What Makes Starbucks Japan's Honey Marron Latte Unique
To Americans traveling the world, trying fast food items in other countries is a popular pastime, and Japan is no exception. Although many visitors opt to try traditional Japanese fast foods like sushi, donburi, and yakitori, according to This is Japan, others prefer to marvel at the Japanese creations of their favorite Western chains. After all, who can say no to a McDonald's Filet-O-Shrimp, a juicy, deep-fried shrimp sandwich? Or Wendy's shiratama zenzai, a bowl of mochi, cream, and sweet red beans (via Insider)?
The most well-known Japanese fast food item, however, is arguably the Starbucks Sakura Strawberry Latte, a sweet pink drink that celebrates the cherry blossom season (via Starbucks). Not only did the drink come with a beautiful lineup of flowery merchandise, but it inspired a variety of sakura-themed cakes and pastries at the Starbucks Tokyo Roastery, according to SoraNews24. When it comes to seasonal drinks, it's safe to say that Starbucks Japan doesn't hold back.
Their fall lineup this year will make anyone want to book a one-way ticket to Japan immediately. Move over, PSL; these intricate beverages put autumn flavors at the center and are each specific to a different region of Japan. While they all look delicious, the Honey Marron Latte features a unique blend of tastes that might make even the most seasoned Starbucks customers stop in their tracks.
Sip on sunny chestnut and honey
The brightest of the bunch, the Honey Marron Latte is "inspired by autumn trees shining brightly under the sun," according to Starbucks, making it a lovely accompaniment on that rare fall day when it's not cloudy. It's only fitting that the Honey Marron Latte is made with Starbucks Blonde Roast Espresso, which happens to be the strongest of Starbucks roasts (via Fresh Coffee House). But don't worry; it still embodies all the fall flavors. A sip of the sweet Honey Marron Latte will taste like chestnuts, and it's topped with whipped cream, honey, and candied nuts.
So, where does the marron come in? Although chestnuts (called "kuri" in Japanese) are a staple in Japanese fall cuisine, they're typically called by their French name, "marron," when they're used in sweets (via Guidable). In the fall, chestnuts can be found in everything from monburan, a sponge cake topped with puréed chestnut, to kurimushi yokan, a block of red bean jelly with steamed chestnuts, according to Gurunavi.
If you're dying to get a taste of autumnal Japan, these chestnut desserts are sure to hit the spot. Or, you can soak in the sunshine of the delectable Starbucks Honey Marron Latte; there's really no wrong answer here. You might have to visit Starbucks next year, though, as the Honey Marron Latte was only offered in Central Japan from September 1 to September 20, making it one of the loveliest and most elusive fall drinks.