What Is Starbucks’ Moon Drink? Inside the Viral Iced Matcha and Chai Latte Combo

Starbucks’ viral “Moon Drink” is gaining popularity on social media. The off-menu beverage combines an iced matcha latte with two pumps of chai syrup for a unique flavor experience. Fans say this mix of sweet matcha and spiced chai creates an out-of-this-world taste sensation.

Starbucks' Viral Moon Drink Combines Iced Matcha and Chai for a Unique, Sweet Flavor Experience

Next to the three easy Starbucks customizations that baristas appreciate, one unconventional beverage has gained attention on social media thanks to a unique customer order. Starbucks' elusive "moon drink" (which doesn't appear on the standard menu) is a grande iced matcha latte with two pumps of chai syrup. For Starbucks regulars, adding a shot of espresso to their daily chai or enhancing an iced matcha latte with white mocha syrup isn't unusual. However, combining two distinct tea variations in a single drink creates a complex flavor experience.

Chai, a black tea infused with warming spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, contrasts with matcha, a powdered green tea known for its grassy flavor and robust and complementary aftertaste. According to one TikTok user, this combination of flavors produces a drink that "tastes like the moon herself."

Starbucks' chai syrup and matcha powder contain sugar, resulting in a sweet, milky, and unconventional beverage. While the original moon drink is simply an iced matcha latte with chai syrup, Starbucks enthusiasts have introduced adjustments and upgrades to the recipe over the years.

Fans Suggest Customizations to Enhance Starbucks' Moon Drink, Adding Coconut Milk and Sweet Cream

For some, the combination of iced matcha and chai lacks the impact to justify the "moon" comparison. However, after this recipe made waves on social media, many fans offered suggestions for enhancement. For example, replacing 2% milk with coconut milk imparts a tropical flavor, making the drink creamier and thicker. Some recommend topping the beverage with sweet cream cold foam for a whimsical, moon-inspired twist.

As with any Starbucks drink, there are countless variations to explore. One TikTok user suggests trying an iced chai latte with a scoop of matcha, comparing the flavor to a forest rather than the moon. Others add brown sugar syrup and substitute oat milk for coconut milk.

Though the Moon drink has received mostly positive reviews, some Starbucks customers find the combination of ingredients disappointing. For those who see the drink as too sweet, there's an easy solution—order it half-sweet by requesting less matcha powder and just one pump of chai syrup. While Starbucks' fall menu offers new and returning favorites, those who enjoy unique beverages might be tempted to trade their pumpkin-spiced coffee for the viral moon drink that has taken TikTok by storm.