When not in school, I spend my days working in a small coffee shop. If there's one thing I have learned, it is that there are a lot of misconceptions about coffee. So, here are 10 things your barista isn't telling you!
1. A Macchiato Is Actually Only Around 5 Ounces
GiphyI definitely used to go to Starbucks and get a "Venti Iced Caramel Macchiato," but in reality… It is literally just a caramel latte. Starbucks just calls a latte, where the espresso and milk are not mixed together, a macchiato. If you want your drink to have milk on the bottom and espresso on the top, just ask for it "upside down!"
2. A Cappuccino With Milk Substitute Is Just not Going to Come Out As Good
GiphyVery sad, but true. Any milk, other than cow's milk, just doesn't foam the same way.
3. If Your Latte Is Not Hot Enough… Please Tell Us!
GiphyHaving a lukewarm latte is the worst, and sometimes it just doesn't come out hot enough.
4. Decaf Coffee Still Has a Good Amount of Caffeine
GiphyI don't know how to break this to you, but decaf coffee just has reduced caffeine rather than no caffeine.
5. There Is No Such Thing As An Iced Cappuccino
GiphyA cappuccino my definition is equal parts espresso, milk, and foam, and you cannot make milk foam without heating it up simultaneously.
6. Most Of The Time, There Are Only A Couple of People Working
GiphyMost of the time, there is no issue, but every once in a while, a group comes in with 15 drinks… We are trying our best to get you your coffee ASAP!
7. Cold Brew WILL Keep You Up All Night
GiphyI know this from personal experience… This is true even if caffeine doesn't usually affect you.
8. A Small and A Large Latte Often Have The Same Number of Espresso Shots
GiphyIt's just more or less steamed milk.
9. Chai Does Not Have Espresso Unless You Get It “DIrty”
GiphyIt is technically a tea, so if you want espresso make sure to request it!
10. We Love to Talk To You!
GiphyOne of the best parts of being a barista is the conversation with customers! If you want to, just come up and talk to us! It really helps the shift go by faster!
Whether you are a coffee connoisseur or you drink coffee simply for the caffeine, these tips will definitely help making your drink decision easier!