If you want strong, concentrated coffee at Starbucks, the espresso menu is where you look. Every handcrafted coffee drink starts from espresso shots — so understanding them helps you order exactly what you want. Here's the full espresso lineup with 2026 prices.
What is espresso at Starbucks?
Espresso is coffee brewed under high pressure with finely ground beans, producing a small, thick, intense shot. Starbucks offers a standard Signature Roast espresso and a lighter Blonde Espresso, which is smoother and slightly higher in caffeine. Shots come as solo (1), doppio (2), triple (3) and quad (4).
Espresso shots & prices
| Size | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso (Solo) | $3.76 | 5 cal |
| Espresso (Doppio) | $4.19 | 10 cal |
| Espresso (Triple) | $4.30 | 15 cal |
| Espresso (Quad) | $4.63 | 20 cal |
| Espresso Con Panna (Solo) | $3.87 | 30 cal |
Espresso-based drinks
Most of the menu is espresso plus milk in different ratios. Here's how the classics compare (Grande):
| Size | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Caffè Latte | $5.47 | 190 cal |
| Cappuccino | $5.80 | 140 cal |
| Flat White | $6.80 | 220 cal |
| Caramel Macchiato | $6.80 | 250 cal |
| Caffè Mocha | $6.24 | 370 cal |
| Caffè Americano | $4.66 | 15 cal |
| Cortado (Short) | $5.72 | 90 cal |
The difference comes down to milk and ratio: a cappuccino has more foam, a flat white uses a ristretto shot and steamed milk, a latte has the most milk, and an Americano is just shots plus hot water. For a deeper look at milk drinks, see our latte and mocha breakdowns.
Ordering tips
- Want it stronger? Ask for Blonde Espresso or an extra shot (about +$0.90).
- Want it smaller and bolder? A Cortado or Flat White has a higher coffee-to-milk ratio than a latte.
- Cheapest caffeine hit: a solo or doppio shot, or an Americano.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a shot of espresso at Starbucks?
A solo shot is roughly $2.75–$3.76 depending on the store.
Which has more caffeine, Blonde or Signature espresso?
Blonde Espresso has slightly more caffeine and a smoother, lighter taste.
What's the difference between a latte and a flat white?
A flat white uses ristretto shots and less milk, making it stronger and creamier than a latte.