Starbucks Offers Free Refills, Brings Back Condiment Bar

Major Changes to In-Store Policies

With two major changes to its in-store policies, Starbucks is trying to get back to its pre-COVID ways.

On Jan. 27, the coffee giant announced that it is now offering free refills and bringing back the condiment bar.

The Return of the Condiment Bar

Starbucks says that starting today, customers will once again be able to add their own sweetener, milks and more to their beverage with the return of the condiment bar. For years, customers all over social media wondered about the disappearance of the condiment bar, which was removed during the height of the pandemic.

Free Refills for In-Store Customers

Plus, free refills are here. Customers ordering in-store will be asked if they would like to enjoy their order “for here” or “to go.” Folks who choose “for here” will have their drinks served in a ceramic mug, glass or a personal cup.

These customers will be able to enjoy free refills on hot brewed or iced coffee, or hot or iced tea during their visit. Starbucks says folks must have their first beverage served in a ceramic mug, glass or personal cup — no disposable vessels — to receive free refills.

Starbucks’ Other Recent Changes

Starbucks has made several policy changes since CEO Brian Niccol took the helm in September.

Earlier this month, Starbucks reversed its open-door policy, which allowed anyone to lounge in its cafes or use its restrooms without making a purchase. The policy was instated in 2018 after two Black men waiting for a friend were arrested for trespassing in a Philadelphia Starbucks, leading to public outcry.

“We want to ensure our spaces are prioritized for use by our customers,” Starbucks wrote on its website. “Our Coffeehouse Code of Conduct is something most retailers have and is designed to provide clarity that our spaces — including our cafes, patios and restrooms — are for use by customers and partners.”

In October, the chain announced it would be cutting down on the frequency of its discounts and promotions, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. It also announced it would no longer upcharge for nondairy milk after facing pressure for years from vegan and lactose-intolerant customers, as well as animal rights organizations.

Starbucks’ Spring Menu Preview

As it rolls out these changes to its code of conduct, Starbucks is previewing items coming in March — both new and returning.

The chain is introducing the Iced Cherry Chai and Jalapeño Chicken Pocket to its menu, as well as welcoming back its lavender beverages that made their debut in 2024 and were quite polarizing: Customers were either “OBSESSED” with the drinks or found them “DISGUSTING.”

Conclusion

With these changes, Starbucks is looking to get back to its pre-COVID ways and provide a more personalized experience for its customers. The return of the condiment bar and free refills for in-store customers are sure to be a hit with fans of the coffee giant.

FAQs

Q: What is the condiment bar?
A: The condiment bar is a station where customers can add their own sweetener, milks, and other toppings to their beverage.

Q: How do I get free refills?
A: To get free refills, customers must have their first beverage served in a ceramic mug, glass, or personal cup and choose to enjoy their order “for here.”

Q: What is Starbucks’ open-door policy?
A: Starbucks’ open-door policy allowed anyone to lounge in its cafes or use its restrooms without making a purchase. The policy was reversed in January 2025.

Q: What changes has Starbucks made to its menu?
A: Starbucks is introducing new items such as the Iced Cherry Chai and Jalapeño Chicken Pocket, as well as welcoming back its lavender beverages.