In a surprising move late last year, newly-appointed CEO Brian Niccol unveiled significant alterations to the Starbucks product lineup, aiming to reduce the menu by a substantial 30%. As we eagerly anticipate the revelation of which beloved beverages will be phased out, let’s take a moment to reminisce about the unique drinks and treats that have faded into obscurity over the years. Here are the 9 discontinued Starbucks menu items that we dearly miss:
1. The Oleato Caffé Latte With Oat Milk: Initially introduced alongside the Oleato Golden Foam Iced Shaken Espresso With Toffee Nut in early 2024, this oat milk variant quietly vanished from the menu the same year due to lackluster customer interest.
2. Salted Caramel Mocha: Despite its fall debut, the Salted Caramel Mocha struggled to compete with the Pumpkin Spice Latte and was subsequently removed from menus in 2021, featuring a blend of toffee nut and mocha syrups.
3. Dark Cherry Mocha: Starbucks briefly offered the Dark Cherry Mocha post-Valentine’s Day, combining espresso, mocha sauce, candied cherries, steamed milk, whipped cream, and sprinkles before discontinuing it. Fans expressed disappointment at its departure, with some expressing hopes for a return.
4. Gingerbread Latte: A holiday favorite for nearly two decades, the Gingerbread Latte was discontinued in 2019, making a brief return in 2023 alongside other gingerbread variations, yet has not resurfaced since.
5. S’mores Frappuccino: The decadent S’mores Frappuccino quietly exited menus in 2018, boasting a luxurious blend of coffee, milk, chocolate, marshmallow, and whipped cream.
6. Oprah Chai: Branded after the media mogul herself, the Oprah Chai debuted over a decade ago, featuring a black tea blend infused with cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. Despite mixed reviews, some customers preferred its spicier profile over the current Chai option.
7. Raspberry Mocha: The discontinuation of the Raspberry syrup led to the disappearance of the adored Raspberry Mocha, lamented by fans for its unique flavor.
8. Birthday Cake Frappuccino: A festive delight that captured hearts until its discontinuation in 2016, the Birthday Cake Frappuccino remains a cherished memory for many.
9. Eggnog Latte: While Starbucks employees revealed dwindling demand for the Eggnog Latte, its eventual removal left a gap in the holiday lineup.
Let’s hope that these iconic Starbucks offerings may one day make a triumphant return!
Even though they personally adored the seasonal drink, they lamented that it was not a popular choice, proved to be quite troublesome to prepare, came with a high price tag, and occupied significant space in their limited dairy fridges. All I can emphatically declare is this: Brian Niccol, under no circumstances should you even entertain the idea of modifying or eliminating my beloved Pistachio Latte.
