I’m usually perplexed as what to write when I start a new website, blog, homepage, or the like. Thus, instead of permitting my thoughts to meander around, I will hone them in and focus them on all things coffee.

You see, working at Starbucks presents the simultaneous blessing and curse of working with the public. It offers a venue for great conversations, connections, and networking. However, it also makes this barista vulnerable to many conjectures about something he’s devoted a year and a half to perfecting. It also opens the door to many questions and answers such as, “I didn’t order a grande latte!!!” “Well, that’s not your drink then.”

Real life scenario (let’s suppose the customer’s name is Sam):

BaristaJim is making several drinks one moderately busy afternoon and places a fresh drink on the handoff platform.

BaristaJim: “Are you waiting for a caramel macchiato,sir?”
Sam: “Yes.”
B: “Well, here you go!”
S: “Ok, thanks.”
*Sam briefly leaves, takes a sip, then returns*
S: “Is this a caramel macchiato?”
B: “Yes, sir, it is.”
*Sam looks a little shocked and places the drink back on the handoff platform. A few more seconds go by and I inquire as to what Sam is waiting for.*
S: “I’m waiting for a caramel macchiato.”
B: “Well, that’s it right there.” (Pointing to the same drink)
S: “Oh, ok. Thanks!”

More stories, taste reviews, and reports strange happenings to come.