When you’re working in the city, there’s no more familiar sight than that of the local Starbucks. True, there are probably a thousand different coffee spots in and around the Metro, with all sorts of offerings. But when it comes to Starbucks, at least you can be sure what you’re getting into. When you need to grab a quick caffeine fix before work, or recharge in between meetings, this is one place where you can get your old favorites with no fuss.
However, sometimes your usual coffee order won’t cut it, and that’s when the Secret Menu comes in. These are “off” the menu drinks, and need a bit of digging around to find. Starbucks’ secret menu has been well-popularized, to the point that fans have even curated a website guide to the Secret Menu items. If you’re feeling a little bit more adventurous on your next coffee run, here are some of the items you might want to try.
Butterbeer Frappuccino
Fans of Harry Potter don’t need to jet all the way to the nearest Universal Studios theme park to get a taste of their favorite drink. While you might see this more often during the holiday season, it’s definitely a drink you should look forward to. Simply ask for a Caramel Cream Frappuccino base with whole milk, add three pumps of caramel syrup and three pumps of toffee nut syrup, and top with whipped cream and caramel drizzle. Give it a mix and enjoy the magic!
Cotton Candy Frappuccino
Fans of pink will go gaga over this sweet drink, and it’s surprisingly simple to make! Simply start off with a Vanilla Cream Frappuccino base, and then ask for one pump of raspberry syrup for tall, one and a half pumps for grande, and two pumps for venti. Your barista will give it a swirl, and what comes out is a light pink drink that’s refreshing and Instagrammable.
Citrus Berry Passion Refresher
The summer heat is coming in strong, and the last thing you want to deal with is heatstroke. Cool off with this light and super refreshing drink and keep that bakasyon mood going strong. Ask for a mix of Berry Refresher, Cool Lime Refresher, and some lemonade, and simply add a splash of unsweetened Passion Tango tea on top. This tea will keep you going through the hot months with no problem.
Twix Frappuccino
If your sweet tooth lately has been going into overdrive, satisfy it with this overload of sugar. A Twix Frappuccino starts off with a Caramel Frappuccino base, then extra caramel, hazelnut syrup, and java chips. You can enjoy it with a giant blob of whipped cream and chocolate syrup, or just have your drink without— but really, why bother? Go all in with this one and you’ll find even the strongest of sugar cravings well-satisfied.
Affogato Frappuccino
Coffee lovers who want to cool down and take it easy will probably want to try this one. Simply start off with a Vanilla Cream Frappuccino, and then ask for an espresso shot (one for tall, two for grande, and three for venti). Your barista will pour the hot espresso over your icy drink, and you’ll have mix of hot and cold that’ll keep you up the whole day.
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For more secret tips and delicious food and drinks, check out the Food category on Daydreaming in Paradise!
If there’s one thing Jonah De Jesus loves, it’s food. He practically grew up in the kitchen, following his mom around as she put together delicious dishes (although he was sometimes more of a hindrance than a help). Although he eventually ended up taking a Bachelor of Arts in Communications, that love for all things gastronomical followed him well into his adulthood.
When he’s not watching reruns of Parts Unknown or trying to imitate Gordon Ramsay in the kitchen, Jonah spends most of his time scouring Manila for all the newest and best places to eat.
