Starbucks Coffee Cups with Side Handles: Are They Still Available?

Quick answer

• Starbucks has offered various ceramic mugs with side handles over the years, often as seasonal or limited-edition items.
• Availability can vary significantly by location and time of year.
• Some classic designs, like the “city mugs,” may still be found in select stores or online.
• Customers often find similar-style mugs with side handles from other retailers.
• Checking the Starbucks online store or visiting physical locations is the best way to determine current stock.
• The demand for these specific mugs fluctuates, influencing their production and availability.

Key terms and definitions

• Ceramic Mug: A cup made from fired clay, typically glazed for durability and a smooth finish, commonly used for hot beverages.
• Side Handle: An attachment on the side of a mug designed for a comfortable and secure grip.
• Limited Edition: Products released in a restricted quantity or for a specific period, making them less common after their initial offering.
• Seasonal Item: Merchandise specifically made available during certain times of the year, such as holidays or specific seasons.
• City Mug: A popular line of Starbucks collectible mugs featuring designs representing various cities and landmarks.
• Merchandise: Goods or products offered for sale by a company, beyond its primary food and beverage offerings.
• Retailer: A business that sells goods directly to consumers.
• Collectible: An item that is sought after by collectors, often due to its rarity, historical significance, or aesthetic appeal.
• Online Store: A website where customers can purchase products directly from the company.
• In-Store Availability: Whether a product can be purchased at a physical brick-and-mortar location.

How it works

• Starbucks designs and manufactures a range of drinkware, including mugs with side handles, through various suppliers.
• These mugs are distributed to Starbucks stores across different regions.
• Production runs for specific mug designs are often planned based on anticipated demand, seasonal trends, or marketing campaigns.
• Limited edition or seasonal mugs are produced in finite quantities and are typically phased out once their run is complete.
• The company’s online store acts as a central hub for available merchandise, though inventory can differ from physical stores.
• Store managers have some discretion in ordering merchandise, which can lead to regional variations in stock.
• Customer feedback and sales data influence future product development and the reintroduction of popular designs.
• The supply chain logistics ensure that merchandise reaches the designated sales channels.
• New designs are introduced periodically to refresh the product offerings and appeal to customer interest.
• Older or less popular designs may be discontinued to make way for new items.

What affects the result

• Design Popularity: Highly sought-after designs are produced in larger quantities, but can still sell out quickly.
• Seasonal Cycles: Mugs themed for holidays like Christmas or fall are often available only during those specific periods.
• Limited Production Runs: Many unique mugs are intentionally made in limited numbers, increasing their scarcity.
• Regional Distribution: What’s available in one Starbucks store might not be in another due to differing order preferences.
• Online vs. In-Store Inventory: The Starbucks website may have different stock levels than individual physical locations.
• Merchandise Strategy: Starbucks’ overall product strategy dictates which types of mugs are prioritized for production and sale.
• Supplier Availability: The ability of manufacturers to produce the mugs on schedule can impact stock.
• Customer Demand: High demand can lead to rapid sell-outs, making a mug appear unavailable even if it was recently in stock.
• Discontinuation: Designs are eventually retired to make way for new merchandise.
• Third-Party Sellers: While not directly from Starbucks, some third-party sellers may offer previously available mugs.
• Promotional Periods: Special offers or events can sometimes feature specific drinkware.
• Store Size and Traffic: Larger stores or those in high-traffic areas might receive different allocations of merchandise.

Pros, cons, and when it matters

• Pro: Comfortable Grip: Side handles offer a secure and ergonomic way to hold hot beverages, reducing the risk of spills. This is ideal for those who prefer a more traditional mug feel.
• Con: Limited Availability: Starbucks often releases mugs with side handles as limited or seasonal items, meaning they can be hard to find and may disappear quickly.
• Pro: Collectibility: Many Starbucks mugs, especially city-themed ones or those with unique designs, are collected by enthusiasts. A mug with a side handle can be a desirable addition to a collection.
• Con: Potential for Breakage: Ceramic mugs, regardless of handle style, can break if dropped. A handle, while useful, can also be a point of breakage.
• Pro: Aesthetic Appeal: Mugs with side handles can come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and finishes, adding to the visual appeal of one’s kitchen or desk.
• Con: Space Consumption: Mugs with prominent side handles can take up more space in cabinets compared to stackable or handle-less designs.
• Pro: Gift Potential: A well-designed mug with a side handle can make a thoughtful gift for coffee or tea lovers.
• Con: Price Fluctuations: While Starbucks’ own merchandise has a set price, secondary market prices for discontinued or rare mugs can be significantly higher.
• Pro: Enhanced Drinking Experience: For some, the tactile experience of holding a mug by its handle enhances the enjoyment of their beverage.
• Con: Not Always Practical for Travel: Mugs with side handles are generally not designed for travel and won’t fit in standard car cup holders.
• Pro: Durability (when cared for): Ceramic mugs are generally durable for everyday use, and a good handle adds to their robustness.
• Con: Cleaning Can Be Tricky: Narrow handles or intricate designs might require more careful cleaning to avoid damage or residue buildup.

Common misconceptions

• Misconception: All Starbucks mugs have side handles. This is untrue; Starbucks offers a variety of mug styles, including tumblers, travel cups, and handle-less ceramic cups.
• Misconception: If a mug is no longer online, it’s gone forever. Sometimes, items are restocked, or they might still be available in physical stores even after being removed from the website.
• Misconception: Starbucks constantly produces all its mug designs. Many designs are limited edition or seasonal and are not intended for long-term production.
• Misconception: You can only buy Starbucks mugs at Starbucks. While Starbucks is the primary retailer, discontinued or rare mugs can sometimes be found through third-party sellers or collectors.
• Misconception: All Starbucks mugs are microwave-safe. Always check the bottom of the mug or the product description, as some finishes or metallic accents can prevent microwave use.
• Misconception: City mugs are always available in their respective cities. While a good bet, availability of specific city mugs can vary even within the city they represent.
• Misconception: Starbucks makes all its own mugs. The company works with various manufacturers and designers to produce its merchandise.
• Misconception: Handleless mugs are inherently better for coffee. The choice between a handled and handleless mug is largely personal preference for comfort and style.
• Misconception: If a mug is popular, Starbucks will always keep making it. Popularity can lead to increased production for a time, but designs are often retired to introduce new items.
• Misconception: All ceramic mugs are the same. Variations in ceramic quality, glaze, and construction can affect durability and appearance.

FAQ

Q: Does Starbucks still sell coffee cups with side handles?

A: Yes, Starbucks does still offer coffee cups with side handles. However, their availability can be sporadic, as many are released as limited or seasonal items.

Q: Where can I find Starbucks mugs with side handles?

A: Your best bet is to check the Starbucks online store or visit your local Starbucks locations. Keep in mind that inventory varies by store and region.

Q: Are the Starbucks city mugs still available?

A: Many Starbucks city mugs remain available, particularly the more classic designs. However, specific city designs can be discontinued or become limited edition, so checking current stock is recommended.

Q: What should I do if I can’t find the specific mug I’m looking for?

A: You can try searching the Starbucks online store regularly, visiting different Starbucks locations, or looking at reputable third-party online marketplaces where collectors might resell items.

Q: Are there alternatives to Starbucks mugs with side handles?

A: Absolutely. Many other retailers, from home goods stores to online marketplaces, offer a wide variety of ceramic mugs with side handles in various styles and price points.

Q: How do I know if a Starbucks mug is safe for the microwave?

A: Always check the bottom of the mug for symbols or text indicating microwave safety. If unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and not place it in the microwave, especially if it has any metallic decorations.

Q: Are Starbucks mugs with side handles dishwasher safe?

A: Most ceramic mugs from Starbucks are dishwasher safe, but it’s always best to check the care instructions on the mug or its packaging. Handwashing is often recommended for preserving the longevity of designs.

Q: How often does Starbucks release new mug designs?

A: Starbucks introduces new merchandise, including mugs, throughout the year, often aligning with seasons and holidays. The frequency of new designs with side handles specifically can vary.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Specific product availability and pricing: For current stock and costs, check the Starbucks website or visit a store.
• Detailed care instructions for specific materials: Always refer to the product’s packaging or the bottom of the mug for material-specific cleaning advice.
• Comparisons of different coffee brewing methods: If you’re interested in how to brew coffee at home, explore guides on drip coffee, pour-over, French press, and espresso.
• Reviews of specific coffee bean brands: For information on coffee beans, look for resources dedicated to coffee tasting notes and origins.