(SPOT.ph) Starbucks has become the kind of place for just grabbing a cup of joe and maybe a pastry while you're on the go, and even though that's still very much true, their new Starbucks Reserve branch at The Stratosphere in Salcedo Village might convince you to linger. The pretty mermaid-themed accents (remember to look up at the ceiling!) makes you want to stay and take a few photos, too. Plus, Starbucks Reserve has new, exclusive drinks and food that are sure to make your mornings a little sweeter.
Starbucks now offers the classic Flat White (P155/tall, P170/grande, P185/venti) not just in their Reserve stores, but in all Starbucks branches. And while the silky micro-foam topped espresso drink has always been available off the menu, it's nice to finally be able to order it openly. Exclusive to Reserve branches, on the other hand, is the soothing Starbucks Hazelnut Bianco (P220/tall, P235/grande), with a nutty-sweet flavor that'll make non-coffee drinkers slurp happily. The Americano Con Crema (P195/tall, P210/grande), meanwhile, is a smooth espresso-based drink topped with toasted Demerara sugar, a zesty orange-piloncillo syrup, and a coffee-spice foam.
Also new on the Reserve menu are pastries that'll make you want to have breakfast at the nearest branch regularly. A standout is the Kouign Amann (P95), a pastry that finds its roots in the northwestern part of France. Like an extra buttery croissant, the Kouign Amann also benefits from an extra crunchy crust of caramelized sugar. For a bit of zest, have the refreshing Lemon Meringue Tart (P110), while the Cookies & Cream Muffin (P95) is surprisingly moist and airy for its hefty size, and comes studded with Oreo cookies.
If you'd rather have something savory, Starbucks now offers two equally hearty soups: The Mushroom Soup (P140) certainly doesn't lack rich, earthy flavors from a mix of shiitake and button mushrooms, while the Apple Pumpkin Soup (P140) has a nutty spice to it that'll remind you of Christmas.
See a list of Starbucks branches. All menu items are available at Starbucks Reserve branches only (except for the Flat White).