The summer heat brings about a wide array of cravings for adventure that need to be satisfied. From finding a mass of water to creatively splash in to finding a refreshing beverage that quenches the parched thirst the humidity brings, summer is the time to take that risk and enjoy its reward. After working as a Barista for Starbucks for roughly two years the biggest joke that I hear from customers is “Can you put an extra shot of (insert their liquor of choice) in that for me?” While some Starbucks around the country are becoming Evening Stores (stores that sell craft wines and beers) the majority of locations in America do not. To add a punchline to the joke, here are a couple of non-alcoholic classic summertime cocktails to order. The best part? You don’t have to wait until 5 o’ clock.
*These drinks are not common knowledge to barista’s. For an overall excellent Starbucks experience order using the description, not the drink title. *
The Pina Colada
If you like Pina Coladas, don’t get caught in the rain without trying this drink first. Order a Cool lime refresher, add mango syrup, and add coconut milk instead of water. Next, ask the barista to blend with ice and finish with a dome lid on top! The tropical flavors with definitely light up your palate with a refreshing finish!
The Guinness
If you are looking for a craft taste but need some caffeinated joy on the way to work, this one is for you. Order a Cold Brew iced coffee Extra-fizzed, with no water or ice. The nitrogen infusion allows the cold brew to adapt flavors of a dark lager but will give you the same caffeine kick you need to give you a boost to finish your day. The other chemical property that this drink will have as if it came of the tap is an abundance of foam. If you are a foam lover ask your barista to split it into two cups to enjoy twice as much!
The Margarita
This specific beverage is only available after 3pm as the base beverage is part of the new Sunset menu that is designed to bring customers back in the evening. However, it is definitely worth the wait. Order a Strawberry Lemon-Limeade Granita, with full pumps peach and half pumps mango instead of classic, with a splash of apple juice on top in addition to the limeade. For maximum flavor ask for it to be placed in a bigger cup (if ordering a tall ask for it to be in a grande cup).
So before you and your group of friends go float down a river, or get together for a pool party, carpool to Starbucks and start off the adventure with drink in hand.
