Starbucks Princi Kitchen

Starbucks Princi Kitchen was a collaboration between Starbucks and the renowned Milanese bakery, Princi, aiming to bring authentic Italian artisanal baked goods to the United States. Established in 1986 by Rocco Princi, the bakery gained acclaim for its high-quality breads, pastries, and pizzas.

In 2016, Starbucks became an investor and global licensee of Princi, integrating its offerings into select Starbucks Reserve locations and standalone stores.

Location

The Princi Kitchen in Chicago, IL, USA, located at 1000 W. Randolph Street in the West Loop neighborhood, opened in 2018. This location featured a wide array of Italian-inspired menu items, including:

• Breakfast Options: Cornetti (Italian croissants) topped with almonds or filled with raspberry jam, baked eggs in spicy tomato sauce, and steel-cut oats with Italian marmalade.
• Lunch Selections: Soups, salads, focaccia sandwiches, pizza al taglio (Roman-style pizza by the slice), and hot entrées.
• Afternoon and Evening Treats: A selection of Italian cakes and tarts, such as the Princina, made from a chocolate shortbread crust filled with ganache and dusted with cocoa powder.
• A curated selection of Italian wines, cocktails, and digestivi during the evening hours, providing an authentic Italian dining experience.

Operational Changes

In 2021, Starbucks announced the closure of its standalone Princi locations in Chicago and Seattle, with operations ceasing on September 3, 2021. The decision was part of a strategic reevaluation of the Starbucks Reserve business.

However, Princi's artisanal baked goods continue to be available at Starbucks Reserve Roasteries and select Reserve stores worldwide, including locations in Chicago, New York, Seattle, Shanghai, Milan, and Tokyo.

Legacy and Continuing Partnership

While the standalone Princi Kitchen in Chicago has closed, the legacy of its authentic Italian offerings persists through Starbucks' ongoing partnership with Princi.

This ensures that customers can still enjoy these high-quality baked goods in various Starbucks Reserve locations.