Starbucks, a brand synonymous with mornings, meetings, and me-time. As diverse as the crowd that walks into a Starbucks store is the spectrum of drinks they walk out with. Yet, there’s a secret menu, not of beverages, but of drinks that baristas themselves seldom order. Curious? Let’s sip into this exclusive list!
1. The Time-Consuming S’mores Frappuccino
When you think of a S’mores Frappuccino, it’s all about gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and that sweet graham cracker crunch. But did you know that this drink is one of the most time-consuming beverages for baristas to whip up? Each layer requires precision and patience. It’s no surprise that after making dozens of these a day, baristas might not be in the mood to craft one for themselves. Insider shares this tidbit from a former Starbucks employee, highlighting the drink’s complexity.
Moreover, the perfect S’mores Frappuccino consistency is hard to achieve. Too much of one ingredient and the balance is thrown off. Baristas appreciate a good drink, but when it’s their break, they might opt for something simpler and quicker.
2. Watered-Down ‘Shaken’ Espresso
If you’ve been to Starbucks recently, you might’ve noticed the “shaken” espresso on the menu, popularized by social media. However, a barista’s expert taste palate can detect the watered-down quality of this beverage. According to a HuffPost report, many baristas avoid this drink due to its diluted taste. They know that a good espresso should pack a punch, and “shaken” just doesn’t hit the mark.
The process involves shaking the espresso over ice, which can cause premature cooling and dilution. While it may be a hit on Instagram, baristas prefer their espresso strong and full-bodied.
3. Overly Complicated Custom Orders
Have you ever stood in line and overheard an order that sounded like a tongue-twister? “Double shot, half-caff, no foam, almond milk, two pumps of caramel, one pump vanilla, iced but not too much ice…” You get the gist. Quora users discuss how Starbucks baristas feel about these intricate orders. And while they’re trained to craft any beverage, it’s not something they’d typically order for themselves.
Baristas value the essence of coffee. They appreciate the subtle notes and flavors in a well-made brew. Overly complicated orders often mask the coffee’s true taste, and baristas, being coffee connoisseurs, might prefer something that showcases the coffee itself.
4. Cappuccinos with Too Much Foam
A good cappuccino is a delicate balance of espresso, steamed milk, and foam. However, some orders demand an excessive amount of foam, which can overshadow the rich taste of the espresso. As highlighted by a former barista, these orders can be a bit annoying to make and don’t necessarily showcase the drink’s potential.
Too much foam can make the drink feel airy and less satisfying. While everyone has their personal preference, baristas know the magic of a perfectly balanced cappuccino and might steer clear of the extra foam.
5. The “Secret” Menu Items
Everyone loves a good secret, and the Starbucks “secret” menu is no exception. Drinks like the “Cotton Candy Frappuccino” or the “Butterbeer Latte” might intrigue customers, but did you know these aren’t official Starbucks beverages? Baristas often have to look up the ingredients, and with no standard recipe, consistency can vary. The Eater delves into how these secret menus can make restaurant workers’ lives a tad challenging.
While it’s fun to try something new, baristas themselves might stick to the tried and true menu items. After all, consistency is key in a good cup of joe.
6. Anything with Too Many Syrups
Syrups can enhance a drink, adding a touch of sweetness or a burst of flavor. However, when an order calls for multiple pumps of various syrups, it can result in a sugar overload. Not to mention, the original coffee flavor gets lost in the mix. A Reddit thread reveals some of the favorite drinks baristas order, and seldom do they go overboard with the syrups.
While sweetness is subjective, baristas, with their refined palettes, might opt for a drink where the coffee is the star, not overshadowed by excessive sweetness.
7. Drinks That Are Too Hot or Too Cold
Temperature plays a pivotal role in the taste of a beverage. Order a drink too hot, and it can scald the tongue, masking the coffee’s nuanced flavors. Too cold, and the richness of the drink can get subdued. Baristas understand this delicate balance and might avoid extremes. They’re trained to steam milk to the optimal temperature, ensuring the best flavor profile in every sip.
While everyone has their comfort zone when it comes to beverage temperature, baristas know the sweet spot that brings out the best in coffee and might stick to that range.
8. Drinks That Are Overly Milky
Milk can add a creamy texture to a coffee drink, but when there’s too much of it, the coffee can taste diluted. Lattes, for instance, are mostly milk with a shot of espresso. However, some orders might call for extra milk, turning the drink into a milky beverage with a hint of coffee. Baristas, who love the robust flavor of coffee, might not be fans of such diluted concoctions.
It’s all about balance. A harmonious blend of milk and coffee ensures that neither overshadows the other, and the resulting beverage is a delightful symphony of flavors.
9. Off-Season Specials
Ever craved a Pumpkin Spice Latte in April or an Iced Peppermint Mocha in August? While Starbucks might accommodate such off-season requests, these drinks are crafted to complement the seasons. A Martlet article talks about Starbucks fall menu items that are best enjoyed during the chilly months. Baristas, being in tune with the seasonal vibes, might prefer to enjoy these specials during their intended seasons.
There’s a reason why certain flavors are associated with specific times of the year. They evoke memories, feelings, and ambiance that align with the season. Baristas, with their love for coffee and its nuances, might cherish this seasonal alignment.
In conclusion, while Starbucks offers a plethora of options for every palate, baristas, with their behind-the-counter insights, have their unique preferences. The next time you’re at Starbucks, maybe strike up a conversation with your barista. You might just discover a new favorite or learn to appreciate your usual order even more!
