A Starbucks customer, Emilyn (@everythingemilyn), recently shared a surprising experience involving an unexpected charge for two tap waters. After ordering two waters with strawberries, they were shocked to find their bill totaled $11 instead of the usual 80 cents for the added strawberries. Upon checking the receipt, Emilyn discovered the charge was for “custom tea” and the strawberry infusion, bringing the cost to over $4.50 per drink.
Starbucks has a policy offering free tap water, but some locations, especially licensed stores, may charge a cup fee. Emilyn’s situation, however, raised questions about the “custom tea” option, a label for orders like fruit-infused waters. While some baristas explained that it’s necessary to ring up such requests as custom teas, Emilyn sought a refund and received their $11 back.
The viral TikTok video sparked widespread discussion, with viewers speculating whether this pricing change reflects new Starbucks practices.
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