I have the HOTS for you: Ellianos’ “Iced Strawberry Mocha Dream” review

Italian-inspired Ellianos Coffee released their “Berry in Love” menu on Jan. 14 ahead of Valentine’s day. Stereotypical Valentine’s Day flavors are heavily featured with drinks such as the Iced Strawberry Mocha Dream, two variants of a raspberry white mocha, the strawberry and vanilla flavored Cloud Berry Edge and red velvet baked goods. But according to the Athens location staff, from this vast selection, the Iced Strawberry Mocha Dream comes out on top.

This decadent drink follows a simple structure; an iced latte laced with dark chocolate topped with strawberry cold foam. It’s available in four different sizes for slightly intimidating prices: small (16 oz.) $6.30, medium (18 oz.) $7.05, large (20 oz.) $7.40 and extra large (28 oz.) $9.25. 

Described on the Ellianos site as a “bold chocolatey mocha topped with sweet strawberry cold foam for a smooth, indulgent sip,” the taste stays true to its description. The flavor of the drink starts off with the taste of the mocha: a bitter and loud but smooth chocolate flavor. After that first taste, the flavor of the strawberry cold foam seeps through, with a faintly fresh greeting. Finally, the sip ends back at base one: chocolate, though less bitter as it disappears behind the taste of coffee. After sipping for a long time, the strawberry taste starts to disappear, leaving a simple but indeed bold mocha.

The Iced Strawberry Mocha Dream is a tasteful drink that stands apart without destroying the sanctity of a classic mocha, with something as simple as foamed strawberry flavor. But despite differentiating itself well, it’s still just too simple for a base price of $6.30.