Top 5 Most Popular Starbucks Drinks in China

Visiting a Starbucks in China but not sure what locals actually order? Whether you're in Shanghai, Chengdu or newly opened Luoyang, you'll spot the same crowd favorites again and again. If you want to try what most customers actually drink — without guessing — here’s your guide. These are the top five best-selling beverages across Starbucks stores nationwide, based on current consumer preferences.

The five most popular Starbucks drinks in China are: Oat Milk Latte, Iced Americano, Cold Brew, Matcha Frappuccino (caffeine-free), and Iced Strawberry Blackcurrant Sparkler (also caffeine-free). Each offers something different — dairy-free options, strong coffee, or fruity refreshers — and all appear frequently on local order boards.

1. Oat Milk Latte: Dairy-Free and Creamy

Made with Oatly oat milk and a shot of espresso, the Oat Milk Latte is a go-to for those avoiding dairy. Unlike traditional milk, oat milk contains no lactose, making it a solid option for the lactose-intolerant. It also appeals to anyone curious about plant-based alternatives. Note: Oat milk includes added plant oils, so it's not meant for heavy daily consumption as a full milk replacement.

2. Iced Americano: Strong, Clean and Zero Calories

An Iced Americano is simply chilled espresso over ice — no milk, no sugar, just bold black coffee. It’s a zero-sugar, zero-fat choice, making it a favorite for calorie-conscious coffee drinkers. The result is a clean, refreshing cup with straightforward espresso flavor and high intensity.

3. Cold Brew: Smooth, Low-Acidity and Caffeine-Rich

Cold Brew differs from Iced Americano in how it’s made. Instead of hot water and ice, it uses a slow cold-water extraction over 12–24 hours. This method prevents the release of bitter compounds, resulting in a smoother, richer taste without the usual acidity or bitterness. Because of the extended brew time, cold brew also contains more caffeine than a standard iced espresso drink. It’s ideal for coffee lovers wanting a bold yet smooth chill cup.

4. Matcha Frappuccino: A Beloved Caffeine-Free Classic

The Matcha Frappuccino is one of Starbucks’ longest-running non-coffee hits. It’s a blended drink made with matcha green tea powder, milk, and ice — no coffee involved. Sweet, creamy and reliably refreshing, it’s a top choice for anyone skipping caffeine but still wanting a frosty treat.

5. Iced Strawberry Blackcurrant Sparkler: Fruity and Refreshing

This fruit-based iced tea blends blackcurrant and mixed berry juice with black tea, then serves it over ice. With no coffee and the option to customize the ice level, it’s a bright, tangy drink perfect for warm days or anyone avoiding caffeine. It’s light, flavorful, and very easy to drink.

Starbucks China Drink Prices (2023)

Here’s a breakdown of 2023 pricing for the most common Starbucks drinks in China, listed by category:

Handcrafted Espresso-Based Drinks (Medium Cup: ¥25–¥34)

All use a shot of espresso as the base.

Signature Coffee Beverages (Medium: ¥30–¥39)

• Oat / Soy / Whole / Skim Milk Latte or Cappuccino (Medium: ¥30 / Large: ¥33 / Extra Large: ¥36)
• Vanilla / Hazelnut Latte (Medium: ¥33 / Large: ¥36 / Extra Large: ¥39)
• Americano (Medium: ¥27 / Large: ¥30 / Extra Large: ¥33)
• Caramel Macchiato (Medium: ¥34 / Large: ¥37 / Extra Large: ¥40)
• Flat White (Medium: ¥41 / Large: ¥38 / Extra Large: ¥35)

Iced Blended Drinks (Starbucks Frappuccinos, Medium: ¥31–¥39)

All are iced blends, served cold with no hot or de-iced option.

• Caramel Coffee Frappuccino (Medium: ¥33 / Large: ¥36 / Extra Large: ¥39)
• Chocolate Frappuccino (Medium: ¥33 / Large: ¥36 / Extra Large: ¥39)
• Matcha Crème Frappuccino (Medium: ¥33 / Large: ¥36 / Extra Large: ¥39)
• Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino (Medium: ¥31 / Large: ¥34 / Extra Large: ¥37)
• Espresso Frappuccino (Medium: ¥33 / Large: ¥36 / Extra Large: ¥39)
• Mango Passionfruit Frappuccino (Medium: ¥31 / Large: ¥34 / Extra Large: ¥37)

Teavana Tea Series (Medium: ¥25–¥34)

Made with tea leaves or powders, all caffeine-free.

• Iced Peach Oolong Tea (Medium: ¥34 / Large: ¥37 / Extra Large: ¥40)
• Iced Blackcurrant Tea (Medium: ¥28 / Large: ¥31 / Extra Large: ¥34)
• Iced Lemon Tea (Medium: ¥26 / Large: ¥29 / Extra Large: ¥32)

Cold Brew Series (Medium: ¥25–¥48)

Made via cold water extraction for a clean, smooth and intense cup.

• Cold Brew Iced Coffee (Medium: ¥34 / Large: ¥37 / Extra Large: ¥40)
• Tahitian Cloud Cold Brew (Medium: ¥37 / Large: ¥40 / Extra Large: ¥40)
• Nitro Cold Brew (Medium: ¥48)

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Milk and Cold Coffee Drinks

For those enjoying Starbucks-style milk drinks or cold brews at home, we recommend FrontStreet Coffee’s Oat Milk Latte pairings: their Classic Blend offers a well-rounded, creamy espresso base ideal for lattes, while the Black Cocoa Blend brings boldness and depth, perfect for Iced Americanos or cold brews. Both are expertly roasted for milk compatibility or low-acid chill drinking. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.