Listen, sometimes my Fifty Two Shades of Shay are more serious and sometimes, they’re just plain silly…but they’re always representative of a shade of my life…and the fact that I’ve been doing these shades every week now for 18 months and haven’t done a post on Starbucks is just plain shameful.
Hello, my name is Shay and I’m a Starbucks addict.
I don’t know what it is…but there is just something about pulling in that drive-thru and leaving with one of their cups that makes my heart happy.
I have discovered that having a drink and reading a magazine during the 30 minute daily carpool line is one of my favorite parts of the day.
And if I don’t get one while I’m waiting in the carpool line…I’ll have one while I’m at my desk working…
…or I’ll have one while I’m in the car driving.
I’m afraid that I’ve passed this addiction down to my sweet kids…they love getting breakfast, a special treat or a drink at Starbucks too.
My sweet girl loves her some Starbucks.
What can I say? It’s a Shade of Shay.
I always order the same things depending on the time of year and the weather…when in doubt, a Caramel Macchiato is always my go-to drink of choice. Here are my favorite drinks…
1. A non-fat Caramel Macchiato
2. A non-fat Pumpkin Spice Latte, no whip
3. An iced unsweetened green tea
4. The Blonde Roast with a splash of cream
5. A Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino Light
I didn’t have my first Starbucks drink until I was in college…I started selling insurance when I was 19 (that was my real job for 12 years)…and I needed something to perk me up in the afternoons, so I walked to a Starbucks nearby for coffee or tea…and became an addict. I still get just as happy about a drink today as I did way back then :).
I don’t drink sodas or juice…coffee and tea are my beverages of choice besides water.
Listen, I know I’m not alone with this great passion. Tell me what you like to order when you go! Maybe I should try something new???? There is a secret Starbucks menu of drinks they can make that isn’t published…if you order one of those, I’d love to know what it is!
Starbucks addicts…I want to hear from you ;). I’d love some new suggestions (things I could order my kids too!).
Happy Tuesday friends…have some coffee in a white cup with green writing and think of me.
And don’t forget to check out my foodie blog today…
…it’s my Italian Brisket Sandwiches for supper!
Katie Neff says
Try a Blendicano! 1-2 shots of espresso, 2 pumps of your fav sugar free syrup (vanilla is really good), venti scoop ice, soy/skim whichever you prefer, blended twice. Perfection!
Tricia says
Vanilla bean frappucino is my favorite!
Megan Davis says
I'm a Starbucks addict too! My favorite winter drink is a White Peppermint Mocha. You have to try!
Andrea says
I am addicted to Starbucks. My favorite drink is a Non-Fat French Vanilla Latte. In a Grande it is 2 pumps of Vanilla and 2 pumps of Hazelnut.
Julianna says
I just love a nonfat latte with peppermint around the holidays. Tastes like Christmas!
Dani {Adventures of a Pharm Girl} says
I loooooovvvveee Starbucks!!! I have seriously spent the last $5 I've had on a drink from there several times hahah. I usually get the hazelnut mocciato or the cafe mocha. Seriously. Soooo good!! If this whole pharm school thing doesn't work out I'll just open a Starbucks and live in it hahah 😉 thanks for sharing!!
Kristin says
Sometimes I get a pumpkin spice latte with chocolate syrup. So yummy and tastes just like pumpkin chocolate chip bread!
Tab & Erika says
You are so right!! Starbucks is definitely one of your "shades". 🙂 And…as hard as this is to believe when I started drinking coffee last year (and my cup was basically cream/milk) I was so excited about getting my first Starbucks coffee. It tasted horrible (probably because it wasn't all cream/milk). 🙂
The Martinez Family says
I'm a Starbucks addict, too! Some of my favorites are raspberry mocha, toffee nut lattes and chi tea lattes (w no water). Would love to learn more about the secret menu!
Ashly says
Hot apple chai! They don't post it…. But you can ask for it and it is great!!! Be prepared, it will smell like fall goodness in your car. 🙂
Nona C. says
I may or may not frequent our Starbucks for a Grande Chai Tea with 1/2 pumps of pumpkin spice. (As soon as P/S is available until the season ends. Lol!
Ashley says
I LOVE a vanilla chai tea latte! Soo good!
Jenn Getts says
From one Starbucks addict to another you must try my two favorites:
Skinny iced caramel macchiato upside down! And/or skinny cinnamon dolce latte (it's like a cinnamon roll in a cup)—perfection!!!
Anonymous says
Your kids might like an iced sweetened passion tea….it's caffeine free & such a treat 🙂 I love the PSL and the caramel brûlée latte when it's out at Christmas time!
marielazs says
My favorite used to be the Skinny Vanilla Latte. Now I love the Vanilla Macchiato. And I think the PSL tastes sooo much better with the whip 😉
Mindy says
So I am not a big Starbucks fan. I am 37 years old and still don't like coffee or tea! Call me weird. However, my husband loves coffee! We were at Target the other day (that has a Starbucks inside) and they were giving away free samples of the Cinnamon Roll Frappuccinos. OMG! Was amazing! I think I am hooked now. They said it was from the secret menu. Any other non-coffee/tea suggestions for me would be great! I usually only have one Coke Zero at lunch time and that is it. And yes, I am up at 5:30am each morning, work at home and have a 4th grader! BTW – still not even sure what a Frappuccino is!
Natalie Zambreski says
There really is nothing quite like treating yourself to an incredible cup of coffee!
Now I'm going to have to stop at Starbucks on the way to work! I love their skinny vanilla latte and at Christmas I love anything with a little bit of peppermint. I remember as a kid loving their hot cocoa, so rich and yummy! I figure if that's how I choose to indulge, that's pretty good!
The Andersons says
I love me some Starbucks!! I always get a venti nonfat Salted Caramel Mocha with half the syrup. During the summer they don't have the "salt" part but it's still just as good!!
Rosa Dunn says
What about the Caramel Brulee Latte??? My favorite Starbucks drink of all time!
Brenda says
From the secret menu: Mix and Match Frappucino!! Sounds like something you should try!
Rhiannon says
The mocha cream frappacino has no coffee in it, so no caffeine. My kids love it 🙂 Tastes like a frozen hot chocolate.
kimm atwood says
Love this! Hands down my favorite favorite is the peach green tea lemonade,,,and now I'm sad because it's gone for the season. For coffee obviously this girl loves PSL but I also love the white mocha and during the holidays I get the peppermint mocha. My kids love the very berry hibiscus and the Valencia orange refresher. Happy Tuesday
Anonymous says
Passion fruit tea with a shot of lemonade and apple juice
Bonnie says
A double dirty chai with no water– a chai with 2 shots of espresso…you get the benefit of caffeine without the caffeine crash. Try it, thank me later.
Marsha says
Warm milk with vanilla is a good one for kids (and also for adults who don't like hot chocolate). They warm the milk just like they do for a latte, and then they add a pump or two of vanilla syrup, depending on how much vanilla flavor & sweetness you like. It's awesome!!
angel grandma says
Grande two pump hazelnut non fat no whip mocha! Hubby makes at home however when he is traveling Starbucks makes a duplicate!
Anonymous says
I have never even tasted coffee so I know nothing about any of those drinks. I have googled latte and frappacino. I do love the iced green tea. And I like their protein box. Kinda boring but it works for me.
My kids love the Gouda and bacon breakfast sand which but they are sold out all the time. My kids have tried the cotton candy frappacino, cookie frappacino and the chocolate chip frappacino. They like the cookie one best.
Stacy P. says
My Starbucks addiction for YEARS was a non fat no whip hot chocolate (I don't care for coffee). But after reading over the above suggestions, I may have to give the coffee another try!
(I've since given up the hot chocolate….I miss it, but my thighs are thanking me!)
Amanda Spangler says
I love a nonfat vanilla latte! 🙂 It's my fav! My girls get the cotton candy frappuccino. It's another one of their secret menu items 😉
Lauren says
In the summer I love: Caramel Frap Light or iced coffee with sugar free hazelnut or caramel and nonfat milk.
In the fall/winter, I love coffee with nonfat milk & 2 pumps of sugar-free vanilla + 1 pump of pumpkin spice OR a skinny cinnamon dolce latte! I do love nonfat PSL's but try not to have them too often. Around Christmas I will indulge in a nonfat peppermint mocha! LOVE STARBUCKS! 🙂
Claire says
Shay, the Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher is amazing. Real blueberries in it, and the best part…it has caffeine!!
Emily says
I've been a mocha person ever since I lived in London (have you ever been to a Paul coffee shop in London? If not, PLEASE put it on your list of places to go next time you're there 😉 ). I love a Starbucks mocha made with half white chocolate. 🙂
Dena Wofford says
I love the non-fat cinnamon dolce latte.. it is my go to drink! !
mailynmykelle says
I have been addicted(!!) to their Blackberry Mojito Green Tea Lemonade… yum!!!
Cheri says
I had my first one at the original Starbucks in Seattle when I became a Gamma.
Cafe Mocha is what our daughter turned me on to. It taste like a coffee/cocoa and that is usually my go to drink until pumpkin spice comes out and then peppermint mocha. Where is this secret menu they have?
Emmy says
There are fewer things that put me more into the Christmas spirit than walking into Starbucks and getting that coveted festive, red cup for the first time! 🙂 I'm pretty standard in terms of what I get…in the summer it's an iced caramel latte (very light on the ice, I hate when it starts to melt and gets all watered down), pumpkin spice latte in the fall, gingerbread latte in the winter.
Kelly @ Familiar Joy says
I love this post and could have written it word for word. There is something special about Starbucks. And living in Seattle, we have one on every block, I think! ? I love a good caramel macchatio or PSL. But, I tried a new drink this year, and it's become my go-to. It will save you a little money (and calories–bonus!). Try an Americano with either white chocolate flavoring or pumpkin spice flavoring and then ask for "light cream". I'm really picky about my drinks and this one is amazing!! My kids always get a peppermint hot chocolate or the milks that are in the refrigerated section. Sometimes they just get an iced water and think it's the coolest thing ever! Ha!
Heather says
My new favorite from Starbucks is the Oprah chai tea latte. Delicious hot or iced!
meg says
Those ecards were hilarious!!! And I'm obsessed w/ Starbucks too. Love the pumpkin spice latte (all non fat/no whip) until Thanksgiving Day, then I move to a peppermint mocha through Christmas, then my normal drink is a nonfat vanilla or regular latte or carmel macchiato! I was a little worried you'd get a mean comment about taking your kids (Starbucks is my kids' love language, so I'm right there w/ you! My 10-year-old niece actually just asked me for a Starbucks gift card as part of her bday gift!) so I'm glad other people are feeling the Starbucks love. 🙂
Ann says
In my mid to late 40's after being a stay at home mom for 20 years, I needed to find a job that i could work part time and still get benefits. I worked 4 am to 10 am. I was able to get insurance for my family and still be able to participate in my kids' school things and afternoon activities. They are a wonderful company to work for!!
My favorite drink. Iced Venti Green Tea with no water and one splenda.
If you go through the drive thru with your dog, ask for a puppy latte. It's a short cup filled with whipped cream. My dog gets so excited when I hit the drive thru!!!
Amy says
My absolute favorite drink of all times is their Vanilla Chai Latte. I'd chose it over a PSL any day. It has just the right amount of spice, but the vanilla really tames it down. SOOOOOO yummy! Don't forget the vanilla, though – that's the key!
I also really love their new Sparkling Green Tea Lemonade for the summer – very refreshing!
Pam says
Addiction is an understatement for me! I LOVE the SB experience, as well as their drinks. Gather with my teacher friends there every Friday morning prior to work…. and other times in between. Haha! My favs…. non-fat vanilla latte, non-fat Oprah Chai latte, and non-fat pumpkin spice latte!
kristen says
Oh, my goodness, as a Seattle girl, I've been drinking Starbucks for waaaaay longer than I want to admit. However, and this is bittersweet, but I gave up Starbucks last year. Howard Shultz is in the media just too often, criticizing Christians and what we stand for, even saying that "we can take our money elsewhere." This was a blow to me, because we are shareholders in Starbucks. Anyway… this past year I did take my money elsewhere. I just couldn't stomach giving them $20+ a week anymore. It might not be *quite* as tasty, but I'm learning to love giving my coffee money to those small coffee shops, who definitely need my hard earned dollars more anyway 🙂
Karlene says
Chai tea latte. And my kids love them too! The kids like their's just warmed or sometimes they have them served over ice.
Laura says
Venti ice coffee 2 pumps white mocha 1 pump mocha = amazing!
Amy S says
I have two standards, and I will sometimes do the occasional seasonal warm coffee.
1- Iced Coffee with Mocha and 2%
2- Iced green tea, no water
My girls LOVE the pumpkin bread, but holy cow, 400 calories!
Baby Kate's Mom says
Venti iced black tea with a splash of lemonade or an iced non-fat caramel macchiato (the hazelnut macchiato is good too!) at the holiday time I'll get a 1 pump non-fat no-whip peppermint mocha or n-f n-w salted caramel hot chocolate YYYUUUMMM
My kids like iced passion tea, chocolate milk or kids hot chocolate if it's chilly out!
Before I got pregnant I went daily & got an iced americano but something in my taste buds changed & I haven't had one in over 6 yrs!
Haley @ Cupcakes and Sunshine says
loooove Starbucks. now I'm craving a drink right now! I do love all of their seasonal drinks because I love holidays! but sometimes I get their banana chocolate protein smoothie and it is fantastic!
Babygirl says
The vanilla bean crème frap is my favorite on a hot day, and it has no coffee in it. The kids would love it. it's like a rich vanilla milk shake..sososoooo good!
Angie says
My son and I get a Mocha Crème Frapp and it taste like a chocolate milkshake! They have a non-fat version too.
Olivia's Mommy says
Love sharing Starbucks!
Drinks of Choice:
Grande Non-Fat Latte w/one Equal
Grande Non-Fat Mocha Latte
Grande Non-Fat PSL
Summer I love a good Refresher Obsessed:
I ordered this:
Black Tea, Orange Valencia, No Water, 1 pump of sweetner! My Mom got me hooked on that!
Melissa Joseph says
If you have not tried the caramel apple spice, you need to. It's on the kids menu but it's delicious for kids and adults. It is such a great fall treat. Otherwise, I am with you on the unsweetened green iced tea.
Katie Rokusek says
Caramel Apple Spice – tastes like a warm caramel apple. TO DIE FOR. 🙂
Amy J says
I almost always get just a tall. Too much more I don't feel like I can finish and I'd hate to actually waste a single drop of Starbucks. My go to drink is a peppermint mocha. All.Year.Long. It's like Christmas every time, but even more special when it's in that red cup 😉
If I crave a cold one I still get a peppermint mocha, but I get it made with white chocolate. Oh my goodness.
Besides that I will treat myself to a PSL or a caramel brulee when in season.
I love treating myself to coffee treats. And if I'm really needing something sweet, though in a GiGi's cupcake!
Anonymous says
Those pumpkin spice lattes are basically a chemical concoction and have nothing beneficial to your body in them. The flavor is completely artificial. If I go to Starbucks it's plain, unsweetened iced tea.
A Modern Commonplace Book says
My current favorite drink is the caramel iced coffee with milk. It tastes just like an iced caramel macchiato – and is half the price and calories!
I wrote about all my Starbucks tips and tricks here in case y'all need new ideas! http://www.moderncommonplacebook.com/starbucks-tricks-and-tips/
Eryn Morel says
If you're ever in Louisiana, you have to try Community Coffee (CC's as we like to call it). I'm addicted to CC's like you are to Starbucks! Nothing beats an iced caramel latte! Something about morning coffee that puts you in a great mood!
Liz/ says
I get the same drink basically every single time I go and it is by far the most delicious!!! Non-fat No-whip White Chocolate Mocha…..SO good, try it!!!!
Meagan says
I love me some starbucks!!! Definitely my fave place to grab coffee. I go every morning before work to get a Tall Pike (or Grande haha). On weekends or whenever I'm in the mood to treat myself I get a Skinny Vanilla Latte (usually with an extra shot of espresso) or an iced green tea lemonade mmm 🙂
Emily Tate says
I like to get a grande mocha frappuccino with two pumps of toffee nut no whip.
Also, I hope you have a starbucks card. If you're a gold card holder you get free drinks and treats every few stars. It's completely free! Just add money onto the card.
Farryn says
I'm a coffee addict too! Starbucks makes my heart happy! My absolute favorites are pumpkin spice lattes, and when the snow starts falling I'm in love with the peppermint mocha! I'm also looking forward to the salted caramel coming out again too! Love some Starbucks!
Erin says
A black Americano is my go-to drink sometimes it gets a splash of cream, but most likely not (or just their dark brewed coffee). This summer I also discovered a love for a venti iced Blackberry Tea (not the lemonade) just the tea. AND . . . every once in a while when I need a special treat, I splurge on a Caramel Macchiato.
Katie Oman says
I am an addict as well 🙂 However, my kids have started asking to go to Starbucks every morning before daycare. Their reason: petite vanilla bean scones 🙂
And during our 30 below winters: a good kid's hot chocolate!
Kristi A. says
Vanilla Bean Frappucino!
live compassionately says
I have gotten a London Fog off the secret menu before. It is hot Earl Grey tea with milk…delish!
Susanne says
I love those! Someone told me about them last year and I was hooked!
Mackenzie says
Soy vanilla or hazelnut lattes are my fave, especially this time of year! They are so nutty and warm and a little less sweet than the pumpkin spice if that's what you're feeling!
Sara says
I love a Skinny Cinnamon Docle Latte, but I have to get the non-fat Pumpkin Spice Latte and non-fat Gingerbread Latte when they're in season! In summer, I love a Caramel Frappuccino!
Astleigh H. says
I'm a pick-my-drink-based-on-the-season gal too. Right now I'm all over a nonfat caramel latte with half caramel and half white mocha. It's SO good. Another fall favorite is the Caramel Apple Spice, which would be a great kid friendly option! I'm so glad there are so many other Starbucks obsessed ladies out there…now if only I could get my husband on board…
Sara Laverty says
The day Starbucks brings out the caramel brulee lattes is one of the best days of the year. Ahhh there is nothing like sipping a non fat caramel brulee latte while enjoying the Holiday season. 🙂 I don't do PSL but I am happy to see them come back because I know it means the red cups and caramel brulee lattes are just around the corner. YAHOO!!
Rebecca Jo says
I'm going to read everyone's suggestions all day long 🙂
Someone told me to try a Chai Tea with pumpkin added… interesting!
Shannon says
The pumpkin chai is the best!! My go to drink in the fall!
Jessica says
We live about 2 hours from the nearest Starbucks (and everything else) so I go all out. No non-fat, skinny, soy stuff for me! Whipped cream? Yes! Chocolate drizzle? Yes! Still haven't had a PSL yet. We're almost out of diapers though, so a trip to the city is near!!
Gillian says
So funny, I also started drinking coffee at 19 when I was in college!
My go-to is a tall soy misto – sometimes I add a dash of cinnamon. So good!
Gillian says
So funny, I also started drinking coffee at 19 when I was in college!
My go-to is a tall soy misto – sometimes I add a dash of cinnamon. So good!
Kristin says
Love Starbucks! My favorite is an iced chai. So good! I think it tastes like pumpkin pie in a cup 🙂
Sheaffer {Pinterest Told Me To} says
Salted Caramel Frappacino year round baby! But it's best when in season so the salt is available! Why they don't stock the salt year round is just beyond me.
Katie O'Brien says
Skinny vanilla latte, iced or hot! Hopefully you have the Starbucks app!
AmyRay says
Your Number 5 is my Number 1!
I've passed this along to my best friend, but she can never remember what it is. She will text me from Starbucks – "I'm at Starbucks, what do I want?"
"Venti Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino Light!"
LOVE!
The Curry's says
It's like you read my mind. Nothing makes me happier than a white cup in my hand. I 99.9% of the time order a SOY LATTE! It's the BEST. The soy milk is sweet enough you don't need any syrup. Try it. Once you go soy, you'll never go back. xoxo
Christina Adamson says
Half pumpkin spice, half cinnamon dolce latte. It's fall in a cup!
Alyssa says
I love Starbucks too! My drink of choice at the moment is their dark roast with 2 pumps of pumpkin spice! Tastes like a PSL but only half the cost!
violinista says
Having worked at Starbucks for 3 years, I have an on/off relationship with them :/ Sometimes I think I can't live without them, other times I can't believe I would ever shell out $5 for a drink I know how to make myself at home. That being said, once I started working there, I began appreciating just the "simple" stuff: espresso, plain coffee, iced coffee… and stopped drinking their frappucinos and really sugary drinks. Before I worked there, someone turned me on to a "Raspberry White Mocha" which was SOOOOO good, but has so much sugar in it, too. So I don't indulge in that anymore. Nowadays, I just get iced coffee with cream, or regular coffee. Boring, I know. I do love their PSL, but was dismayed the other day when I realized they raised their prices, so I passed. Pumpkin spiced Chai is also very good.
Anonymous says
If you're wanting to save some money on your daily latte's…Non-fat café misto with pumpkin(or any flavor you want). It is known as the cheap latte. It is half coffee with steamed milk in it.
Anonymous says
If you're wanting to save some money on your daily latte's…Non-fat café misto with pumpkin(or any flavor you want). It is known as the cheap latte. It is half coffee with steamed milk in it.
Anonymous says
LOVE the cinnamon dulce latte. Iced in summer, hot in fall. It tastes like Christmas 🙂
Tammy Rivers says
my 14 year old gets the java chip no whip, my 7 year old gets either apple juice or warm vanilla milk depending on the weather, I get a passion tea lemonade with 2 pumps raspberry or a skinny white mocha depending on the weather…
Melanie says
I'm a new coffee drinker and I haven't explored the coffee options at Starbucks yet but when I do find myself there I always get the Carmel Apple Spice. It's so good and perfect for Fall! Love your "Shades"!
Alison @ Get Your Pretty On says
I can't even see a Pumpkin Spice Latte without thinking of you! I would definitely say that makes it a Shade of Shay. LOL!
Heather says
My #1 winter drink is a non-fat vanilla late with peppermint.
Heather says
My #1 winter drink is a non-fat vanilla late with peppermint.
{Hi Sugarplum!} says
Oh. My. Gosh! Look at all these comments already!! I used to get the sugar-free syrups, but realized they made my head feel funny. What the heck? Now I'm a straight up non fat latte with one splenda.
but girl, you do not need to sit in the carpool line so long!! once they get the kinks worked out, it will move faster…but also, just show up 10-15 mins after school lets out and you'll get to pull right up. Trust me, I've been doing it for 9 years. 😉
jen says
Those little kiddos would love the Carmel Salted Hot Chocolate… Split it though… It's so rich and sweet! You are a doll, Shay!!!
V @ X-tremely V says
I absolutely love that white (even better when it is red) cup! The only thing that saves me from having it daily is that the closest Starbucks to my house is inside Kroger. But I do have it every weekend while doing my grocery shopping 🙂 And just about any other "special" day!
My go-to is a Non-fat Mocha Latte with whip and extra chocolate drizzle on top.
In the Fall I am a non-fat Pumpkin Spice Latte with whip. Gotta have the whip 🙂
And in the summer I have a vanilla creme or strawberry & creme frap 🙂
And before I even starting typing this comment I went back to make myself a coffee at work with my yummy pumpkin spice creamer 🙂 Closing my eyes and envisioning that white cup 🙂
Anonymous says
My favorites are:
Skinny Cinnamon Dulce Latte
Non-fat Salted Caramel Frappuccino
And I wait all year for Skinny Peppermint Mocha!
When I taught, I would go to Starbucks at least once a week. Now it is maybe a once a month treat. I miss the gift cards I received as a teacher=)
JenB says
Do you know you can get peppermint mocha all year long?
Becky Branch says
Amen sista! I love me some Starbucks, hence my blog name "The Java Mama"….if only this TEXAS weather would feel like fall then I would be happy!!! It is supposed to be in the 80's towards the end of the week! Here's hoping for a HOT Starbys 🙂 *cheers*
Memphis Mama says
Love it!! Over the summer I became obsessed with their nonfat, no-whip Cafe Expresso Frappuccinos 🙂 Highly recommend!
Anonymous says
Love me some Starbucks! In the summer I dominate some plain iced coffee, sometimes with cream and vanilla. In the fall it's PSL, of course! Then in the winter I love a peppermint mocha. I wish I could get a drink every day!
Anonymous says
Mine is an Iced Nonfat Hazelnut Macchiato with half the syrup, Iced Peach Green Tea, or a Zebra Mocha nonfat no whip
Darcy says
I don't care for coffee usually, but I am addicted to their iced teas! My long time favorite is an unsweetened Passion iced tea with lemonade & light ice. I also am loving their Peach Green Tea Lemonade and their Blackberry Mojito Green Tea Lemonade. We have good friends that are mint farmers, and their mint is used in Stabucks' mojito syrup so I like to think I'm supporting our ag community when I drink that tea! 🙂
Mattie says
I live in Seattle so lucky for me there are Starbucks EVERYWHERE. I live a couple of blocks from the "first Starbucks" in Pike Place Market (why anyone would wait in line to get a drink there is beyond me, it's not even the real first one!). I would looove to work for Starbucks Corporate located here!
My all-time favorite is a nonfat no whip white chocolate mocha (hot or iced, depending on the weather). But when I'm trying to be healthier I get something skinny, either skinny vanilla latte, caramel macchiato, or cinnamon dolce latte!
Michelle Morphis says
Your children are not the only addicts you created!!! I had only had Starbucks once in my entire life before you and I didn't like whatever I had. Then comes Shay! Caramel Macchiato was the first one I had and LOVED! I remember the day they opened one by our office and your dad stood in line and got all 3 of us one. I have been addicted ever since! I still love my Caramel Macchiato and I also like a White Chocolate Mocha. My addiction has cause Brenden to have an addiction as well! He LOVES Starbucks!
Michelle Morphis says
Your children are not the only addicts you created!!! I had only had Starbucks once in my entire life before you and I didn't like whatever I had. Then comes Shay! Caramel Macchiato was the first one I had and LOVED! I remember the day they opened one by our office and your dad stood in line and got all 3 of us one. I have been addicted ever since! I still love my Caramel Macchiato and I also like a White Chocolate Mocha. Recently had a Iced Vanilla Bean and it was also yummy! My addiction has cause Brenden to have an addiction as well! He LOVES Starbucks!
Kim Taylor says
I am so addicted to Starbucks that several years ago my husband gave me $1000 to invest in any stock I wanted and guess what I chose……Yes! STARBUCKS! and I would like to add that it has done VERY WELL since then and I even added more! HaHa! I love me some Starbucks! The day I became a Gold Card Member was a day of elation! I enjoy NF Pumpkin Spice in season- but only do 2 pumps of PS. I also LOVE a skinny Pepp Mocha no whip. In the summer always a green tea lemonade- no syrup- just 1 splenda. I LOVE STARBUCKS! and its almost red cup season!! Happy Tuesday Shay!!
Tiffany {A Touch of Grace} says
I have been a SBUX drinker since I was in high school. My go to was always a grande vanilla latte. Then I downgraded to a tall non-fat vanilla latte. Now that I work here I drink an americano with cream and 1 Splenda. We do so many coffee tastings that I've come to appreciate black coffee much more. French press over drip every day. I do still get at least 1 PSL during the season, and 1 non-fat eggnog latte in the winter.
FYI for those peppermint lovers out there you can get it year round. You don't have to wait for the holidays! 🙂
Elise @ Cheers Yall says
LOVE! I'm Starbucks crazed too…and I'm the girl who only drinks coffee, tea, and water too. My juice lovin' hubby thinks I'm cray! 😉
xx
Andrea says
My favorite is a Hot Apple Chai with Caramel drizzle! It almost tastes like a caramel apple. It's delicious. It's a must when Christmas shopping!
Sara says
I'm a nonfat chai latte (iced in spring/summer, hot in fall/winter) kind of gal. I gave up all caffeine a few months back because I'd get headaches without it. Now Starbucks is a special treat for me because I only allow myself maybe 1-2 drinks per month.
Amy says
Love PSL's! What do you order your kiddos? I have a little guy & he loves going with Mama. I always get him a chocolate milk but am looking for other things for him to drink. Thanks!
Charla Liedahl says
Nonfat raspberry mocha, no whip–hot or iced. MY FAVORITE!!!
MC says
I am not a coffee fan, but I am a chai fan. I usually get nonfat chai lattes during the spring and summer, and then in the fall I get pumpkin spice added, and in the winter I get peppermint added.
I also like that passion iced tea they have.
Angela says
I am a Starbucks addict too! And also am afraid that I'm passing it down to my kiddos! 😉 I either order a Grande Nonfat Latte or a Grande Cafe Americano with the classic flavor and a little room fro cream, delicious!
Erin Zimmerman says
Venti one pump nonfat mocha, extra hot with three Splenda, no foam, no whip, milk all the way up to the top. Delish!
Marika Scotton says
Do you have a Starbucks gold card? I buy Starbucks every.single.day. to get through work during the week and then on the weekends too 🙂 Getting that lucky free reward is awesome because then I use that to purchase a venti drink of choice. I love the pumpkin spiced latte with no whip, but really the christmas drinks: gingerbread latte no whip! During the week to save money I just order a iced coffee with milk and two pumps of regular syrup if its hot, and if its cold out I get a drip dark roast coffee and add my own milk.
Katelyn Magerko says
Cinnamon Dolce Latte all year, Salted Carmel Mocha during the winter, Salted Hot Chocolate and the Carmel Apple Cider for the kiddos!!
sayyestohappy says
I didn't know there was a secret menu, what fun!
I usually get a caramel frap or macciato. I also recently started getting the peach green tea which is deliciously refreshing!
Jenny says
My four year old daughter & I love the unsweetened passion iced tea. (It's caffeine free). I think one of the main reasons she likes it is that it's pink. 🙂
Amie says
My favorite right now is the Caramel Macchiatto for sure! I had a Cafe Latte w/ 2 Truvia yesterday and that was pretty good also.
Lynn says
My favorite is a non-fat vanilla chai… I love it hot (fall/winter) and iced (spring/summer) it's my go-to! I used to love the white chocolate mocha (non-fat, no whip), but anymore the chai is my FAVORITE. It's actually not too bad for you (only a little over 200 calories for a venti I think!) so I justify it in my head that way 😉
Melanie Wynn says
Oh my gosh. This is like the holy grail of coffee ideas over here. I may have to print these comments and leave it in my purse!
sarah says
Omg! Im a starbucks addict too! I usually get the Chai Tea Latte and other stuff! I really get into even more trouble in the winter when the creme brulee comes. Oh dear! Btw I shared a link below that's quite fitting today!
http://instagram.com/p/svOUyaMo2H/
coco says
HOT: Skinny Vanilla Latte or Skinny Cinnamon Dolce Latte
COLD: Unsweetened Shaken Black Tea Lemonade, Cool Lime Refresher or Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher
You're welcome! 🙂
Anonymous says
Omg I'm addicted to this too!
Said no grown woman ever.
Anonymous says
"Nonfat white chocolate mocha no whip" is my go to drink, has been for years. Also love Pike Place coffee – black.
Anonymous says
"Nonfat white chocolate mocha no whip" is my go to drink, has been for years. Also love Pike Place coffee – black.
Janelle Guaraldi says
I hope you have the Starbucks app for the iPhone, it's great! I order the Peach Green Tea Lemonade when it's available in the summer. The rest of the year I order a Black Tea Lemonade, sweetened. I don't like coffee, so it's all tea for me!
amoveableme.com says
I'm pregnant, so I am getting half-caff
Grande, half-caff, soy vanilla latte. 🙂
Danika says
Probably the best Shade of Shay ever!! I'm a Starbucks addict also. My drink of choice in the summer is an iced vanilla latte and anytime of the year I can be found with a non-fat no water 190 degree chai latte in my hand!
Todd and Courtney says
nonfat vanilla steamer!
Jaren says
Wowzers! Look at all the comments on Starbucks. It is loved by many. It is always a special treat to get starbucks, but looking at these comments has made me realize I need to branch out more and try something other than a non-fat latte!
Heather A. says
LOVE me some Starbucks!! Do you use their app?? I just recently started using it and now I wish I would have started sooner!!! You should totally check it out!! But I am not a hot coffee person at all so I mainly stick to Frappucinos…caramel, non fat milk, no whip, double blended, caramel drizzle on top. : ) : ) #starbucksaddict #noshame
Frances says
I am not the Earth police and I hope you don't hate me for suggesting this but how about a reusable cup for your daily Starbucks fix? I think every bit counts and there are a lot of SB drinkers out there! I know, just call me Debbie Downer. Sorry.
JenB says
You get a few cents off when you take your own cup too. Not much $, but if you go every day……
Jennifer Renda says
I love the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. That is my treat drink.
I have a Starbucks's vanilla coffee once a day when I have it. I love it.
Anonymous says
http://www.esquire.com/blogs/food-for-men/why-starbucks-spells-name-wrong
Anonymous says
I love your blog! As a health nut, I just have to ask… Have you heard about the Caramel Coloring Starbucks uses in it's drinks?! I'm heartbroken this will be my first PSL season without one…but I just can't do it after reading the ingredients list. Blah. Tear. Maybe one of your October goals could be finding a healthy homemade PSL recipe?! 🙂 Also for people who can't afford that habit!
Laura says
I love starbucks as well! My husband and I have an espresso machine from starbucks from years ago and we make lattes almost daily to cut costs, but I still love a good starbucks drink.
My favorite coffee to buy for the espresso machine is anniversary blend (when it comes out and I buy the first bag I always text my husband "guess what time of year it is!") because he loves it too! I also love Christmas blend.
My go to drink is a skinny vanilla latte and my splurge drinks are gingerbread lattes and carmel frappachino light 🙂
Aubrey says
Can I just say that my first year in England there was no pumpkin spice at my local Starbucks? The barista looked at me like I was crazy and I wanted to cry with homesickness. Last year they finally added it to the seasonal menu, and it tasted like home! My favorite European seasonal drink is the Toffee Nut Latte. That's been my go-to at Christmas time for all the years we've lived in Europe. Can you get that one in the States?? I need to know stat! Otherwise I might have that "homesick" feeling all over again when we move to Texas!
Trish H says
A non-caffeinated option for kids and adults – a non-fat, caramel steamed milk. Yum!
Jen B says
Skinny vanilla latte and PSL fat free, no whip are my go-to drinks!
Bonnie says
Not sure if anyone posted a link to a secret menu website, but I found this tonight!
http://hackthemenu.com/starbucks/secret-menu/
Ally Miller says
Try the Vanilla Rooibos tea with a pump of pumpkin syrup!
DetroitDuchess says
I always wanted to go to Starbucks, but I'm not a coffee or tea drinker, so for the longest time it was always awkward when friends wanted to meet at Starbucks or someone wanted to have a business meeting there.
Ever since they came out with the line of Refreshers I have been hooked! I normally don't drink caffeine because it makes me jittery and nauseous. Red Bulls and 5-hours are the worst for me. After I tried the refreshers, I loved them! They give me a little boost without the jitters!
My favorite is the Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher at Starbucks. You can also find them in the cans and I like the Strawberry Lemonade in the can.
Now I can go there every day and obsessed with getting my 12 drinks to get one free.
Meghan says
My go-to's are a PSL hot or iced with whip, until I get tired of it and then the rest of the year it's a peppermint white chocolate mocha, again iced or hot depending on the season 🙂
Elizabeth {Chasin' Mason} says
I love the peach green tea lemonade in the summer… I wish they had the peach year round! Your kids would probably like the passion iced tea or the caramel apple spice in the fall! Yum!
Aimee says
Try this: triple espresso in a grande cup with extra ice, 2 pumps white mocha, splash of non fat. It's do die for!
Lauren says
This post right here is why I love you. God bless America and God bless Starbucks. 98% of the time I get a cafe mocha and the other 2% is a java chip. I swear to you that my car is on auto pilot to these fine establishments…
Liz says
White hot chocolate, caramel apple spice, flavored steamed milk, strawberry and cream frapp, vanilla bean cream frapp, white choc. creme frapp, double choc chip frapp,caramel ribbon frapp, cinn dolce frapp oh and smoothies, orange mango.
Kristen Boyle says
Our Starbucks has a "clover" machine, basically a french press. I've never had such pure tasting coffee, it's amazing! The freshest you will ever taste
Kayla says
i love to get a Vivano after I workout. Who knew Starbucks could help me in the protein department!?
Mina says
Love it! My three faves are:
1) A grande drip with two pumps vanilla and splash of cream.
2) A grande black iced tea, sub 2 pumps raspberry for the sweetener.
3) A grande iced nonfat vanilla latte.
Anonymous says
Vanilla bean frappuccino caramel affogato mmmmm!It is a vanilla bean frappuccino drizzled with caramel and then topped with a shot of espresso.
Also there is a drink on the secret menu called captain crunch that is pretty delicious and kiddos love it.
Anonymous says
Shay! I know this is an old post but I was reading today's 52 shades of shay and this one was recommended it below it. I am also an addict – a trait passed to me by my mother (thank goodness for her great taste!) Anyways, my sisters and I always order iced coffees with milk (I choose soy) and a syrup (like hazelnut, cinnamon dolce, or vanilla) and it is such a yummy treat! I hope you enjoy too!:)