To PSL or not to PSL: Navigating the pumpkin spice latte debate

November is weeks away, but a life altering choice is looming. With only two options in the running, tempers are flaring.

I try to remain neutral on controversial topics, people needed help and I was determined to find answers.

To PSL or not to PSL, THAT is the question.

For those who don’t know, “PSL” is the controversial drink which made its Starbuck’s debut in 2003: Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Americans fell head over heels in love with the cinnamon, pumpkin, nutmeg and clove infused coffee concoction. The anticipation of its return to the seasonal menu became a highly anticipated annual event.

Eventually, social media and core memories combined, turning innocent celebratory PSL selfies into a status symbol and rite of passage of sorts. The PSL selfie enjoyed a moment of popularity until haters of the simple joys in life began their behind-the-scenes sabotage. Enduring snide remarks and criticism, drinkers of PSL were bullied into obscurity by frustrated coffee snobs using phrases like “basic” who seemed equally angry that filters could be used for something other than coffee.

The PSL selfie silence is deafening.

Is PSL a “do” or “don’t”? I set off on a fact-finding mission Saturday morning.

My first stop: Red Banner Coffee. I ordered the iced “Somethin’ Pumpkin” and headed to a bench outside to investigate. The drink had a creamy hint of pumpkin and spices while maintaining a rich coffee flavor. Moments into my research, a soon to be friend grabbed a seat next to me and shared a beautiful story about overcoming adversity. Saturday was her first day of “freedom”, exploring the market with her furry companion and a cane for assistance. She exuded joy. If you’re a coffee purist but want to delve into the sweet side, start here. Bench convos are the best.

My second stop: El Kolibri Coffee. I ordered the iced PSL and talked to owner Karla about the PSL controversy. The Kolibri PSL had a more pronounced cinnamon flavor but was still cool and refreshing. Karla is a proud PSL advocate, though she notedly feels that with so many things being rushed in the world, she would like to see more respect in the observance of PSL season. Although they can make PSL all year long at El Kolibri, she prefers seasonal flavors “stay in their lane” to be properly enjoyed. I recommend you follow your PSL with a fresh empanada chaser.

My third stop: The Ground-A-Bout. Caleb and Maddie have picked up on my unapologetic idiosyncrasies by now. I order my latte hot for the added artistic treat. Maddie said she is 100% team PSL but added she is pretty much a living breathing ball of controversial choices. In fact, she proudly announced her love for pineapple on pizza and doesn’t care who knows. She’s been perfecting her swan technique recently, but this time around she surprised me with a cute celebratory pumpkin. My warm nutmeg strong PSL and had me daydreaming of soft jammies, warm blankets and a marathon of sappy sweet Hallmark movies that leave you seeking romance or thankful roadside assistance is a call away.

My fourth stop: Socials Café. Socials is hidden in the heart of downtown and is known for their array of fresh baked goods along with their specialty java drinks. I was feeling the PSL overload when “Nia” pointed me to their iced white chocolate pumpkin mocha instead of the traditional PSL. Nia is admittedly not team PSL, but she isn’t against it either. She shared the strain of living in a “house divided” as her husband is the PSL aficionado. She has learned to cope by recognizing the positive: PSL keeps the spice in their marriage. Giving him all the PSL means she gets dibs on everything chocolate. Everyone is a winner. Allen grudgingly came from the kitchen to humor us stating that PSL “is everything” and that fall makes him “spunky.” At least, that’s what I think he said. My handwriting is horrible. If you want a more dessert like indulgence, Social’s white chocolate pumpkin mocha is where it’s at.

My fifth stop: Grace Coffee + Café. My fourth stop sent me to my fifth and final stop of the day, and that was nothing short of divine intervention. Short on time, I loved the convenience of the drive through. One last iced PSL to end my adventure, and the name said it all. Grace.

Regardless of how we “vote,” Grace is the answer.

Mary Ann Castillo has over 50 years of eating experience with no plans to stop.