10 Things Customers Do That Annoy Baristas

Baristas are patient people. They have to be. They stand behind the counter all day, making espressos, frothing milk and making sure every cup of coffee is perfect.

But let's face it, some things customers do test our patience. And no, we're not talking about a complicated order.

Would you like a half café flat white with oat milk and a pinch of cinnamon?

No problem. It’s the little things, the moments when we take a deep breath and remind ourselves: it’s just coffee…

If you’ve ever worked behind a bar, you’ll recognize this. If you’re a customer, you might gain some insight into how to make your next visit to the pub go more smoothly, for both of you.

Because at the end of the day, we love making coffee, and we want you to enjoy it!

So… just don’t do these things:

1. Calling While Ordering

You wouldn’t ignore a waiter in a restaurant, would you? So why would you ignore a barista?

Placing an order while in the middle of a phone call is not only rude, it slows everything down.

The barista tries to take your order correctly and if you are not focused, they have to guess what you mean.

Do you really need to make a call? Step aside, finish your conversation and then order. Your latte won't run away.

2. Asking for 'Regular Coffee' at a Specialty Coffee Bar

Specialty coffee bars servespecialty coffee.

So if you ask for “just a coffee,” your barista will need a few more details.

Would you like a filter coffee?

An espresso?

A long black?

If you have any doubts, just ask. They will be happy to help you find something you like.

But if you say “just coffee” and then get irritated by the extra questions, it's not their fault.

3. Complaints About the Price

We get it. You can get a coffee for a euro somewhere else.

But you're not at a gas station.

You are in a specialty coffee bar, where you get high quality coffee, made by someone who knows what they are doing.

Good coffee costs money.

The beans, the equipment, the training, everything counts. So instead of complaining about the price, enjoy knowing that your coffee is made with care.

4. Tap Your Card While We're Still Busy

There's something about that impatient tap-tap-tap of a debit card on the counter that makes any barista twitch.

We see you. We know you're waiting. But the coffee isn't ready yet.

Give it a moment. A good espresso takes time. And if you order a pour over? Trust the process.

5. Wanting a piping hot latte and then complaining that it tastes burnt

Milk has an ideal temperature.

If we froth it too hot, the sweetness disappears and a bitter taste remains.

If your barista serves the milk at the correct temperature and you say it's “not hot enough,” we can make it hotter, but know that it will taste worse.

Want it really steaming hot? No problem. Just don't come back and complain that it's burnt.

6. Leaving Your Trash Behind While the Trash Can Is Within Reach

Baristas are not your mother. If you finish your coffee and there is a trash can nearby, use it.

Leaving empty cups, napkins and sugar packets lying around is simply unnecessary.

A small effort, but it makes a big difference.

7. Changing Your Order Once It Has Been Made

Changing your mind is fine. But if your drink is already ready, it's too late.

Asking for “a little oat milk with it” or “I actually want it decaf” means we have to start over.

And no, we can't just "adjust" an espresso once it's been made. That's not how it works.

8. Ignoring the Menu and Ordering Something We Don't Have

Not every coffee shop has caramel syrup. Not everywhere makes frappés.

Specialty coffee is about quality, not an endless menu.

If it's not on the menu, we probably don't have it.

So take a quick look at the menu before you order. It will save you time.

9. Don't look for your wallet at the checkout

You've been standing in line for a while. You knew you had to pay.

And yet you only start searching when it's time to pay, as if your bank card has suddenly disappeared into another dimension.

A little preparation goes a long way.

10. Treat Your Barista Like a Vending Machine

They are people, not robots.

A simple “good morning” or “thank you” goes a long way.

We remember the friendly customers. We also remember the people who treat us like we don't exist.

Want your barista to go the extra mile for you? Be nice. It's that simple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is coffee more expensive in a specialty coffee bar?

Because quality costs money .

Specialty coffee means high-quality beans, a precise roasting process and expert preparation.

The price reflects that.

What is the best way to order if I am new to specialty coffee?

Just ask!

Don't know the difference between a flat white and a cappuccino? No problem.

Baristas would rather help you find something you like than have you just order something and be disappointed.

Why does my latte taste different at a specialty coffee bar?

Because it is made well. Large chains often heat milk too hot and use inferior beans.

Specialty coffee bars focus on balance, texture and taste.

Is it rude to ask for sugar?

Not at all! If that's how you like your coffee, go for it. But don't be surprised if we don't have any syrups.

Conclusion

Baristas love making coffee for people who appreciate it. A little awareness goes a long way.

Being friendly, paying attention when ordering, and respecting the process makes for a better experience for everyone.

So the next time you step into a specialty coffee bar, take a moment. Look at the menu, say hello to the barista, and enjoy the feeling of someone carefully making you a great cup of coffee.

Trust us, it really matters!