Japan is Starbucks third global market to introduce Oleato™ beverages, bringing together the unexpected combination of high quality arabica coffee and Partanna® extra virgin olive oil as “The New Coffee Ritual”

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Starbucks announced today the launch of an innovative line of coffee beverages called “Oleato™” an innovative alchemy of Starbucks® finest arabica coffee infused with Partanna® extra virgin olive oil on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at more than 60 select stores across Japan including Starbucks Reserve® Roastery Tokyo.

Following the February debut of&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2023/introducing-starbucks-oleato-a-revolutionary-new-coffee-ritual/">Oleato™ beverages in Italy</a> and March launch at the Starbucks Reserve® Roasteries in Chicago, Seattle and New York, and <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/press/2023/starbucks-oleato-beverages-arrive-at-select-stores-in-the-us/">select stores in the United States</a>, Starbucks third global launch market for the beverage line will be in Japan, where Starbucks began its journey as a global brand outside the North America more than 26 years ago.

Like the iconic Starbucks latte, the origin of Oleato™ beverages began in Italy. While travelling in Italy in the summer of 2022, Howard Schultz, chairman emeritus and board member, Starbucks Coffee Company, came across a generations-old family tradition of enjoying a spoonful of extra virgin olive oil each day as an uplifting ritual. Today, the founder joins partners (employees) and customers in Tokyo for the unveil of this new, transformational ritual in coffee to Japan.

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“Since we first launched in Milan and now in select U.S. markets, the partner pride and customer enthusiasm for Oleato™ has far exceeded our expectations. As we introduce this new coffee innovation to Japan, my time here this week in Tokyo reminds me of the enduring and global relevancy of community, connection, and passion for both coffee and craft,” said Schultz. “We are thrilled to introduce to the Japanese market the next revolution in coffee that brings together an alchemy of nature’s finest ingredients – Starbucks arabica coffee beans and Partanna cold pressed extra virgin olive oil. Oleato™ has opened our eyes to fresh new possibilities for Starbucks.”

“We are excited to bring Starbucks latest beverage innovation to customers in Japan,” said Takafumi Minaguchi, chief executive officer, Starbucks Japan. “Our customers are eager to explore new ways to enjoy their Starbucks Experience. We believe that this transformational innovation of two unexpected ingredients will exceed their expectations and uplift their cup with an extraordinary new flavor.”

Oleato™ beverages are a line of innovative coffee beverages that brings together the unexpected – Starbucks arabica coffee deliciously infused with a spoonful of Partanna cold pressed, extra virgin olive oil. The harmony made possible by the unexpected combination results in a velvety smooth, delicately sweet, and lush coffee that uplifts each cup with extraordinary new flavor and texture. Using only extra virgin olive oil thoughtfully selected and blended to pair perfectly with Starbucks coffee, Oleato™ beverages provide a new coffee ritual like no other.

With its uniquely nutty and slightly sweet flavors and the rich smoothness of a buttery caramel, Partanna olive oils are natural complements to Starbucks coffee. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, the surprisingly luxurious, textural experience is like none other.

Taku Shimizu, group manager, Beverage Development, leading the introduction of Oleato™ beverages to Japan said, “I was thrilled about the launch in Japan of Oleato™ which brings together an alchemy of nature’s finest ingredients, coffee and olive oil. We’ve exercised our creativity to find a way to introduce Oleato™ beverages to Japan while keeping the surprising and inviting experience of its Italian inspiration. With these unique flavors and textures, I am confident that the delicious experience of Oleato™ beverages made possible by Starbucks innovation will become a new coffee ritual of our customers.” 

The following Oleato™ beverages will be available at select stores in Japan starting April 20:

Oleato™ beverages available at the Starbucks Reserve® Roastery Tokyo and select Starbucks Reserve® stores

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Oleato™ beverages available at select stores across Japan

Since opening its first store in Ginza in 1996, Starbucks has opened more than 1,800 stores in Japan, operated by more than 51,000 partners who proudly wear the green apron. Starbucks continues to provide a premium Starbucks Experience to customers across Japan, with locally-relevant beverages like matcha and tea beverages, as well as innovations like seasonal Frappuccino® blended beverages. In 2019, Starbucks opened the Starbucks Reserve® Roastery Tokyo, a fully-immersive tribute to premium coffee quality, innovation and human connection, where extraordinary new coffee experience come to life for customers every day.

Oleato™ beverages arrive at select Starbucks stores in Japan on April 20 : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks Stories Asia

Oleato™ beverages arrive at select Starbucks stores in Japan on April 20

Japan is Starbucks third global market to introduce Oleato™ beverages, bringing together the unexpected combination of high quality arabica coffee and Partanna® extra virgin olive oil.

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https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2023/oleato-beverages-arrive-in-japan/

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Available at Starbucks® stores for a limited time across Asia, reignite summer fun with Starbucks latest beverages.

NEW! STARBUCKS® BELGIUM CHOCOLATE FRAPPUCCINO BLENDED BEVERAGE

Embrace summer with the Belgium Chocolate Coffee Frappuccino® blended beverage. This summer stunner features a blend of rich chocolate sauce and coffee, mixed with Belgium chocolate shavings for added texture. The beverage comes topped with chocolate whipped cream and more Belgium chocolate shavings for extreme chocolatey goodness. Available as a hot, iced or blended handcrafted beverage.

NEW! STARBUCKS® BELGIUM CHOCOLATE NITRO COLD BREW

Make every sunny day count with the Belgium Chocolate Nitro Cold Brew. Enjoy the velvety combination of sweetened smooth coffee topped with creamy chocolate cream and dusted with Belgium chocolate shavings as you bask in summer fun. Available as an iced handcrafted beverage.

NEW! STARBUCKS® CANTALOUPE CREAM FRAPPUCCINO BLENDED BEVERAGE

Enjoy a piece of melon heaven with the Cantaloupe Cream Frappuccino blended beverage. A delectable combination of fruity melon syrup blended with milk and ice, layered on top of a splash of green-colored melon powder, resembling a slice of fresh cantaloupe. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, cantaloupe sauce drizzle and more melon chunks, each sip is refreshing all the way to the end. Available as a blended handcrafted beverage.

NEW! STARBUCKS® OKAYAMA PEACH APPLE STARBUCKS M:LK CREAM™ OOLONG

Cool off the heat with the light and refreshing Okayama Peach Apple M:LK Cream Oolong. This apple-lutely peachy summer beverage featuring aromatic Zen Clouds Oolong tea pairs perfectly with fruity peach apple sauce. Topped with a pillowy layer of plant-based cream topping made from luscious oat milk and rice whipped cream, get ready to transport yourself to Japan with every sip. Available as an iced handcrafted beverage.

NEW! STARBUCKS® OKAYAMA PEACH APPLE COLD BREW

Sip on the Okayama Peach Apple Cold Brew for that ultimate vacation feeling this summer. A perfect summertime pick-me-up blending a refreshing mix of peach apple sauce and lemonade, infused with a slow-steeped cold brew for a smooth feeling. Available as an iced handcrafted beverage.

Welcome the bright, sunny days ahead with Starbucks new summer beverages : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Welcome the bright, sunny days ahead with Starbucks new summer beverages

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Last summer's popular seasonal drink The Melon of Melon Frappuccino® blended beverage returns to stores across Japan starting April 12. Bursting with even more pulp and fruity flavors, the returning favorite kicks off Starbucks Japan's PLAY▷ VIVID SUMMER campaign, featuring colorful new beverages, food and merchandise.

With nearly twice the amount of melon goodness as last year, The Melon of Melon Frappuccino® blended beverage is the sweetest part of summer captured in a cup. Featuring the rich, juicy flavors cantaloupe and honeydew, this beverage is blended with milk and topped with melon-flavored whipped cream for a bright melon aroma with every sip.

Customers in Japan can also enjoy a colorful food menu, including the new Orange &amp; Mango Cake, Strawberry Doughnut, and Banana Cream Doughnut.

Melon of Melon Frappuccino® blended beverage returns to Japan : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Melon of Melon Frappuccino® blended beverage returns to Japan

Last summer's popular seasonal drink The Melon of Melon Frappuccino® blended beverage returns to stores across Japan.

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2023/melon-of-melon-frappuccino-blended-beverage-returns-to-japan/

The newest seasonal menu from Starbucks in Japan is a blast from the past! With vibes of a retro American diner, the new beverages, food and merchandise available for a limited time at Starbucks stores across Japan bring a pop of color, dazzle and nostalgia.

The nostalgic wave continues with a range of limited-edition merchandise inspired by a classic American diner. From mugs, stemmed glasses and pins, check out offerings in store on online at the Starbucks Japan online shop.

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New retro-inspired drinks from Starbucks Japan : Starbucks Stories Asia

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New retro-inspired drinks from Starbucks Japan

Get a blast from the past with a new Americana-inspired menu at Starbucks in Japan.

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Enjoy the season of blossom alongside new spring beverages, food options and merchandise in South Korea for a limited period of time.

Spring Strawberry Milk: A sweet combination of local Seolhyang strawberries and milk that can be enjoyed with plant-based options (oat milk, coconut milk) perfect for the spring season. Available as iced handcrafted beverage.

Lilac Blossom Tea: A colorfully layered beverage that visually expresses ‘lilac blossom’. The sweet taste of acacia honey and herbal notes are reminiscent of lilac with added texture of aloe jelly. Available as a hot and iced handcrafted beverage.

Strawberry Chocolate Cake: Returning for the 3rd time, this delightful cake comes with layers of chocolate whipped cream and strawberry compote, topped with fresh strawberries perfect for the strawberry season.

Strawberry Yogurt Cream Castella: A returning favorite dessert for the spring with yogurt cream and Korean strawberries in soft castella.

Inspired by the fresh colors during the day and charming scenery of the night of cherry blossoms, the spring merchandise collection of drinkware and lifestyle accessories is a must-have for outdoor picnics to admire the bloom of spring.

Embrace a spring state of mind with Starbucks Korea's new seasonal menu and merchandise : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Embrace a spring state of mind with Starbucks Korea&#8217;s new seasonal menu and merchandise

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Embrace a spring state of mind with Starbucks Korea’s new seasonal menu and merchandise

Available at Starbucks® stores for a limited time across Asia, refresh your taste buds with Starbucks latest spring beverages.

NEW! STARBUCKS® PISTACHIO WHITE CHOCOLATE MACCHIATO

Let the good times bloom with Starbucks® Pistachio White Chocolate Macchiato. Enjoy the blissful combination of rich pistachio sauce folded with sweet white chocolate chunks in our classic Macchiato, made with smooth steamed milk, foam, and espresso, creating a delightfully rich, comforting, and nutty beverage. Available as a hot and iced handcrafted beverage.

NEW! STARBUCKS® PISTACHIO WHITE CHOCOLATE FRAPPUCCINO BLENDED BEVERAGE

Energize your every sip with Starbucks® Pistachio White Chocolate Frappuccino blended beverage. The Pistachio White Chocolate Frappuccino® blended beverage is a harmonious blend of sweet and salty– made with milk, ice, Coffee Frappuccino® syrup base, Frappuccino Roast Soluble Coffee, pistachios, and white chocolate chunks. These flavors come together to create soft pistachio green tones, topped with indulgent whipped cream. Available as a blended handcrafted beverage.

NEW! STARBUCKS® STRAWBERRY PIE PURE MATCHA LATTE

Our classic Pure Matcha gets a delightful Strawberry Pie twist, achieving matcha pie-fection with Starbucks® Strawberry Pie Pure Matcha Latte. A soothing combination of Pure Matcha flavor, perfectly balanced with milk and strawberry pie-flavored syrup, this light and fruity aesthetic beverage comes topped with light pink strawberry pie-flavored cold foam and yummy cookie crumble topping. Available as a hot and iced handcrafted beverage.

NEW! STARBUCKS® STRAWBERRY PIE CREAM FRAPPUCCINO

This spring, enjoy crumbly, berry bliss with Starbucks® Strawberry Pie Cream Frappuccino® blended Beverage. A berry creamy blend of strawberry pie flavored syrup, milk, and a swirl of butter strawberry cookie for that extra layer of delightful crunch. The beverage is topped with whipped cream and even more strawberry butter cookie for an extraordinary medley of textures. Available as a blended handcrafted beverage.

STARBUCKS® VANILLA LATTE

Sweeten up your spring season with the classic Starbucks® Vanilla Latte – now adjustable to three different levels of sweetness. A velvety smooth blend of vanilla flavor with bold espresso and creamy milk, enjoy this delicious, yet classic drink in different sweetness levels to brighten your week. Available as a hot and iced handcrafted beverage.

STARBUCKS® CARAMEL MACCHIATO

Add a touch of joy to your day with the Starbucks® Caramel Macchiato. Combining freshly steamed milk with vanilla-flavored concentrate marked with espresso and topped with a caramel drizzle for an oh-so-delightful finish, the Caramel Macchiato is now available with adjustable sweetness. Available as a hot and iced handcrafted beverage.

STARBUCKS® VANILLA SWEET CREAM COLD BREW

Treat yourself to a refreshing beverage with the Starbucks® Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew. This slow-steeped custom blend of Starbucks® Cold Brew coffee accented with vanilla and topped with a delicate float of house-made vanilla sweet cream that cascades throughout the cup is sure to keep you refreshed through the spring season. Customize this beverage by choosing from three levels of sweetness. Available as an iced handcrafted beverage.

Let the good times bloom with Starbucks® latest spring beverages : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Let the good times bloom with Starbucks® latest spring beverages

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The first signs of spring are blooming at Starbucks stores across Japan. Customers can enjoy new seasonal beverages, merchandise and exciting in-store AR experiences on their mobile device for a limited time.

At the Starbucks Reserve® Roastery Tokyo, customers can enjoy six seasonal beverages alongside a spring interpretation of a yearlong favorite, as well as seasonal Princi® baked treats.

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Cherry blossom season arrives at Starbucks in Japan : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Cherry blossom season arrives at Starbucks in Japan

Check out the seasonal beverages, merchandise and more from Starbucks in Japan.

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Available at Starbucks® stores for a limited time, unwind and recharge with new winter beverages across Asia.

NEW! STARBUCKS® HAZELNUT DOLCE LATTE

Enjoy a rich, hazelnutty hug in a mug that will keep you energized with Starbucks® new Hazelnut Dolce Latte. Our signature espresso is layered with creamy milk, slightly sweetened with rich Hazelnut Dolce sauce, and lightly dusted with mocha powder for an invigorating experience. Also available as a hot and iced handcrafted beverage.

NEW! STARBUCKS® HAZELNUT DOLCE FRAPPUCCINO BLENDED BEVERAGE

Cozy up to creamy hazelnut goodness with the all-new Starbucks® Hazelnut Dolce Frappuccino Blended Beverage. Hazelnut Dolce sauce is combined with Starbucks Frappuccino of roasted coffee and milk, blended with ice, and topped with whipped cream and mocha powder for a delicious experience.

NEW! STARBUCKS® ICED JASMINE CLEMENTINE SHAKEN OOLONG TEA WITH PEARLS

Find a new sense of comfort with Starbucks® Iced Jasmine Clementine Shaken Oolong Tea with Pearls. Our floral Teavana™ Zen Clouds Oolong Tea with fresh floral notes is shaken with jasmine clementine sauce for that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. With added blood orange pearls to create an extra layer of texture, this beverage is a refreshing pick-me-up.

NEW! STARBUCKS® JASMINE CLEMENTINE PURE MATCHA LATTE

Unwind and recharge from the holidays with the Jasmine Clementine Pure Matcha Latte, serving up sweet citrus and floral notes for a soothing twist. Relish this unique combination of jasmine citrus-flavored milk topped with shots of lightly sweetened matcha for a full-bodied beverage. Also available as a hot and iced handcrafted beverage.

Keep warm with Starbucks comforting new winter line-up : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Keep warm with Starbucks comforting new winter line-up

Unwind and recharge with Starbucks new winter beverages across Asia.

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Starting November 30, Starbucks stores across Japan will offer two new seasonal holiday beverages, in addition to the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/starbucks-spreads-holiday-cheer-in-japan/">delicious offerings launched earlier this season</a>.

The new Butter Caramel Mille-Feuille Frappuccino® blended beverage is inspired by the buttery layers of the French millefeuille pastry. The drink combines the crispy, crunchy texture of pie crust with rich sweet custard sauce and caramel sauce, topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of butter caramel. The new Butter Caramel Mille-Feuille Latte brings together Starbucks signature espresso with rich butter caramel sauce and gently steamed milk, topped with whipped cream and buttery pie crust crumbles. Enjoy the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Z_Jk15lzjFM">sensory delights</a> of these seasonal holiday beverages, available for a limited time.

As Starbucks Japan continues to give back to communities through its holiday Let’s Be a Santa giving program, customers can support joy through the season with their holiday beverage purchases, and enjoy exclusive seasonal moments. Starbucks Japan is once again collaborating with pop sensation Hirai Dai, who was inspired by Starbucks spirit of giving to write the song “Love &amp; Happiness (Let’s Be a Santa)” which will be streamed in Starbucks Stores across Japan beginning November 30, before the song is released to the public.

Customers and fans can celebrate the song’s official release on December 6 with the customized “Love &nbsp;&amp; Happiness” Dark Mocha Chip Cream Frappuccino® blended beverage, made with almondmilk. The beautiful taste of chocolate and almonds lingers on the tongue in the same way the gentle voice of Hirai Dai lingers in the air this holiday season.

Starbucks serves holiday “Love & Happiness” in Japan : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks serves holiday “Love &#038; Happiness” in Japan

Enjoy the spirit of the season in Japan with delicious beverages that give back.

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Starbucks serves holiday “Love & Happiness” in Japan

Located at a bustling intersection in Brisbane’s business district, Starbucks Edward Street welcomes customers from two entrances at the street level. Customers seeking a moment of tranquility can descend to the store’s lower floor and immerse themselves in botanical artwork depicting abstract coffee landscapes. Those looking for a change of scene when hosting work meetings can also make use of the store’s meeting room, which can be booked to cater for groups.

At this flagship store in Cambodia’s capital of Phnom Penh, customers are up for a treat at the Reserve bar, and under a light sculpture inspired by the coffee aroma. Here they can chat with Starbucks baristas and discover some of the finest coffees from around the world. A magnificent hand-painted mural of the Siren in a shape of a Cambodian Naga, illustrated by prominent local urban artists, Peap Tarr and Lisa Mam, highlight the distinct beauty of urban Khmer art while invite everyone to go upstairs and find a nice cozy spot to relax.

The city’s first flagship store is in the heart of Hong Kong's Causeway Bay district. Step inside to enjoy a stunning glass façade that brightens this premium urban retreat. Customers can take in the beautiful layers of light, materials, and textures, while enjoying Starbucks Reserve coffee or sampling a variety of tea blends at Hong Kong’s very first Teavana Bar. Don’t forget to look up at the sculpted ceiling, made from more than 330 triangular timber panels, inspired by the shape of coffee trees and landscapes of coffee farms.

As one of our first stores in Jaipur, the Pink City, this store is inspired by the grand architectural masterpieces in the city. The interior design of the store is filled with elements reminiscent to the city’s historic landscape. The light and colorful palette in the store strikes balance between joyful nostalgia and a contemporary coffeehouse atmosphere with thoughtful local custom-made artworks integrated into the interior of the store. In the main seating area, organza cloth murals with embroidery crafted using traditional Rajasthan handicraft technique are featured within the arches, creating a glimpse into the majestic scenery of a coffee farm. Beyond the bar at the intimate seating room are 12 custom pottery plates inspired by Jaipur’s famous blue pottery. Each plate tells a story of the coffee growing process and adorned with inspiration of fauna. 

Located in the heart of Bali, Indonesia, the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2019/starbucks-opens-one-of-a-kind-coffee-sanctuary-in-bali-indonesia/">Starbucks Dewata Coffee Sanctuary</a> is the perfect destination for coffee lovers to spend hours immersing themselves and learning about the coffee journey from seed to cup. Drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the island, the store has been designed using local materials crafted by local artists and artisans. The store celebrates the unique and distinct flavors of Indonesian coffee and heritage, and the Indonesian farmers that make these coffees possible, while providing customers with a rich, interactive and memorable experience.

From coffee sourcing, processing, roasting, and brewing, the store will guide you through the entire seed-to-cup coffee journey. You can sign up for some of the workshops, get a guided tour or simply find your way around this unique store. If you are lucky, you might be able to see the green beans become full of flavour when roasted on site, at the recently opened <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/coffee-experience-center-at-starbucks-dewata/">Coffee Experience Centre</a>.

In Malaysia, <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2021/starbucks-opens-largest-starbucks-reserve-store-in-malaysia/">Starbucks Reserve Tropicana Gardens</a> celebrates all things coffee. The layout of the store is designed in the shape of a whole coffee bean, with a large curvature and floor-to-ceiling windows. Featuring two bars: a main bar and a Reserve bar that offers six brewing methods, customers can explore a range of exotic coffees, ethically sourced from more than 30 countries, while enjoying unparalleled service from our coffee masters.

The 220 Queen Street store in Auckland, right in the heart of the Auckland Central Business District, is a hub for hot-deskers and a meeting place for all coffee lovers in the city. Featuring a newly designed and modern storefront and coffee bar, and vivid blue and green interiors, inspired by New Zealand coastal lines provide a calm and welcoming atmosphere. The hand-painted artwork featuring the Starbucks Siren is the best spot for a selfie. Anyone stepping foot in this space will leave with a renewed sense of energy.

Macapagal DT is one of the largest Starbucks stores in the Philippines. Although it is a drive thru store, the café extends throughout two large levels, with the bar as the centrepiece of the space. A common skywalk on the upper level connects the store with other buildings nearby. Touches of warm mahogany wood create a cozy third place for customers to relax in many of the different seating areas, while the custom timber artwork, depicting the different coffee regions around the world, adds a nice touch of colour to this impressive space.

For those traveling through Singapore, you shouldn’t miss the Jewel Changi Airport Store. Located in the airport, the two-story flagship store is a must-visit as it gives travelers a place to unwind over a cup of premium, single-origin coffee. Here customers are greeted by the beautifully layered wooden storefront that extends over the two floors, inspired by the textures of coffee farm landscapes. You can sit at the round bar and talk to the friendly baristas or if you want a more quiet place, on the upper floor, you will find the perfect atmosphere to relax and appreciate the unique original artwork collection featuring artists from Asia Pacific and beyond.

Opened in 2021 to mark Starbucks 22nd year in South Korea, the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2021/beautiful-new-starbucks-store-opens-in-south-korea/">Starbucks Byuldabang store</a> in Seoul offers an immersive Starbucks Experience. The store features a convenient pick-up area at on the store front for those on-the-go and a cozy fireplace towards the back, for those looking to wind down and relax. The modern space also boasts a coffee seminar area for workshops and different seats and spaces to cater for different occasions. But the main highlight of this store is the large digital art wall installation, portraying digital artwork that rotates seasonally, showcasing beautiful scenes from Starbucks Hacienda Alsacia farm in Costa Rica or the journey of the Starbucks Siren.

A must visit for anyone in Hualien City, the Starbucks Hualien Bay Mall is a store like none other. The building for this drive-thru store, was designed by the acclaimed Japanese Architect, Kengo Kuma, out of 29 repurposed shipping containers. Just as Starbucks cup sleeves insulate customers’ hands from a hot beverage, “wood sleeves” were installed inside the white shipping containers to create a warm and comfortable space for customers. The intersecting container arrangement creates a tall and intriguing structure, that becomes even more interesting when you head inside to enjoy a view of the Hualien County Mountain ranges with a beverage in hand.

Offering panoramic views over the iconic Chao Phraya River that flows through Bangkok’s vibrant urban center, the <a href="https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2021/starbucks-unveils-largest-store-in-thailand/">Starbucks Reserve Chao Phraya Riverfront store</a> is perfect for relaxing with a signature handcrafted beverage in hand or why not enjoying the sunset with an espresso martini from the mixology bar. The store is the first to offer many features, including the first to ever serve Starbucks unique Muan Jai™ Blend, which means “wholehearted happiness,” sourced in collaboration with Northern Thai coffee farming communities. As you spend time here, you will find surprises at every step. From the curated artwork including a piece by Thai artist Rukkit Kuanhawate, to the ceiling inspired by the Yi Peng lantern festival; this is a place to spend time at and unwind. Enjoy your favorite beverage from the mezzanine or on the outdoor terrace, overlooking the river, while you continue to plan your day around Bangkok.

Surrounded by the lush greenery of Summer Park, Starbucks Ecopark is just 15km from central Hanoi. Striking a balance between rural and urban aesthetics, this store offers a truly unique Starbucks Experience. With the use of natural finishes such as wooden louvers that run through the ceiling walls, this store amplifies the relaxing mood of the surrounding gardens. Why not grab a handcrafted beverage and soak up the calming vibes?

13 Starbucks stores to visit in Asia Pacific : Starbucks Stories Asia

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13 Starbucks stores to visit in Asia Pacific

Visit these 13 beautiful Starbucks Stores in your next trip in Asia.

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/13-starbucks-stores-to-visit-in-asia-pacific/

A coffee newbie turned Regional Barista Champion; a barista who became a district manager; a regional latte art coach who shares her love of coffee; and a Regional Coffee Stories Champion who now shares her coffee knowledge online: meet four Starbucks partners reaching new heights through their passion for coffee.

Yong: A love for coffee that has carried her around the world

When Nopparat Arpornsuwan, known as “Yong,” started working at Starbucks Thailand in 2002, her favorite beverage was hot chocolate. But her passion for coffee was sparked when she experienced her first coffee tasting through a fellow barista’s demonstration instore. “My first coffee love was a Caffe Verona pairing with a chocolate fudge brownie,” she says.

Since then, Yong’s love for coffee has grown, and through her passion and dedication in crafting the perfect cup for customers, she has progressed from part-time barista to District Coffee Master and became the district manager of the Langsuan-Chidlom area. In 2016, she took up the challenge to participate at the Regional Barista Championship in Hong Kong, where she won against competition from across the Asia Pacific region to be crowned Regional Barista Champion.

Yong was determined to make Thailand proud through her coffee craft. “The Championship was my first business trip abroad, and I wanted to show everyone my culture, and how there’s been a smile at every step of my coffee-making journey,” says Yong.

As Asia Pacific’s barista champion, Yong was invited to Seattle to experience working as a barista at the original Starbucks Pike Place store, and visited the Starbucks Reserve Roastery. “It was a dream come true to share my coffee craft with our partners and customers in Seattle,” says Yong. “I miss them every day!”

Sharing her passion for coffee is now a big part of her life. Yong now invites partners on coffee journeys through sharing her knowledge and skills on coffee craftmanship, inspiring partners the same way she was inspired in the beginning. Her advice to aspiring baristas: “Come and explore the world of coffee. Leave your comfort zone and experience new things like I did in the Barista Championship. You have no idea how far your coffee journey could take you.”

Miguel: A flourishing career shaped by his passion for coffee

“I have been here for eight years, starting when I was only 21,” says Miguel Bautista from Starbucks Philippines. “My journey guided me as I matured in life.”

Like Yong, Miguel’s coffee journey started from the very beginning. He came to Starbucks because he trusted the brand and saw it as a leader in the Philippines, not because he loved coffee or knew much about it. “I just thought I needed a job, and might as well work for a brand that I trust,” he says.

Miguel has never been more nervous than on his first day with the company. But his attention was quickly taken by the way partners worked with each other and interacted with customers. After witnessing that, he says “I knew I had made the right choice.” His curiosity developed as he learned from his colleagues, particularly his mentor, the District Manager.

Fast-forward to the present day, and Miguel is now a Coffee Master, and Coffee Ambassador of Starbucks Philippines.

And only three years after joining as a part-time barista, Miguel won the first Starbucks Philippines Barista Championship, in 2017. When he entered the competition, he didn’t think he would be able to deliver, but his district manager supported him every step of the way.

“When they announced me as the winner, I didn’t know how to feel. I didn’t realize what winning meant until my family and colleagues greeted me back at the airport.” They had made a banner congratulating him. “It made me so emotional to know my story touched the hearts of so many people. It inspired me even more,” says Miguel.

Since winning, his passion for coffee has grown and grown. Miguel has helped train partners, opened Reserve stores, and met customers from different places who were inspired by his story. And alongside that coffee journey, Miguel has grown in his role and responsibilities. He’s progressed from barista to barista trainer, to shift supervisor, to store manager trainee. He now aspires to become a district manager.

Reflecting on his time with Starbucks Miguel says, “My Starbucks journey is the best I have ever had. My experiences have helped me to look at the beauty in everything. Believe in yourself despite the challenges that may seem hard to overcome.”

Evelyn: Learning and growing through competition

Evelyn Chiu from Taiwan always tells aspiring baristas, “You don’t have to be great to start, but you do have to start to be great.”

In her time with Starbucks, Evelyn has been inspired to improve her coffee skills through competitions, and is now passionate about sharing latte art. For her, Starbucks is a place where you can thrive and develop your skills.

Evelyn joined Starbucks as a barista in 2018. Her enthusiasm for coffee grew as she learned on the job, and met more people through coffee. “I had a lot of questions of coffee at first,” she says. “I found that the more I learned about coffee, the more attractive it became to me.”

The passion and enthusiasm of other partners also inspired her, and the results are clear. She became a supervisor within a year of joining. The next year she became a Coffee Master.

In 2021, Evelyn was crowned the Starbucks Taiwan Latte Art Champion. She’s trained contestants from Taiwan for Latte Art competitions, and was a special judge for the Singapore Latte Art Throwdown, an experience she calls, “unforgettable”.

The competitions have been fun experiences for Evelyn, but above all, they’ve been opportunities to learn and grow. “From my first competition onwards, I have had the mindset that I want to test my skills. Competitions have always been a way to enhance my abilities.”

Evelyn has also converted her friends and family into coffee enthusiasts: her mom now enjoys different roasts, and her friend is now experimenting too. “It feels like a real accomplishment when I help people love and understand coffee.”

She also shares her passion by conducting online lectures about latte art, and has become the region’s latte art coach. "Every day is busy, but also fulfilling,” she says.

Evelyn’s next ambition is even greater: “I want to stand on the world stage of latte art.”

Shafiqah: Challenging herself by learning every day

Shafiqah from Singapore educates customers and partners about coffee using social media – for example sharing information about ethical sourcing on YouTube.

That meant pushing herself always be learning – something she’s continued in her current role. “As a barista, I continuously seek out coffee knowledge. If I learn something that I did not know before, I share it with other partners.”

In 2021, she won the Title of Regional Coffee Stories Champion. “It was a great honor and pleasure for me to be able to represent my partners in Singapore and make them proud,” she says. “I joined the competition as the theme of sustainability resonates with what I believe strongly about, which is to leave a legacy behind for future generations.”

She shared her coffee passion by hosting a coffee tasting for partners from the Asia Pacific region. It’s something she believes motivated more partners to enter coffee competitions. She is also continuing to inspire others as a guest judge for Starbucks Singapore competitions.

Shafquah’s next goal is to win a spot or even a title at the National Coffee Competition. That means she’s spending even more time immersing herself in the world of coffee. “Coffee has so much more going on behind it than meets the eye”, she says.

“With a wider audience, I hope to make coffee more accessible and enable more people to appreciate and learn about it.”

She tells aspiring baristas to challenge themselves by being open to continuous learning. “There is so much to know about coffee that the learning does not stop. The connection people have with coffee is so magical. Nothing beats it.”

Meet Four Starbucks partners reaching their personal bests through their passion for coffee : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Meet Four Starbucks partners reaching their personal bests through their passion for coffee

A coffee newbie turned Regional Barista Champion; a barista who became a district manager; a regional latte art coach who shares her love of coffee; and a Regional Coffee Stories Champion who now shares her coffee knowledge online: meet four Starbucks partners reaching new heights through their passion for coffee. Yong: A love for coffee […]

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/meet-four-starbucks-partners-reaching-their-personal-bests-through-their-passion-for-coffee/

8,535 lattes, 35 brewed coffees, 16 French Presses and 300 espresso-based beverages.&nbsp; This is the number of beverages passionate Starbucks partners handcrafted at the China, Japan and Asia Pacific Regional Barista Championships 2022.

From 11 to 20 October 2022, after months of market competitions which saw 17,775&nbsp;partners compete for a coveted place in the regional championships, 60 Starbucks partners from 14 markets made it to the regional competition.&nbsp;

The two-week virtual championships saw competitors come together to compete across three competitions; Coffee Stories, Latte Art and a new event for Green Apron partners, designed to celebrate teamwork and elevate beverage quality and customer experience, the Ultimate Barista Team Challenge.

Congratulations to the three competition Champions and to all partners who participated

Coffee Stories Champion - Victoria Kater, Starbucks Philippines Market Latte Art Champion - Irwan Syahril Fajar, Starbucks Indonesia Market Ultimate Barista Team Challenge - Starbucks Thailand Market partners Phakamat Kenglee, Phiraphat Phraaphaiwong, Hathairat Kaewprachu Thoop

Victoria, Coffee Stories Champion, said “This has been an amazing journey filled with learning and growth and it has been honour to represent my market. This competition gave me the chance to showcase how Starbucks creates a sustainable coffee future for all and a platform to be able to inspire other partners to do the same and help where they can.”

This year’s competition submissions raised the bar, making the job of our experienced judging panel even more difficult.&nbsp; After the excitement of the semifinals, the finalists competed for the title of Champion in the Grand Final, as partners cheered them on online and at watch parties across the region.

Irwan, Latte Art Champion, was overwhelmed by the support he received and had a special message for partners.&nbsp; “I thank you for being a support system for me…without the help and support of a team I would not have been able to give my best performance.

An event for all partners

The championships were not just an event for competitors. Partners across the region joined the fun through the new Coffee Community website, watching LIVE competitions, earning cherries on the website, creating their own barista avatars and pouring their own latte art.&nbsp;

This year, the Pour Your Heart Challenge really captured the imagination of our partners with 4 latte art challenges held over the two weeks; heart, rosetta, tulip and swan.&nbsp; 8,369 talented partners submitted their designs which were reviewed by a team of dedicated HKSC judges, with the top 10 from each design celebrated on the @partnercoffeestories Instagram and shared through the RBC e-newsletter.

Celebrating our partners' love for coffee

The Regional Barista Championships is not only a showcase of barista skill and craft, it also provides an opportunity to create moments of connection and storytelling over coffee and embraces the Starbucks mission and values.&nbsp; Inspired by our partners and their passion for coffee, this annual event is truly a platform to celebrate their commitment to working to ensure a sustainable future of coffee for all.

“Our partners are the heart and core of Starbucks and I am so proud of the work our baristas do every day, and I am delighted that we are able to hold an event in our region that represents the work of our green and black apron partners that creates meaningful moment for our customers,” said Emmy Kan, president, Asia Pacific Region. “This event continues to inspire me in what is possible through passion for coffee and connections”.

Starbucks celebrates partners’ coffee talent and craft at Barista Championships 2022 : Starbucks Stories Asia

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Starbucks celebrates partners’ coffee talent and craft at Barista Championships 2022

Starbucks celebrates coffee talent and passion at Barista Championships in Asia Pacific.

https://stories.starbucks.com/asia/stories/2022/starbucks-celebrates-partners-coffee-talent-and-craft-at-barista-championships-2022/

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