TL;DR:
- Starbucks introduces a pork-flavoured coffee, the “Abundant Year Savory Latte,” in China to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
- The unique drink features Dongpo Braised Pork Flavor Sauce mixed with espresso and steamed milk, priced at 68 yuan ($9.45).
- The creation has sparked curiosity and scepticism among Chinese social media users, with mixed reactions to its taste and concept.
Starbucks has unveiled an unconventional drink in China as the Lunar New Year approaches, blending the savoury taste of braised pork with coffee. Dubbed the “Abundant Year Savory Latte,” this creation aims to capture the essence of the festive season with a flavour that’s both intriguing and bold.
According to CNN, the latte incorporates a Dongpo Braised Pork Flavor Sauce into the classic combination of espresso and steamed milk, with extra pork sauce and pork breast meat as a garnish.
Priced at 68 yuan, or about $9.45, the latter is more than just a beverage; it’s a symbol of prosperity for the year ahead, as suggested by Starbucks in a statement released just days before the Lunar New Year festivities began. This notion stems from the cultural belief that consuming meat signifies wealth and success in the coming year.
The introduction of the pork latte has certainly caught the eye of many on Chinese social media platforms. While there’s a sense of curiosity around this novel offering, most users express scepticism. The debate primarily revolves around its unusual combination and the rationale behind choosing this latte over traditional braised pork dishes, especially considering its price point.
Despite the mixed reviews, some customers have described the latte as having a “unique flavour” that is “dense and smooth,” according to Jupai News.
This bold move by Starbucks showcases the brand’s innovative approach to menu creation, especially in markets like China, where the Lunar New Year is a significant celebration. Whether the “Abundant Year Savory Latte” becomes a seasonal favourite or remains a curious experiment demonstrates Starbucks’ willingness to explore new culinary frontiers.
