The Starbucks Order Trick For Cheaper Americanos

The Caffè Americano is without a doubt one of Starbucks' classic coffee drink staples, up there with frothy lattes, sweet Frappuccinos, and the like. But, unlike the former, which contains steamed milk for a creamier mouthfeel, an Americano features shots of the brand's full-bodied Signature Espresso Roast diluted with water for a bolder flavor that's more akin to a drip coffee. You could certainly whip up a homemade version of this two-ingredient drink in your kitchen, but buying it already made lends a certain time-saving and, let's be honest, soul-soothing appeal that's not easily attained at home. 

The downside of opting for Starbucks, however, is that it sure can be pricey, especially if you tend to order from the iconic coffee chain on the regular. The good news is that the chain's Americano is one of its least expensive menu offerings. And, there's a simple Starbucks customizing hack that'll make ordering this rich drink even cheaper, and it involves opting for espresso shots with added water instead.

Ordering an Americano at Starbucks will typically run you about $3.95 for a size grande, depending on where you live, of course. But, instead of asking the barista for a grande Caffè Americano, DIY instead by opting for a triple shot of espresso in the 16-fluid-ounce cup and customizing your order to include hot water as an add-in. This will cost only $3.25, saving you about $0.70 — a fairly moderate amount, but one that can add up quickly if you frequent Starbucks a lot. 

Moreover, for those who enjoy adding syrup or other tasty add-ins to their drink, which typically incur an additional charge, this is a great way to sneak in delicious flavors and toppings without having to pay much extra.

If you prefer a different size — such as a short, tall, or venti, which contains one, two, and four espresso shots, respectively — you can still rake in about the same amount of savings, give or take a few cents. And, for those who like their Americanos a little on the cooler side, this ordering trick works just the same if you'd prefer an iced espresso beverage, too.

The espresso hack isn't the only way to get cheaper beverages at Starbucks. You can satisfy your coffee cravings while saving money at the same time, especially if you opt to split Starbucks drinks with a friend. After all, sharing is caring — and, apparently, far less expensive. All you have to do is ask your barista to split up a standard drink into two smaller cups, a request they're usually happy to accommodate. However, the worst-case scenario is that you can order a venti and then ask for two tall cups so that you can divvy up the drink yourself.

You can also make the most of Starbucks' free drink refills by using your Starbucks card or app to buy a drink and then presenting either of the two to the cashier again to get a free refill. It's important to note that this only works at participating locations, includes just coffee or tea (including iced), and is only redeemable during the same visit. 

And, following a short ban on reusable cups at the start of the coronavirus pandemic, Starbucks is once again serving drinks in personal reusable cups again. So, if you'd like to take advantage of the brand's $0.10 discount, consider bringing your own cup to Starbucks instead.