A single coffee order nearly pushed one barista over the edge, illustrating why “extra hot” is a questionable request. Behind the frustration lies a simple truth: some beverage modifications create unnecessary complications—and there are better ways to get a steaming cup of joe.
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The Coffee Order That Made Me Want To Quit My Job As A Barista
Photo by The Takeout
Key Takeaways:
- One coffee order sparked a barista’s desire to quit.
- The “extra hot” request poses logical issues, according to the barista.
- If you need a warm drink, there are more effective ways to order it.
- The Takeout’s piece highlights customer service challenges.
- Coffee temperature can be a surprisingly contentious subject in cafés.
A Frustrating Request
The barista at the heart of this story reached a breaking point over one simple phrase: “extra hot coffee.” In a piece published by The Takeout, the author recounts how a particular beverage request can stir up deep displeasure for those behind the espresso machine. The frustration goes beyond inconvenience—according to this barista, there is solid reasoning behind why serving coffee at extremely high temperatures isn’t generally advisable.
Why ‘Extra Hot’ Is Problematic
When a customer insists on pushing the limits of their drink’s temperature, it can compromise the flavor of the coffee. As reported, there’s a logical explanation: extremely hot liquid may scorch the coffee or mask its nuanced taste. The barista’s story suggests these temperature extremes can also become time-consuming during a busy shift, creating both safety risks and efficiency setbacks.
Better Ways to Order
Despite the barista’s stand against “extra hot,” The Takeout’s piece mentions there are alternative methods if a customer still wants a piping-hot beverage. Slight adjustments in how milk is steamed or how coffee is served could achieve a higher temperature without risking flavor loss or burnout—both for the beans and the barista.
A Glimpse into the Barista’s World
While this single request was enough to push the barista to consider quitting, the frustration reveals greater truths about the world of customer service. Baristas often handle countless personal preferences, and some demands are trickier than others. The Takeout article underscores that being mindful of how a drink is prepared may ease the tension at the coffee bar—and help avoid the cold shoulder from the those working behind it.
