Behind every perfect cup of happiness, there is a Barista
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone involved in the coffee supply chain, from makers to baristas. Over 90% of cafes were forced to temporarily close their doors due to a significant drop in business. While some coffee shops were merely surviving, the sudden loss of business devastated a few cafe owners.
The impact of the pandemic not only affected the cafes but also the people who work there. Thousands of baristas around the world have either lost their jobs or are facing reduced pay. Though times are tough, customers are doing their share to support cafes and baristas. After all, baristas play a key role in enhancing the profile of a cafe.
The Life of a Barista
Barista – the coffee artisans who create stunning espresso drinks in cafes. While baristas were once mainly associated with Italy, the expansion of large coffee chains and global trends have greatly popularized coffee culture worldwide. From crafting signature drinks to participating in barista competitions, the profile of a barista is rising as many people love to indulge in this challenging and artistic profile.
However, being a barista entails much more than simply pressing buttons on a coffee machine or creating visually appealing designs.
For many baristas, the day starts early as they make sure all the equipment is in top shape before the orders start coming in. This involves not just cleaning the espresso machines, but also ensuring they have all the necessary supplies in reach. From sourcing the right coffee beans to achieving the perfect grind and serving in the appropriate cups and saucers, baristas stay busy throughout their shift. Beyond the technical aspects, a barista’s passion also lies in providing exceptional customer service. After all, there’s a sense of fulfillment in serving others well.
5 key ingredients that baristas use to give you that perfect cup of joy.
As baristas, they possess five essential elements that ensure our coffee not only looks fantastic but also tastes delightful.
1. Pride
A barista takes joy in making customers happy, delighting in sharing their skills with every person who walks in. This not only brings them fulfillment but also serves as motivation to continually improve. Therefore, when they craft a cup of coffee, it’s not just a beverage but a masterpiece they take pride in creating.
2. Passion
Passion – A powerful enthusiasm for what we do. For a barista, it’s what drives them to rise and shine each morning, eager to serve up that perfect cup of coffee. You will always find something about coffee that excites you and makes you deliver more – by learning, improving, and performing. From mastering latte art to brewing the perfect cup, it’s this passion that sets baristas apart and ensures they bring their absolute best to the table.
3. Diligence
Understanding the ideal brew ratios and even something as simple as preheating coffee cups can make all the difference in exceeding expectations. It’s the combination of these skills and attention to detail in delivering the perfect flavor and taste that truly distinguishes a great barista.
4. Consistency
Putting in the effort without maintaining consistency is like a spark that quickly fades away. However, this doesn’t mean you should stifle your creativity. The key is to let your imagination run wild, experiment with brew ratios, and create new latte art, all while ensuring that each cup you serve maintains a consistent quality.
5. Research
As the coffee industry keeps changing, baristas are always on the lookout for new information. They dedicate time to research, constantly seeking to improve their skills and stay informed about the latest trends. Whether it’s exploring different coffee beans or experimenting with flavor combinations, baristas are in the learning process to stay updated and motivated.
