By Emi Moss

Staff Writer

    The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and coffee shops are rolling out their cozy creations. When I think of fall drinks, I immediately think of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, specifically from Starbucks. This year, I started wondering what other drinks came out during the fall. Supporting our local businesses is important, so all of the spots I reviewed are local to Winston-Salem! I visited Chad’s Chai, DeBeen Espresso, Camino Bakery, and Dough Joes.

Autumn Fog – DeBeen Espresso

    Tucked away in the heart of downtown’s Innovation Quarter, DeBeen Espresso offers a cozy and creative atmosphere that’s great for studying, working, or catching up with friends. Seating can be limited, though, so it’s best to grab your drink to go. I tried their Autumn Fog. It is a seasonal twist on the classic London Fog, which is a hot, tea-based drink that consists of Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and a sweetener. Instead of the traditional Earl Grey, this version features orange spice tea with hints of vanilla and spiced maple, creating a warm and fragrant blend. The steamed milk foam adds a layer that softens the first few sips. The flavor deepens and becomes sweeter as you reach the bottom of the cup. 

Get Figgy With It – Chad’s Chai

    Chad’s Chai is a well-known brand around Winston Salem. They always come up with fun seasonal drinks. This fall, they offered Honeyflower Latte, Spiced Apple Chai-der, Pumpkin Pie Chai, Campfire Latte, and Get Figgy With It. I am a huge fan of matcha, so I knew I had to try Get Figgy With It. On the menu, it is listed as a “matcha latte with house-made pear and fig syrup.” Get Figgy With It is as fun as it sounds. The drink starts out tasting like fig, but as you keep sipping, subtle pear notes emerge. It’s a surprisingly smooth matcha that’s just sweet enough to take the edge off any bitterness. If you’ve ever thought matcha wasn’t for you, this fruit-forward take might change your mind.

Beetlejuice Punch – Dough Joes

    Located in historic Reynolda Village, Dough Joe’s is best known for its warm, melt-in-your-mouth donuts. This fall, the Beetlejuice Punch deserves some attention too. Served iced in a 16-oz cup, this drink looks like a classic cider but offers something a little different. It is a sparkling apple cider with a subtle ginger twist. The perfect balance is what makes it stand out. It is refreshing yet cozy with not too much sweetness nor too much spice. The ginger is noticeable but not overpowering, leaving a crisp, cider-like aftertaste that can only be described as perfect for the season. While it’s not a showstopper, it’s a fun and refreshing take on a fall classic.

Apple Chai Latte & Pomegranate Spritzer – Camino Bakery

    Camino Bakery’s fall menu in downtown offers unique takes on seasonal drinks. I had such a hard time choosing between all five drinks, I ended up grabbing two. The Apple Chai Latte brings together two comforting classics: apple cider and chai tea. It’s made with oat milk and what Camino Bakery calls their “magical syrup,” creating a smooth and creamy texture. The flavor leans heavily on the chai, which can be a bit overpowering, slightly masking the apple flavor. It’s not a particularly sweet drink, making it a better fit for those who prefer subtle, spiced flavors. It’s available hot or iced; I got it iced. Though not my personal favorite, it embodies that cozy feel that many people look for in a fall drink.

    The Pomegranate Spritzer, however, is where Camino truly shines. While it may not scream “fall,” this drink proves that seasonal menus don’t have to rely on pumpkin or spice to be memorable. Made with pomegranate syrup, soda water, and a hint of lemon, it is only served iced and in a 16-oz cup. The result is a refreshingly sweet and tangy combination that’s light and bubbly. Tart in the best possible way, the spritzer is both energizing and satisfying. It has earned its place as my top pick out of all the drinks I reviewed.

    This fall, trade your usual order for something new. Winston-Salem’s coffee shops are full of creative takes on the season. Some cozy, some refreshing, all worth trying. No matter your taste, there’s a local drink out there waiting to make your autumn a little warmer.