While food and drink preferences differ around the world, there’s one thing that crosses cultural boundaries—coffee. But if you’d ever visited a cafe abroad, you’ll notice coffee drinks differ slightly with the location. Coffeehouse giant Starbucks is no exception. If you can’t get enough Frappuccinos, Refreshers, and other Starbucks favorites, check out some of these wild Starbucks beverages abroad that you can’t get in the U.S.
1. Sakura Blossom Beverages—Japan
Sakura, or cherry blossoms, are as to spring as snow is to winter. While Americans love a good cherry blossom tree, Japan has taken their affinity to the next level with a line of sakura blossom beverages. These pink drinks, such as the Starbucks “Sakura Blossom Cream Latte” and the “Sakura Blossom Cream Frappuccino,” feature condensed milk, white bean paste, and cherry petals.
2. Churro Frappuccino—Latin America
Spotlighting cinnamon dolce, whipped cream, and white mocha syrups, the “Churro Frappuccino” can be found in special Starbucks locations across Latin America. The pale drink might not look like much to rave about, but there’s nothing sweeter than sipping this exotic cinnamon treat in drink form.
3. Lemon Ginger Fizzio With Mango Jelly—South Korea
Starbucks’ Fizzio drinks are popular across the U.S., but have you ever tasted one with mango jelly? In 2014, this rare Fizzio, along with three others, debuted to celebrate a fashion show in Starbucks Famille Park store in Seoul. Everyone is crossing their fingers this surprising mango and ginger combination comes back soon. If you visit Seoul and can’t find this fan-favorite, peek in to one of the many bubble tea stores available, which offer traditional tapioca pearls usually along with other flavored jellies.
4. Cherry Pie Frappuccino—Japan
Japan bookends the list with a cherry pie Frappuccino that highlights a real pie crust dome that’s, “…designed to mimic the look and taste of a cherry pie a la mode,” according to Eater. The Japan-exclusive beverage is made with layered cherry compote, vanilla froth, whipped cream, and the crumbly pastry dome. What will Japan think of next?
Mango jelly drinks, churro beverages, and pie Frappuccinos are just a few of the exclusive Starbucks treats you can find only outside of the U.S. Even if you don’t want to travel across borders just for a sip, consider checking out a Starbucks next time you have a layover abroad. You might be surprised at what you’ll find beyond the brewed coffee.
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