks for those seeking less acidic alternatives to regular iced coffee.
Why it’s amazing:
- 67% less acidic than regular iced coffee
- Beautiful cascading cream visual effect
- Perfect for sensitive stomachs
Strawberry Açaí Refresher
Provides caffeine boost without coffee taste, featuring fun freeze-dried strawberries for texture. I love this good drink at Starbucks option when meeting friends, ask for lemonade instead of water for extra zing.
Customization tips:
- Substitute lemonade for water for a tartier taste
- Ask for extra strawberries for more texture
- Try with coconut milk for a creamier version
Pink Drink
Strawberry Açaí Refresher mixed with coconut milk creates a pretty pink color and creamy tropical texture. This most popular drink at Starbucks social media sensation, actually tastes as good as it looks in photos.
What makes it special:
- Instagram-worthy pink color from coconut milk
- Subtle tropical flavor profile
- Perfect balance of sweet and refreshing
Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
Rich molasses-like sweetness from brown sugar syrup pairs amazingly with creamy oat milk. The shaking creates lovely foam, making this best drinks to get at Starbucks feel special without overwhelming sweetness.
Pro ordering tips:
- The shaking process creates natural foam
- Brown sugar adds depth without being too sweet
- Oat milk provides a creamy texture without heaviness
Premium Specialty Drinks Worth the Splurge
Matcha Green Tea Latte
Packed with antioxidants providing sustained energy without coffee crashes, featuring earthy yet slightly sweet flavors. The gorgeous green color always makes me feel like I’m making healthy choices with this wellness-focused drink.
Health benefits:
- High in antioxidants and natural energy
- No coffee crash like traditional espresso drinks
- Sustained energy boost throughout the day
Nitro Cold Brew
Nitrogen infusion creates an incredibly smooth, creamy texture, similar to drinking pure silk. This good coffee at Starbucks proves that premium drinks don’t always need syrups and whipped cream to be exceptional.
What makes it special:
- Nitrogen infusion creates natural creaminess
- No added dairy needed for smooth texture
- Cascading visual effect when poured
Pumpkin Spice Latte
The controversial classic that’s actually one of the most popular Starbucks drinks for valid reasons during the fall season. That perfect combination of pumpkin pie spices with espresso tastes like comfort and cozy sweaters in liquid form.
Best modifications:
- Ask for almond milk and light whip to reduce sweetness
- Available from late August through the fall season
- Try the iced version for warmer autumn days
Pro Tips for Your Perfect Starbucks Experience
After years of trial and error, I’ve learned that the best coffee from Starbucks comes down to knowing your preferences and not being afraid to customize. Don’t hesitate to ask for different milk alternatives; oat milk adds creaminess, almond milk adds nuttiness, and coconut milk brings tropical vibes.
Most drinks come with standard syrup pumps, but you can always ask for more or less. I usually go with one less pump because I prefer drinks less sweet. Baristas are coffee enthusiasts themselves, so don’t be shy about asking for Starbucks recommendations or modifications!
Speaking of great style choices, I recently saw some absolutely stunning Sabrina Carpenter tour outfits that gave me major fashion inspiration, just like how the right Starbucks drink can set your whole mood for the day! Temperature matters too, so specify your preferences – I always ask for hot drinks “extra hot” since I’m a slow drinker.
Closing Thoughts
After trying hundreds of combinations, these twelve best Starbucks drinks represent the absolute cream of the crop. Whether you need morning fuel or afternoon treats, there’s something here for every taste and mood. The best Starbucks orders achieve that perfect harmony between coffee, milk, and flavors that makes every sip worth it.
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone; some of my greatest favorite Starbucks drinks discoveries came from trying something completely new! Share your own Starbucks drink ideas in the comments below because I’m always hunting for my next coffee obsession. What’s your go-to order that keeps you coming back for more?
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I spent the last 7+ years helping people discover what truly works for them in fashion and beauty. After styling clients in boutique fashion houses and testing countless skincare products myself, I learned one simple truth: the best style is the one that makes you feel confident every single day. On my blog, I share the same honest tips I give my friends: simple, practical, and a little inspiring.
