Starbucks: A History of Specialty Menu Items

Since its founding in 1971, Starbucks has become a global leader in specialty coffee. From its humble beginnings as a Seattle-based coffee shop, Starbucks has gone on to become a household name. Over the years, Starbucks has continued to innovate and expand its menu, offering customers a wide variety of specialty drinks, snacks, and food items. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the menu items Starbucks has offered throughout the years, beginning with their founding in 1971 and continuing up until the present day.

The Early Years

When Starbucks first opened its doors in 1971, the menu was much smaller than it is today. The original menu only included a few signature drinks, including the Mocha and the Latte. There were also a few pastries, such as muffins and bagels, and a selection of teas.

In the late 1970s, Starbucks began to expand its menu to include sandwiches and salads. These offerings were popular with customers, and helped to further establish Starbucks as a cafe destination.

Expansion in the 1980s and 1990s

In the 1980s, Starbucks began to focus on expanding its specialty coffee drinks. The Frappuccino was introduced in 1995, and quickly became a customer favorite. The Frappuccino was a blended drink made from coffee, ice, and flavored syrups. Other specialty drinks, such as the Caramel Macchiato and the Cafe Mocha, were also added to the menu.

In the 1990s, Starbucks also began to offer a wider variety of snacks and pastries. Customers could now find items such as oatmeal and breakfast sandwiches, as well as a larger selection of pastries and desserts.

The 2000s

In the early 2000s, Starbucks continued to expand its menu, adding items such as paninis and wraps. The Starbucks breakfast sandwich, which was introduced in 2001, quickly became a customer favorite.

In 2003, Starbucks began to offer bottled Frappuccinos, which were a hit with customers. The bottled Frappuccinos were available in a variety of flavors, such as mocha, caramel, and vanilla.

In 2005, Starbucks began to offer a variety of “light” items, such as smoothies and salads. These items were designed to be healthier than some of the other items on the menu.

The Present Day

Today, Starbucks continues to innovate and expand its menu. Customers can now find a variety of specialty drinks, such as the Caramel Macchiato or the Cafe Mocha. There is also a selection of breakfast items, including oatmeal, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries.

Starbucks has also begun to offer a variety of healthier options, such as smoothies, salads, and wraps. Customers can also purchase a range of bottled drinks, including the popular Frappuccinos.

Conclusion

Starbucks has come a long way since its founding in 1971. The company has continually innovated and expanded its menu, offering customers a wide variety of specialty drinks, snacks, and food items. From the early days of the Mocha and Latte to the present day offerings of bottled Frappuccinos and breakfast sandwiches, Starbucks has something for everyone.