Starbucks Ditches Filone, Introduces Soft Baguettes and Pumpkin Soupuccino

Starbucks Japan has announced that it is replacing its Filone sandwiches with baguettes. The Filone, an Italian sourdough bread with a crispy crust and airy crumb, was one of Starbucks' signature food items in Japan, appearing on the menu for around 18 years.

The new baguette sandwiches are made with a high hydration dough that makes them softer than before. According to those who tried the Ham & Gouda Cheese Baguette Sandwich (540 yen) and the Herb Sausage sandwich, the change in bread texture is noticeable, and it pairs well with the soft fillings.

Starbucks has also released a new drink, the Pumpkin Soupuccino, which is a frothy, cappuccino-like soup made with onion and celery, pumpkins sourced from Hokkaido, and spices like black pepper and nutmeg. The addition of maple flavour as a secret ingredient gives each sip a soft sweetness.