why does starbucks call their drink a tall
1 Tall -- The 'Tall' is the other original Starbucks drink size. 2  When Starbucks started, the Tall was basically a Large. 3  Now, it's basically a Small. 4  In fact, if you order a 'Small' at Starbucks, you get a Tall. 5  A Starbucks Tall measures in at 12 US fluid ounces (350 milliliters). (The other was 'Tall.' Makes sense.) It's a mere eight fluid ounces (240 mL), and aside from the Demi (which is mostly a size espresso shots), it's the smallest drink size available at Starbucks. 2  For many people who drink coffee at home, six to eight ounces is a standard cup size.