As autumn settles in Japan, the season’s sweet potato harvest is inspiring a delicious showdown between two popular American-born coffee chains: Starbucks and Tully’s Coffee. Both have introduced special autumn beverages that showcase this beloved root vegetable, but which one comes out on top?
Starbucks’ Yaki-imo Kobashi Caramel Frappuccino: A Sweet Potato Dream
Starbucks Japan has unveiled the “Yaki-imo Kobashi Caramel Frappuccino,” or “Aromatic Baked Sweet Potato Frappuccino,” available for purchase starting September 4. Thanks to an exclusive preview for Starbucks Rewards members, our reporter K. Masami got an early taste of this seasonal treat.
The Yaki-imo Kobashi Caramel Frappuccino is designed to be a sweet potato lover’s paradise. It combines pieces of sweet potato with a creamy, caramel-infused base and is topped with imo kenpi—sugar-coated sweet potato chips. The drink’s rich texture and complex flavors are intended to mimic the taste of a canelé, offering a luxurious experience.
The Frappuccino also comes with an option to substitute oat milk for an additional 55 yen, which Masami opted for. The result? A thick, satisfying beverage that delivers a delightful mix of sweet potato chunks and bitter caramel, creating what Masami describes as “the flavor of happiness.” The Frappuccino is filling and considered worth every yen spent.
Tully’s Coffee Oimo Tea Shake: A Tea and Sweet Potato Fusion
On the other side of the competition, Tully’s Coffee has been serving its “Oimo Tea Shake” since August 28. This drink features a unique blend of black tea and sweet potato, distinguishing it from Starbucks’ offering. Available in Short (690 yen) and Tall (750 yen) sizes, the Oimo Tea Shake is slightly more expensive but boasts a blend of sweet potato sauce and Earl Grey milk tea.
The Oimo Tea Shake is topped with whipped cream, sweet potato sauce, and black sesame seeds. Staff recommend mixing the topping into the beverage for the best experience. When Masami tried it, the first thing that struck her was the aromatic Earl Grey, which beautifully complemented the sweet potato flavor. The result is a harmonious blend that balances the richness of sweet potato with the distinctive notes of tea.
The Verdict: A Close Call
Initially, Masami thought the choice would be clear-cut, but the tasting revealed that both drinks offer unique qualities. The Starbucks Frappuccino excels with its intense sweet potato flavor and creamy texture, while the Tully’s Tea Shake provides a lighter, yet equally satisfying, combination of sweet potato and tea.
Both beverages are available for a limited time—Starbucks’ Frappuccino until October 10 and Tully’s Tea Shake while stocks last. Masami’s recommendation? Try both if you can. Start with Tully’s for a lighter flavor profile, then indulge in Starbucks for a richer, more decadent treat.
In summary, whether you prefer the rich, sweet potato-centric experience of Starbucks or the nuanced blend of sweet potato and tea from Tully’s, autumn in Japan has brought forth two delightful options that are well worth the taste test.
