If you’re looking to venture beyond the usual coffee stops, there’s one Japanese homegrown coffeehouse chain that deserves your attention. Known for its warm atmosphere and creative drinks, Tully’s Coffee has stepped into the spotlight this summer with a new release to celebrate its 28th anniversary.
On 6 August, the brand launched a special Vanilla Affogato Shake—a drink that promises to capture both the spirit of celebration and the essence of Tully’s signature style.
But here’s the real question coffee lovers want answered: how does Tully’s new creation stack up against Starbucks’ popular affogato option?
Tully’s vs. Starbucks – A Coffee Showdown
For years, Tully’s Coffee has quietly competed in the shadow of global giant Starbucks, often attracting loyalists who value its local charm and refined approach. This time, however, Tully’s Vanilla Affogato Shake seemed like a contender ready to challenge the mermaid brand’s dominance.
To find out, we decided to compare it head-to-head with Starbucks’ Espresso Affogato Frappuccino. Both drinks fall into the indulgent coffee-dessert category, but each offers a distinctly different taste experience.
First Impressions – Vanilla Affogato Shake
Visually, Tully’s Vanilla Affogato Shake looks similar to Starbucks’ version—creamy, inviting, and topped with rich espresso. But one sip quickly revealed its unique personality.
This drink starts with a smooth vanilla-flavoured milkshake base, topped with a shot of freshly brewed espresso.
The vanilla’s gentle sweetness blends seamlessly with the bold coffee, creating a balanced and mellow flavour. At the bottom of the cup, a surprise awaits—thick coffee jelly, adding a fun, chewy texture that contrasts with the creamy shake.
The overall result is a silky, easy-to-drink dessert beverage that feels indulgent without being overpowering. At 685 yen (US$4.65), it’s slightly cheaper than Starbucks’ rival, which is priced at 695 yen.
The Starbucks Espresso Affogato Frappuccino
Originally a limited-time treat, the Espresso Affogato Frappuccino at Starbucks became so popular that it earned a permanent spot on the menu. One taste made it clear why.
This drink is crafted around a ristretto shot—a short, strong espresso pull—enhanced with dissolved brown sugar and a hint of white mocha syrup.
The result is a rich, full-bodied coffee flavour with a more complex balance of sweetness and bitterness. Compared to Tully’s shake, it’s punchier and bolder, appealing to those who prefer strong coffee notes in their dessert drinks.
Smoothness vs. Complexity – Which One Wins?
The Vanilla Affogato Shake from Tully’s is smoother and lighter, making it easy to drink even for non-coffee enthusiasts. Its more limited flavour range allows the vanilla and espresso to shine without competition from too many additional ingredients.
In contrast, Starbucks’ Espresso Affogato Frappuccino delivers layered flavours, offering a wide spectrum from sweet to bitter in a single sip. This complexity makes it exciting for those who enjoy exploring the intricate profiles of coffee-based drinks.
The Calorie & Health Angle
For the health-conscious, Tully’s creation has a clear edge. At just 338 calories compared to Starbucks’ 440 calories, the Vanilla Affogato Shake offers a lighter indulgence. The smooth and creamy texture makes it feel just as satisfying without the extra caloric load.
The Anniversary Exclusive – Bearful Hug Me Bottle
Tully’s is adding extra charm to this anniversary release with an adorable Bearful Hug Me Bottle. This limited-edition drinkware can only be purchased alongside one of their 28th anniversary drinks and costs an additional 1,680 yen.
Its playful design makes it not just a keepsake but also the cutest way to enjoy an affogato in Japan right now. Given the exclusivity and limited stock, it’s an added incentive for coffee lovers to choose Tully’s over Starbucks this season.
Why This Release Matters for Tully’s
For much of the year, Tully’s quietly operates under Starbucks’ shadow in Japan’s competitive coffee market. However, the launch of the Vanilla Affogato Shake and the Bearful Hug Me Bottle has given the brand a moment in the spotlight.
It’s not just about creating a drink; it’s about offering a unique experience that blends taste, texture, and collectibility. This approach resonates with customers looking for something beyond the predictable offerings of larger chains.
If you’re a coffee lover—or even someone who enjoys dessert-style drinks—this is the perfect time to step off the beaten path and try Tully’s Vanilla Affogato Shake. With its mellow flavour, lower calories, and playful coffee jelly twist, it offers a refreshing alternative to Starbucks’ bold and complex Espresso Affogato Frappuccino.
Pair it with the limited-edition Bearful Hug Me Bottle, and you’ll have both a tasty treat and a charming souvenir of Tully’s 28th anniversary celebration.
Just remember—this drink is available only while stocks last, so make sure to grab yours before it disappears.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does the Tully’s Vanilla Affogato Shake cost?
The Vanilla Affogato Shake is priced at 685 yen (US$4.65), making it slightly cheaper than Starbucks’ equivalent drink.
2. What makes Tully’s Vanilla Affogato Shake different from Starbucks’ version?
Tully’s shake is smoother, lighter, and includes coffee jelly for texture, while Starbucks’ drink is bolder and more complex in flavour.
3. Is the Bearful Hug Me Bottle available separately?
No, the Bearful Hug Me Bottle can only be purchased with one of Tully’s limited-edition anniversary drinks and costs an extra 1,680 yen.
