My favorite holidays are not Christmas, Halloween, or even the Fourth of July. While they each have their own merits, none can compare to Aug. 25: Starbucks’ Fall Menu release day. Although this day is one of the highlights of my year, until now I have only tried one drink from the iconic seasonal menu: the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai. This year, however, I have decided to branch out and try every drink from the fall menu. I will rate them on factors including taste, fall vibes and everyday drinkability. Enjoy!
The Iced Chaider
As someone whose year-round Starbucks order is a Strawberry Açaí Refresher, I was slightly shocked to learn that the newest addition to the Fall Menu is made with the strawberry açaí base. I took my first sip expecting a fall spin on my classic summery order. I could not have been more wrong. A sour apple cider taste flooded my mouth, followed by spicy cinnamon and a refreshing aftertaste. The best way I can describe this drink is that it tastes like what I imagine eating a fall Bath & Body Works candle would taste like. It is strong, undeniably fall, and a perfect drink for a warmer fall day. The Chaider is refreshing in a way most seasonal drinks are not and I can see it becoming an everyday drink for many people. Personally, I will be sticking to my beloved Strawberry Açaí Refresher, however this was a great start to the 2026 Fall Menu.
Taste: 7/10
Everyday Drinkability: 9/10
Fall Vibes: 9.5/10
Pumpkin Spice Latte
In my very controversial opinion, I did not like the Pumpkin Spice Latte. On my first sip I was assaulted by a pungent pumpkin flavor that was followed by a coffee taste so strong that I gagged. But I also recognized that I was an unfair judge for this drink as I hate the taste of coffee. So, I decided to consult my coffee-loving friend, senior Valentina Rojas. She told me that I was being dramatic and that it tasted great. She then took the drink to her F Block class to enjoy while she worked. In conclusion, this drink is for those who love coffee and should be avoided at any cost by those who do not.
Taste: 2/10 (Aanya), 9/10 (Valentina)
Everyday Drinkability: 5/10
Fall Vibes: 10/10
Iced Pecan Crunch Latte
The Iced Pecan Crunch Latte came second place for me. It was sweet, nutty, and the perfect mix of rich but still drinkable. The cold foam was delectable and the sugary pecan crunch topping added excitement to every sip. The only thing that would knock off some points in my opinion is the slight taste of coffee that followed. But again, I recognize that I am biased and to many people the slight coffee aftertaste would be enjoyable. Overall, however, the drink is perfect for the fall season and was even approved by my most picky friend, junior Jordan Arbuckle.
Taste: 9/10
Everyday Drinkability: 8/10
Fall Vibes: 7.5/10
Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai
Finally, the undisputed winner, the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai. I will tolerate no hate for this drink. It is a perfect blend of fall and heaven. It represents Halloween and Thanksgiving all in one. The sweet pumpkin taste combined with the milky black tea concentrate base is the epitome of what the season is meant to be. You can close your eyes and imagine yourself strolling through a pumpkin patch and then stepping into your living room curled up under a Lola Blanket with Gilmore Girls playing on the TV. Everyone I recruited to taste this masterpiece of a drink had no complaints and always went back for a second sip. What a wonderful way to end my fall menu review!
Taste: 10/10
Everyday Drinkability: 10/10
Fall Vibes: 10/10
Head over to Starbucks on Midway and Belt Line and try the drinks for yourselves!
