With a menu as massive and ever-changing as Starbucks’, it’s easy to fall into the trap of ordering what’s trending—only to end up sipping something that’s all style and no substance. Let’s face it: not every buzzworthy brew lives up to its Instagram fame. Some drinks promise magic but deliver mediocrity, while others quietly win loyal fans without the flashy reputation. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a die-hard Starbucks devotee, this list separates the overrated sips from the real stars. Ready to find out which drinks to skip—and which ones truly deliver the hype?
1. OVERRATED: Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino
This drink looks like dessert—and tastes like one too, minus the balance. While visually appealing with its cookie crumble topping and rich swirl of whipped cream, it leans so heavily into sweetness that the actual coffee flavor disappears.
Fans of sugary treats might love it, but if you came for a bold coffee hit, you’ll be left disappointed. With more sugar than a slice of cake and a price tag to match, this one’s more of a milkshake masquerading as coffee. It’s over-the-top in presentation, but underwhelming in flavor. Save it for a sugar rush—not your daily caffeine fix.
2. OVERRATED: Iced Shaken Espresso
Marketed as a lighter, bolder take on iced espresso, this drink often underdelivers on both fronts. It’s supposed to be a refreshing, foamy take on strong coffee—but ends up tasting diluted or oddly bitter, depending on the barista. Even flavor add-ins like brown sugar syrup or oat milk can’t always rescue it. And with so many other iced coffee options on the Starbucks menu, this one struggles to justify its cost or its fanfare. In theory, it’s sophisticated. In practice? It’s inconsistent, and often leaves you wondering why you didn’t just get cold brew.
3. OVERRATED: Oleato (Olive Oil-Infused Coffee)
Starbucks rolled out this bold innovation with olive oil-infused coffee to much fanfare—but reactions have been… complicated. While the brand touted its health benefits and “velvety” texture, many customers reported oily mouthfeel and even stomach discomfort.
The idea may appeal to health-conscious trend-chasers, but the reality is a drink that often separates, looks unappetizing, and tastes unfamiliar. It’s a case of culinary curiosity gone too far. Rather than elevate the experience, the olive oil often distracts from it. While it’s a conversation starter, most people would prefer their coffee without a slick layer of oil floating on top.
4. OVERRATED: Unicorn Frappuccino
Bright colors, swirling whipped cream, and a neon aesthetic made this drink an instant social media darling—but taste-wise, it’s a mess. It’s sour. It’s sweet. It’s confusing. And it’s entirely devoid of coffee. This limited-time drink was clearly designed for Instagram, not for actual enjoyment.
If you’re looking for substance over spectacle, steer clear. While it was a marketing success, many who actually tried it found it barely drinkable. The Unicorn Frappuccino is more of a novelty than a beverage—and definitely one of Starbucks’ most overhyped creations to date. Great for photos? Sure. Great for your tastebuds? Not so much.
5. OVERRATED: Espresso Frappuccino
Sounds like the best of both worlds, right? Not quite. The Espresso Frappuccino attempts to blend bold espresso with frozen creaminess, but instead lands in an awkward middle ground. It lacks the indulgent texture of sweeter Frappuccinos and doesn’t quite satisfy hardcore espresso fans either. The result is watery, underwhelming, and often bitter without much payoff. It’s one of those menu items that sounds better on paper than it actually tastes. If you’re craving strong coffee flavor, stick to a cold brew or a straight espresso shot. This one just can’t decide what it wants to be.
6. UNDERRATED: Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL)
Say what you want about the PSL—it’s a cultural icon for a reason. With its cozy blend of espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin, and warm fall spices, it manages to taste like autumn in a cup. It’s sweet but not cloying, spicy without being overpowering, and balanced with just enough caffeine kick to keep you coming back.
Seasonal availability only makes it more special. While some trends fade, the PSL has earned its yearly spotlight thanks to consistent flavor and nostalgic charm. It’s the kind of drink that wraps you in a sweater and reminds you why fall drinks rule.
7. UNDERRATED: Flat White
For those who appreciate coffee artistry, the Flat White is a quiet standout. Originating from Australia and New Zealand, it features a velvety microfoam poured over ristretto shots, resulting in a rich, smooth drink with just the right amount of intensity. It’s less milky than a latte, but creamier than an Americano—basically, a perfect in-between for coffee lovers who want depth without bitterness. The Flat White doesn’t need fancy syrups or toppings to stand out. It earns respect the old-fashioned way: with perfect balance, quality espresso, and smooth texture in every sip. Quietly excellent, it’s a barista’s best-kept secret.
8. UNDERRATED: Nitro Cold Brew
Starbucks nailed it with their Nitro Cold Brew. Infused with nitrogen gas and served without ice, it pours like a stout beer and delivers a creamy, cascading texture without any dairy. The flavor is bold yet smooth, with a natural sweetness that doesn’t need sugar or syrup to shine.
It’s a hit with minimalists who love their coffee strong and clean. Unlike other cold brews, this one feels like a premium experience from the first sip to the last. Whether you’re powering through a workday or just chilling on a warm afternoon, Nitro Cold Brew delivers silky-smooth satisfaction every time.
9. UNDERRATED: Caramel Macchiato
A longtime customer favorite, the Caramel Macchiato hits that sweet spot—literally and figuratively. It layers vanilla syrup, steamed milk, espresso, and rich caramel drizzle into a drink that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s sweet, but the espresso cuts through, creating a drink that’s both indulgent and energizing.
Whether hot or iced, it delivers a reliable flavor experience that’s stood the test of time. The Caramel Macchiato might not be trendy, but it’s consistently satisfying—and that’s what makes it truly hype-worthy. It’s a classic comfort drink that delivers on flavor, texture, and feel-good vibes in every sip.
10. UNDERRATED: Caffè Americano
The Caffè Americano proves that simplicity can be deeply satisfying. Made by adding hot water to rich espresso shots, it offers a bold yet smooth flavor that highlights Starbucks’ espresso without any distractions. It’s strong without being overpowering and delivers a smoky depth that fans of pure coffee will appreciate. It’s also one of the most affordable, customizable drinks on the menu—add a splash of milk or a flavor shot if you like, but it doesn’t need it. In a sea of sugary blends and seasonal creations, the Americano stands tall as a no-fuss favorite that always delivers.
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