Former Starbucks Barista Reveals Answers to 6 Frequently Hidden Customer Queries

starbucks coffee latte
As a former Starbucks barista, I had the opportunity to answer a wide range of customer queries.

  • During my time as a Starbucks barista, I became accustomed to addressing customer inquiries.
  • The distinction between a latte and a cappuccino is quite simple, and it’s worth noting that some teas do contain caffeine. 
  • You are not required to use Starbucks’ terminology, but you can customize your food orders if desired.
What sets a latte apart from a cappuccino?

cappuccino drink from starbucks with foam art on time next to a pastry bag from starbucks
Cappuccinos consist of equal parts espresso, milk, and foam.

Prior to my employment at Starbucks, I was unaware of the differences between a latte and a cappuccino — my preference was simply the former. However, during training, I quickly grasped the distinctions. 

A latte has espresso at the base with a greater amount of steamed milk poured in, topped with a thin layer of frothy milk. On the other hand, a cappuccino comprises equal portions of espresso, steamed milk, and frothy milk.

To summarize, cappuccinos offer a bolder coffee flavor due to the lesser amount of milk mixed with the espresso.

Does tea not contain caffeine?

green tea cup
Some teas, like green tea, do contain caffeine.

If you have a high sensitivity to caffeine and believe that tea is a safe option, please remember that certain teas still contain caffeine — even if the caffeine content in brewed tea is only about half of that in a cup of coffee. 

If you are seeking a caffeinated recommendation, I always suggest Earl Grey or English breakfast, both of which are black teas. If you are experiencing a sore throat, the Honey Citrus Mint tea (also known as the medicine ball), which includes green and herbal teas, may be the perfect choice for you. 

If you truly desire a caffeine-free option, make sure to inquire about the available herbal tea options. 

I don’t enjoy coffee, what other options do I have?

starbucks frozen mango dragonfruit refresher
Starbucks offers a variety of refreshing non-coffee drinks.

While Starbucks is renowned for its coffee and espresso-based beverages, the menu extends far beyond that. 

If you are not fond of coffee-based drinks, here are some of my top recommendations: any of the teas, chai latte, matcha latte, hot chocolate, any of the crème Frappuccinos (with the exception of chocolate cookie crumble, which contains mocha sauce), or any of the refreshers. 

You can even simply order a glass of lemonade. 

Are Starbucks’ food items made in-house?

Starbucks food display
The food is not prepared in-house, despite appearances.

Do not be deceived by the food display. Unlike many independently owned coffee shops, Starbucks does not make its pastries and breakfast sandwiches in-house. 

If you have ever glanced behind the counter, you may have observed a barista unwrapping your food item. However, this does not mean you cannot tailor your orders. 

Before placing them in the toaster oven, we can still remove toppings from items like sandwiches if requested.

Can I request a small, medium, or large size?

A Starbucks barista prepares a drink at a Starbucks Coffee Shop location in New York.
The barista will likely understand your request even if you do not use Starbucks lingo.

When you opt for a small, medium, or large instead of a tall, grande, or venti, the barista may briefly appear puzzled as they mentally convert your order. They might even hold up the different cup sizes to ensure they comprehend correctly.

Rest assured, it is not imperative to use Starbucks’ terminology. 

Why can’t I get blonde or dark roast in the afternoon?

Starbucks Coffee Mugs
The brewed coffees need to be refreshed throughout the day.

If you crave a cup of blonde or dark roast drip coffee for your afternoon pick-me-up, chances are your Starbucks might not have it readily available.

All drip coffee is supposed to be discarded and freshly brewed every 30 minutes. Those two blends are typically less popular among customers, so to minimize waste, baristas usually only brew the standard Pike’s Place blend throughout the day. 

However, some locations may become familiar with their regular customers and be willing to make an exception. 

The same flexibility applies to self-serve creamers and milk. By midday, many locations consolidate the morning variety near the sugars and stir sticks. Nevertheless, baristas are usually more than happy to add some to your coffee at the counter.

Read the original article on Insider

Reference

Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
DMCA compliant image

Leave a Comment