Barista Terminology | Episode 17: Understanding Customer Preferences & Making Recommendations
Dubai – Qahwa World
Qahwa World continues its “Barista Terminology” series, reaching the seventeenth episode of this educational journey dedicated to enhancing baristas’ professional and cultural knowledge. In this episode, we explore and analyze a key aspect of the barista’s role: understanding customers and guiding them toward the right coffee choice.
A skilled barista does more than prepare excellent coffee — they also act as a guide who helps customers find a drink that suits their taste. Understanding preferences and offering thoughtful recommendations can turn occasional visitors into loyal regulars.
Today, we highlight 8 essential duties every barista should master and consistently apply:
1. Ask the Right Questions
Start with simple, open-ended questions such as:
• “Do you prefer a light or strong drink?”
• “Do you enjoy sweeter flavors or stronger ones?”
• “Do you usually take your coffee with milk?”
2. Understand Flavor Profiles
Match drinks to taste preferences:
• Fruity & light → Drip-brew coffees from African origins
• Bold & rich → Espresso-based drinks or darker roasts
• Creamy & sweet → Milk-based drinks like flat white or latte
3. Recommend Based on Time & Mood
• Morning: Balanced and energizing drinks such as cappuccino or filtered coffee
• Afternoon: Cold and refreshing choices like iced coffee or cold brew
• Evening: Decaf or low-acidity options
4. Offer Customization Options
Explain available adjustments:
• Milk types: cow’s milk, oat, soy, almond
• Sweetness levels: none, light, regular
• Temperature: extra hot, warm
• Strength: single or double shot, ristretto, lungo
5. Share Light Information
When the customer is curious, offer brief and helpful insights:
• “This coffee is from Yemen and has grape-like acidity.”
• “We use a slow brewing method to enhance clarity.”
6. Respect Individual Taste
There is no “wrong” taste in coffee. A professional barista respects personal preferences and avoids judging sweetened or flavored choices.
7. Recommend Signature Drinks
If the café has a special drink, highlight it with confidence:
• “We have a honey-cinnamon latte that is one of our most popular drinks.”
8. Remember Regular Customers
When a customer returns, try to recall their previous order. This adds a personal touch and strengthens customer loyalty.
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