Starbucks, known for its classic coffee offerings like lattes and drip coffee, also experiments with trendy specialty items. One of its most iconic beverages, the Pumpkin Spice Latte, has become synonymous with fall. However, not all innovations resonate with customers.
The coffee giant recently announced the discontinuation of its Oleato line, which featured olive oil-infused drinks, after less than a year on the menu.
Launched in early 2023 in California and expanded nationwide in January 2024, the Oleato line highlighted award-winning Partanna olive oil as a key ingredient. It included beverages such as the Oleato Caffé Latte with Oat Milk and the Oleato Golden Foam Iced Shaken Espresso with Toffee Nut. Despite its Italian roots, where adding olive oil to coffee is a common practice, the line failed to capture a lasting place in Starbucks’ offerings.
Starbucks attributed the decision to the ongoing process of menu simplification and rearrangement, similar to past limited-time items like the Unicorn Frappuccino and Cold Brew Lemonade.
Customer feedback revealed mixed reactions to the Oleato drinks. While some appreciated the flavor of the toffee nut syrup and described the Oleato latte as a “savory coffee,” many reported adverse side effects. The combination of coffee and olive oil, both known for their laxative properties, led to complaints of upset stomachs. One Reddit user lamented, “I’ll never forgive that latte,” while a barista humorously noted they “say a little prayer” over each Oleato drink prepared.
For those who enjoyed the Oleato line or hoped to try it, time is running out as the drinks will soon be removed from menus. As the holiday season approaches, many customers are looking forward to more traditional offerings, such as peppermint hot chocolate, which have consistently delighted patrons.
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