“We’re beefing,” expressed one frustrated Instagram user, capturing the sentiments of many Starbucks fans as the company prepares to unveil its summer menu for 2026 on May 12. The anticipation surrounding the new offerings is palpable, but so is the disappointment over some fan-favorite drinks that will not be making a return this year.
This summer, Starbucks introduces the Tropical Butterfly Refresher, a vibrant drink featuring passionfruit, guava, and mango-pineapple pearls, all enhanced by a striking purple hue from butterfly pea flower infusion. Alongside this new addition, the Iced Horchata Shaken Espresso will make a comeback, delighting customers with its blend of blonde espresso and horchata syrup. Additionally, a new Horchata Frappuccino will be available, promising to add a creamy twist to the summer lineup.
Returning to the menu is the beloved Unicorn Cake Pop, which features a vanilla cake base adorned with confetti sprinkles and coated in white chocolate. This nostalgic treat has become a staple for many Starbucks patrons, and its return is sure to bring joy to those who have missed it.
However, not all news is positive. Fans have expressed their disappointment over the absence of drinks like the Summer Berry Refresher and the Unicorn Frappe, which has not been seen since 2024. “THE PEOPLE WANT THE UNICORN FRAP AT EVERY STORE NOT JUST COACHELLA,” another Instagram user lamented, referencing the limited return of the Unicorn Frappe for the Coachella music festival.
Starbucks has a history of seasonal menu updates, often featuring a mix of new and returning items that cater to diverse tastes. This year, the summer menu continues that tradition with tropical refreshers and nostalgic flavors, aiming to capture the essence of summer in every sip.
Adding to the excitement, Starbucks will launch a summer merchandise collection, including a special collaboration with Miffy, set to debut on May 19. This partnership is expected to attract both coffee lovers and fans of the iconic character, further enhancing the summer experience at Starbucks.
As the launch date approaches, customers are eagerly awaiting the new menu while also voicing their hopes for the return of their favorite drinks. “I don’t go to overpriced concerts. Bring it back to the stores or I’ll never go to Starbucks again, I am so sick of asking for 9 years,” another user expressed, highlighting the ongoing demand for the Unicorn Frappe.
With the summer menu just around the corner, Starbucks enthusiasts are left to wonder how the new offerings will stack up against the beloved classics that are missing this season. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential surprise additions or changes before the official launch.